Article: Myasthenia gravis can make eating difficult. Try to eat at times when your muscles are relatively strong, and take frequent breaks as you eat. Avoid foods that are difficult to chew, and stick to softer foods instead. Some people find it helpful to eat several small meals during the day instead of a few larger meals. Repetitive manual tasks can drain your energy quickly. Look for appliances and devices that can make these tasks easier. For example, you might switch from a regular toothbrush to an electric toothbrush, or use an electric mixer instead of a spoon or whisk when cooking. An eyepatch can help reduce symptoms such as double vision and minimize strain during activities that require a lot of visual focus. Try wearing an eyepatch during activities such as reading, writing, using your computer, or watching television. Occasionally switch your eyepatch to the other eye to avoid straining one eye from overuse. Myasthenia gravis might make you more prone to falls and other accidents in the home. Ask a family member, friend, or home healthcare professional to help you install railings and grab bars in high-risk areas, such as next to steps or in the bathroom. You can also make your home safer by:  Removing loose area rugs, clutter, and other tripping hazards. Keeping paths, sidewalks, and driveways on your property clear of leaves, snow, ice, and debris. Putting down non-slip mats or anti-slip tape on slippery floors in your home. Stress can worsen the symptoms of myasthenia gravis. Taking even a few minutes every day to relax and unwind may help you feel a little better. Try a few simple stress-relieving exercises or activities, such as:  Mindful meditiation Abdominal breathing Taking a warm bath or shower Listening to calming music Reading a favorite book, or listening to an audiobook As much as you can, plan to get major chores and activities done at times when you have the most energy. Strategize ways to make regular tasks easier and more efficient, so that you don’t have to expend as much energy moving around or gathering materials. For example, if you need to go to the grocery store, plan out your trip in advance. Write out a shopping list, taking into account where things are in the store so that you don’t need to keep walking back and forth. Coping with myasthenia gravis can be exhausting, and you shouldn’t have to deal with it alone. Ask family members, friends, or neighbors to help you with tasks that may be difficult for you, such as running errands or taking care of chores around the home. If you don’t have a good support network, ask your healthcare provider to recommend a support group in your area.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Use caution when eating. Switch to electric appliances instead of manual ones when you can. Wear an eyepatch to relieve eye strain. Keep your home environment safe. Do stress-relieving activities. Plan out your daily activities to minimize stress and strain. Reach out to your support network.