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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Las Vegas, NV

I have had problems with my memory

May 20
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members responded to a question about how myasthenia gravis affects the brain and memory, with the overwhelming agreement being that brain... Read more

Members responded to a question about how myasthenia gravis affects the brain and memory, with the overwhelming agreement being that brain fog, forgetfulness, and word-finding difficulties are very real and shared experiences. Several members described practical workarounds that have helped them cope, including sticky notes, small notebooks, phone calendars, doing one task at a time, and word puzzles to sharpen memory over time. A recurring theme was the frustration of being dismissed by doctors, the emotional relief of knowing others share the same struggles, and the encouragement to find what personally works best.

A MGteam Member

Isn’t that the truth Jill and i was relieved I didn’t have a stroke

May 23
A MGteam Member

Brain fog is real! Find your work arounds. I use my calendar a LOT, for med reminders, chore reminders (I do my home cleaning over the course of a couple of days), and I plan a 10 min break every hour (hydrate, sit down). I thought retirement would be less planning🤪 There is a lot that goes into living with MG!🤔❤️🙏

May 23
A MGteam Member

I forget things so easy like I'll open a cupboard and forget to close it , open a drawer and get something out and not close it , got to write everything down as I think of it or its lost in space , I leave myself notes all over ,I went and got some post it notes work good , can't change things around because I'll never find them again, but I found out putting a notebook on your kitchen counter is so helpful❤

May 20
MGteam

It's really common to experience memory and thinking difficulties with MG — you're definitely not alone in this. Many MGteam members share similar experiences, like forgetting names, losing their train of thought, or finding that mental activity feels just as draining as physical activity.

Research shows that around 60% of Show Full Answer

It's really common to experience memory and thinking difficulties with MG — you're definitely not alone in this. Many MGteam members share similar experiences, like forgetting names, losing their train of thought, or finding that mental activity feels just as draining as physical activity.

Research shows that around 60% of people with MG report memory difficulties. Interestingly, studies found no direct link between how severe someone's MG is and how much memory trouble they experience. Here's why MG can affect the brain:

- AChR antibodies (the immune proteins that attack your muscles) may also reduce acetylcholine activity in the brain — the same chemical that supports learning, memory, and thinking
- Muscle weakness and fatigue can cause subtle changes in the brain areas that control those muscles
- MG flare-ups tend to make brain fog and memory issues worse
- Some MG treatments, like corticosteroids, can also contribute to memory problems as a side effect

Brain fog and mental fatigue can seriously affect quality of life, so it's worth raising these symptoms with your neurologist. They may be able to adjust your treatment or suggest strategies to help manage it.

May 20
A MGteam Member

Word games like crossword puzzles have helped me. I started with easy games, then graduated to harder puzzles. My memory is much better.

May 24

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