Patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) are not only more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression, but also to have worse MG symptoms because of these emotions, suggests a study recently published in Advances in Therapy.
While previous research has shown that patients with MG are more likely to suffer from both anxiety and depression compared with the general population, recent U.S.-based information is lacking. The study’s authors sought to better understand the current factors that contribute to anxiety and depression among patients with MG in the United States. “Up-to-date estimates are needed because the rates of both MG and anxiety/depression have been increasing in the US,” the authors noted.
Read more about MG testing and diagnosis
The researchers analyzed the transcript from a focus group of 12 U.S. patients with generalized MG. The discussion elicited a number of themes. The unpredictability of disease flare-ups was called “unstable” and “triggering,” and there was a strong feeling that medical care was a significant burden (for example, finding a suitable neurologist and having to travel long distances for care). More than half of the participants talked about the value of resilience.
Researchers also reviewed three U.S.-based studies on the relationship between MG and mental health. All three studies discussed how some patients may experience uncontrolled symptoms. The uncertainty of the severity of symptoms at any given moment can cause fear and worry, which impact quality of life.
Lastly, the research team retrieved 9,001 unique digital conversations about MG from across the Internet. The emotions discussed in these conversations encompassed depression, anxiety and hopelessness. They found that the patient journey can elicit different emotional responses at differing stages: Fear and anxiety are more common before diagnosis, whereas hopelessness and depression are more common later.
While uncertainty and anxiety are burdens in themselves, they may have an additional impact on people with MG. The authors suggested there is a positive feedback loop: Stress not only worsens mental health but also MG symptoms, creating symptom instability that leads to more stress — and in turn, worse mental health and more symptoms.
“These findings may inform clinicians in their approach to the treatment of individuals with MG, resulting in positive changes in patient care, and providing a platform for future research,” the study’s authors concluded.
Sign up here to get the latest news, perspectives, and information about MG sent directly to your inbox. Registration is free and only takes a minute.
