The nurse is assessing a patient with myasthenia gravis. Which are characteristics of this disease?
Select all that apply.
1. Routine exercise provides an improvement in muscle strength.
2. Visual problems may be an early symptom.
3. There may be difficulty swallowing.
4. Great improvement occurs in muscle strength with physical therapy.
5. There may be poor articulation in speaking.
Correct Answer: 2, 3, 5
The manifestations of myasthenia gravis correspond to the muscles involved. Initially, the eye muscles are affected and the patient experiences either diplopia (unilateral or bilateral double vision) or ptosis (drooping of the eyelid). Patients may have periods of dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and dysarthria (problems with speech). Although treatments such as glucocorticoid and immunosuppressant therapy may result in an increase in muscle strength, exercise tends to fatigue muscles, while rest will improve function. The voice is weak with a muffled nasal quality.
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