autonomic disorders Flashcards
It plays a crucial role in controlling involuntary bodily functions.
Autonomic Nervous System
It is a vital component of the peripheral nervous system, responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.
Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)
Two main branches of ANS
Sympathetic Nervous System
Parasympathetic Nervous System
It prepares the body for stress and action, activating the “fight- or-flight” response.
Sympathetic Nervous System
Promotes relaxation and conservation of energy, activating the “rest-and-digest” response.
Parasympathetic Nervous System
It is an autoimmune disorder characterized by muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscle fibers from contracting effectively.
Myasthenia gravis (MG)
Two main types of Myasthenia gravis
Ocular MG
Generalized MG
This type affects only the muscles of the eyes, causing symptoms such as double vision and drooping eyelids.
Ocular MG
Symptoms for Ocular MG
Double vision and Drooping eyelids
This type affects muscles throughout the body, leading to more widespread weakness and fatigue.
Generalized MG
NOTE:
The hallmark of MG is muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
Symptoms of Myasthenia Gravis
• Visual Symptoms
• Facial Weakness
• Respiratory Issues
• Limb Weakness
Diagnosis of Myasthenia gravis
• Blood Tests
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Tensilon Test
Evaluates muscle response to a drug that inhibits the breakdown of acetylcholine, temporarily improving muscle strength in MG patients
Tensilon Test
Assesses muscle function by measuring electrical activity in response to nerve stimulation.
Electromyography (EMG)
Detect antibodies against acetylcholine receptors, which are present in most MG patients.
Blood Tests
Pharmacological Interventions for Myasthenia Gravis
• Cholinesterase Inhibitors
• Corticosteroids
• Immunomodulators
Examples of Cholinesterase inhibitors
Neostigmine
Pyridostigmine
Example of Corticosteroids
Prednisone
Examples of Immunomodulators
Azathioprine
Cyclosporine
Function of Cholinesterase inhibitors
Increase acetylcholine levels
Functions of Corticosteroids
Suppress the immune system
Function of Immunomodulators
Suppress the immune system
Non-pharmacological Interventions for Myasthenia Gravis
• Eye exercise
• Physical Therapy
• Dietary modifications