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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.

Worse after diagnosis?

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Bridgewater, NJ

Im in the process of getting an official diagnosis, RNS next week, but since my occular symptoms have improved a lot since starting pyridostigmine my neurologist said I probably do have MG. Since we talked about MG even being a possibility 2 months ago I feel like im noticing a lot more signs that line up with it or at least noticing them more frequently. Things like easy arm fatigue, fatigue with chewing or swallowing, decreased walking speed from over all fatigue, etc. I know i felt them… read more

August 14
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A MGteam Member

Before I was even diagnosed with MG I did notice fatigue and being tired especially at work and after dinner I’d fall asleep in the chair watching rv for maybe 15 min. But who knows maybe I had other subtle signs and just never noticed them??? I do know about 2 months after my femur surgery thats when every symptom started and I thought I was having a stroke. It’s been almost a year and I’ve come along way I still have leg weakness, bowel issues at times but all in all the meds have helped with all my other MG symptoms and I had every one except breathing issues.

August 15
MGteam

Is it possible that getting a myasthenia gravis diagnosis has made symptoms feel more noticeable or intense? This is actually a really common experience — and it makes complete sense.

Before a diagnosis, many people push through symptoms without fully registering them. Once there's a name for what's happening, the brain Show Full Answer

Is it possible that getting a myasthenia gravis diagnosis has made symptoms feel more noticeable or intense? This is actually a really common experience — and it makes complete sense.

Before a diagnosis, many people push through symptoms without fully registering them. Once there's a name for what's happening, the brain naturally starts paying closer attention. It's not necessarily that things are getting worse — it's that awareness has sharpened. That said, MG symptoms can genuinely fluctuate, and there are known triggers that can cause them to worsen, including:

- Stress — emotional stress is a well-documented trigger
- Infections — even minor ones can cause a flare
- Heat — high temperatures make muscle-nerve communication harder
- Fatigue — being overtired can amplify weakness
- Certain medications — some can make MG symptoms worse
- Surgery or medical procedures

Keeping a journal to track what happens before symptoms worsen can help identify personal patterns to discuss with a care team. It's also worth knowing that the emotional weight of a new diagnosis can itself affect how symptoms feel. Stress and anxiety can genuinely worsen MG symptoms physically, creating a cycle that's tough to break.

If symptoms feel like they're significantly worsening — especially trouble breathing, swallowing, or holding the head up — that's worth flagging with a doctor promptly, as those are signs that need timely attention.

August 14

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Worse after diagnosis?

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Bridgewater, NJ
August 14

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