My mother has had myasthenia gravis for the past 2 to 3 years. She is taking steroids, but she is now having side effects along with heart and kidney problems. Are there any safer treatment options or Ayurvedic care we can consider?
Myasthenia gravis is a long-term autoimmune condition in which the immune system impairs communication between nerves and muscles, leading to weakness, fatigue, drooping eyelids, difficulty swallowing, and breathing problems. Steroids can help control the disease, but long-term use can sometimes produce side effects such as weight gain, diabetes, bone weakness, infections, high blood pressure, and strain on the heart or kidneys. Treatment options may sometimes be adjusted depending on the severity of symptoms and overall health. Doctors may consider lowering the steroid dose gradually, adding steroid-sparing medicines, IVIG therapy, plasma exchange, or other immune-based treatments to reduce long-term side effects. Proper monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, blood sugar, and heart condition is important during treatment. Some people use Ayurvedic therapies for supportive care, such as stress reduction, gentle massage, diet support, and improving general well-being, but herbal medicines should be used carefully because some products may interact with ongoing medicines or affect kidney function. Sudden breathing difficulty, severe weakness, choking while eating, or rapid worsening of symptoms can become serious and may need hospital care.
