What Happens if VMA Is Left Untreated?

Visceral myasthenia gravis (VMA) is a rare but potentially fatal autoimmune disorder characterized by weakness and fatigue of the muscles that control eye movements, swallowing, and breathing. If VMA is left untreated, it can lead to a number of serious complications, including:

* Difficulty breathing: VMA can cause weakness of the respiratory muscles, making it difficult to breathe. This can lead to respiratory failure and death.

* Difficulty swallowing: VMA can cause weakness of the muscles that control swallowing, making it difficult to eat and drink. This can lead to malnutrition and dehydration.

* Blurred vision or double vision: VMA can cause weakness of the muscles that control eye movements, leading to blurred vision or double vision.

* Drooping eyelids: VMA can cause weakness of the muscles that hold the eyelids open, leading to drooping eyelids.

* Speech problems: VMA can cause weakness of the muscles that control speech, leading to difficulty speaking or slurred speech.

* Muscle atrophy: VMA can cause the muscles to atrophy or waste away, leading to weakness and fatigue.

* Death: VMA can be fatal if it is not treated. The most common cause of death from VMA is respiratory failure.

Early diagnosis and treatment of VMA is essential to prevent these complications. Treatment options for VMA include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.