Impacto das alterações deglutitórias em indivíduos com miastenia gravis.

Abstract

Introduction: An autoimmune disease is characterized by a disorder of the immune system in which the body attacks and damages its own tissues as if they were foreign invaders. Acquired Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system produces antibodies that attack acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, resulting in a failure to transmit nerve impulses to the muscles, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. It can affect isolated muscle groups or become diffuse. Symptoms associated with swallowing disorders, such as difficulty initiating swallowing, nasal reflux, coughing during or after swallowing, and the sensation of food getting stuck in the throat, can lead to serious complications, such as malnutrition, dehydration, and respiratory problems, if not identified and treated properly. Objective: To identify the impact of swallowing alterations in individuals with Myasthenia Gravis. Method: Descriptive research, cross-sectional with a quantitative approach. Inclusion criteria: age 18 or older, both sexes; members of the Brazilian Myasthenia Association; diagnosed between 2 and 4 years ago; and using immunosuppressants and Mestinon. Exclusion criteria: Diagnosis of Congenital Myasthenia, age 17 or younger at the start of data collection, individuals with Myasthenia Gravis associated with other neurological diseases, and those with Myasthenia Gravis demonstrating cognitive alterations capable of compromising the understanding of the research, contacted electronically via email. The Eating Assessment Tool and sociodemographic questionnaire were applied to achieve the study objectives. Results: The study included 56 participants, with a predominance of females. Most participants use medications such as Mestinon and immunosuppressants, with these being the most common. Weight loss due to swallowing difficulties was observed in 62.50% of participants, the need to exert force to swallow liquids/solids was reported by 71.43%, and 87.50% of participants, respectively. Coughing during meals was reported by 80.36% of participants, and the sensation of food being stuck in the throat was reported by 83.93% of participants. Conclusion: Based on the data and analyses conducted, it is possible to conclude that swallowing alterations in patients with MG have an emotional and social impact. This can negatively affect social life, especially in situations involving shared meals, such as social gatherings and parties. It also highlights the critical relevance of medication intake as an integral part of the challenges faced.