Sinus Symptoms Led to Myasthenia Gravis Diagnosis

Alexis Rodriguez, a Myasthenia Gravis (MG) patient shares his personal story to help raise awareness for this disease and give advice to others in the community living with or caring for someone with a rare condition. MG is a chronic, autoimmune, neuromuscular condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly targets the connection between the nerves and the muscles. It is rare – affecting about 10 of every 100,000 people. Learn more at Rare Disease Information. 

Initially Alexis thought he had a sinus infection after having a headache for three days, but knew it was more serious when he started to experience double vision and droopy eyelids. Alexis then saw a neuro-ophthalmologist and was diagnosed with ocular MG at just 24 years old.

After figuring out the right treatment regiment, Alexis went into remission for two years – life was more or less back to normal and he was able to do the things he loved, like cooking for his family.

While in remission, Alexis went to the dentist where he had to have a cavity filled and the very next day Alexis woke up with double vision and droopy eyelids after two years of no symptoms. This time he also experienced a weak neck and difficulties with repetitive motions such as brushing his teeth and walking. His new ophthalmologist confirmed he now had generalized MG that affected his entire body versus just his eyes.