I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas. As the year comes to a close, it’s time to start thinking about New Year’s Resolutions. We often make fun of resolutions because people often have good intent, but they never seem to follow through for long. I want to provide some reasons and tips on how resolutions can make a profound difference in the life of a person with Myasthenia Gravis.
Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes fluctuating muscle weakness and fatigue, often affecting the eyes, face, throat, limbs, and sometimes breathing. While there currently is no cure, many people with MG lead active, fulfilling lives through effective management. Setting resolutions can be a powerful tool for this. By establishing specific, achievable targets, individuals can build habits that optimize health, conserve energy, and foster resilience. If a person is truly committed to their resolutions, they can become actionable steps which help to minimize symptom flare-ups, maintain a fulfilling life, and enhance overall well-being.
Below are some key areas where resolutions can make a difference:
1. Prioritizing Rest and Energy Conservation – One of the hallmarks of MG is fatigue that worsens with activity, so committing to better rest can prevent overexertion and crises. A resolution like “I will aim for 7-8 hours of sleep a night and perhaps add rest breaks or a nap during the day that will help me pace activities, schedule demanding tasks during peak energy times, and listen to my body’s signals.” This helps sustain productivity by avoiding exhaustion, enabling you to engage in work, hobbies, or social life without infrequent interruptions from symptoms.
2. Adopt a Balanced Diet and Nutrition Plan – MG treatments like steroids can lead to side effects such as weight gain or fluid retention, while swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) affect about 15% of patients. Set a goal like “I will consult a dietitian to create a weekly meal plan with soft, nutrient-rich foods and track my intake.” Focus on balanced meals from all food groups, smaller portions, cold items to ease swallowing, and foods high in potassium, calcium, and vitamin D to counter medication effects. Eating slowly, resting before meals, and avoiding aggravating foods (e.g., spicy or greasy) can improve energy levels and strength, supporting daily activities and long-term health.
3. Incorporate Moderate Exercise – While overexertion can worsen weakness, regular, gentle activity builds endurance and offsets treatment side effects. A resolution such as “I will exercise for 10-15 minutes daily, focusing on low-impact activities like walking, yoga, or Tai Chi, and track progress in a journal” can help. Time sessions for when you feel strongest (e.g., mornings or after medication), include rest periods, and consider working with a trainer familiar with chronic conditions. This promotes physical independence, reduces stress, and allows for a more active lifestyle, as seen in patients who return to sports or daily routines.
4. Manage Stress and Emotional Well-Being – Stress can trigger symptom flares, so mindfulness practices are key. Commit to “I will practice daily meditation or deep breathing for 10 minutes and journal about my experiences weekly.” Techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or limiting multitasking help reset the nervous system and maintain a positive outlook. Accepting good and bad days, staying positive, and avoiding emotional overload can enhance mental resilience, making it easier to pursue productive goals like career advancement or family time.
5. Build and Utilize Support Networks – Isolation can compound challenges, but strong connections provide practical and emotional aid. A goal like “I will join an MG support group and reach out to one friend or family member weekly for help” fosters community. Educate loved ones about MG, accept assistance (e.g., for chores), and connect via organizations like the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA). This support enables fuller participation in life, from volunteering to travel, by sharing the load and reducing stress.
6. Monitor Symptoms and Adhere to Medical Advice – Tracking progress empowers self-advocacy. Resolve to “I will use a symptom diary or app like myMG to log daily symptoms and discuss them at every doctor’s visit.” This includes adhering to medications (e.g., timing doses for peak effectiveness), avoiding triggers like extreme temperatures or certain drugs, and collaborating with a healthcare team for adjustments. Regular monitoring prevents complications, allowing for timely interventions and a more stable, productive routine.
7. Adapt Your Environment and Daily Habits – Small changes enhance safety and efficiency. Set a target like “I will make one home modification monthly, such as installing grab bars, and plan travel with accessibility in mind.” Avoid temperature extremes, use assistive devices, and prepare for emergencies with medical alerts. These adaptations reduce fall risks and energy drain, supporting independence and engagement in meaningful activities.
Overall, resolutions work best when they’re SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) and flexible, accounting for MG’s variability. Starting small builds momentum, and many patients report improved quality of life through such proactive planning—leading to careers, family life, and hobbies without constant limitation. Consult your doctor before implementing changes, as personalized advice is crucial. With consistent effort, these goals can transform MG management into a pathway for fulfillment.
I hope you give some thought to these suggestions and adopt the ones that will work best for you. New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be something we dream up and soon forget. By committing to making some changes in your lifestyle, you can assure a healthier, happier you.
Happy New Year’s, my friends. May 2026 be a year of breakthroughs in your well-being as well as with Myasthenia Gravis research and treatment options.