Tennis legend Monica Seles has disclosed her ongoing struggle with myasthenia gravis (MG), a rare, incurable autoimmune disease that causes fluctuating muscle weakness. The condition, which affects voluntary muscles connected to bones, face, throat, and diaphragm, can impact essential functions such as breathing and swallowing.
Seles, who has been grappling with the disease for five years, shared her experience in a press release announcing her collaboration with the immunology company argenx. The partnership aims to raise awareness and provide resources for individuals living with MG. Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist, explained that MG is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s defense system attacks the connection between nerves and muscles. Symptoms can range from mild eye issues to more severe difficulties in movement, speech, and respiration.
Heat exposure, physical exertion, and certain infections can exacerbate symptoms, requiring patients to manage their condition carefully with treatment options including medications to reduce muscle weakness and immunosuppressants. While MG presents significant challenges, most patients can lead fulfilling lives with proper management and care.