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Myasthenic Crisis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is a myasthenic crisis?

A myasthenic crisis is a severe form of myasthenia gravis. It is a life-threatening condition that happens if the muscles you use for breathing become very weak. It can cause severe breathing problems and lead to lung failure.

What increases my risk for a myasthenic crisis?

A myasthenic crisis may occur for no known reason. Anything that worsens your myasthenia gravis may lead to a myasthenic crisis. Any of the following may trigger or increase your risk for a myasthenic crisis:

What are the signs and symptoms of a myasthenic crisis?

Your myasthenia gravis symptoms worsen during a myasthenic crisis. You may also have any of the following:

How is a myasthenic crisis diagnosed?

How is a myasthenic crisis treated?

A myasthenic crisis is an emergency condition that needs to be treated quickly. The goal of treatment is to make your muscles stronger so you can breathe better. Treatment may prevent your lungs from failing. You may need the following:

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

View more treatment options

What are the risks of a myasthenic crisis?

Use of a ventilator to help you breathe may cause an infection or damage to your lungs. The catheter tube used during plasma exchange may cause an infection. Myasthenia gravis increases your risk for abnormal heartbeats or a blood clot in your lungs. If a myasthenic crisis is left untreated, your breathing muscles may continue to weaken. It may be very hard for you to breathe on your own, and your lungs may stop working. This is life-threatening.

Where can I find support and more information?

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

When should I seek immediate care or call 911?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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