Balancing Myasthenia Gravis and work

MG can be challenging, but with the right approach and support, you can have a healthy working life. Here's how your employer and healthcare team can help.*

Get support from your employer

For those who manage MG effectively with medication, daily activities can often go smoothly. But we still invite you to consider these tips to make your workday easier:

Take breaks

Frequent breaks during the workday can help manage the fatigue and muscle weakness associated with MG.

Stress management

Minimise stress as it can worsen symptoms. Discuss stress management strategies with your employer.

Flexible working arrangements

If necessary, explore options with your employer for working remotely or performing less strenuous tasks.

Woman working on a laptop and maintaining health at work with Myasthenia Gravis

Staying healthy at work

It can be hard to know when to tell your boss and coworkers about your diagnosis. Your doctor or others you know through an MG support group may be able to offer suggestions for how to approach the subject of adjustments. It will probably help to reassure your boss that most adjustments are no- or low-cost.

Some adjustments you may want to discuss with your company include:

  • A guaranteed parking space near the building
  • Building breaks into your workday
  • Reassigning or reducing lifting duties
  • Allowing you to work from home
  • Flexible deadlines to minimise stress
  • Ensuring your workplace is cool enough
  • Assistive devices such as a cart, voice-to-text software, grip handles, and more
  • Preventive measures to keep you healthy at work
  • Reasonable accommodations to your work environment and schedule
  • When to get emergency help
  • Key contacts

Balancing myasthenia gravis (MG) and work requires a proactive approach and support from both your healthcare team and your employer. 

With appropriate strategies and adjustments, you can manage your condition effectively and maintain a productive work life.

Remember to communicate your needs, seek support and use available resources to create a healthy and supportive work environment.

*This article features insights from Tommy, Julia, and Alexis, who live with myasthenia gravis and originally shared their perspectives on mg-united.com, a site for U.S. readers.

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argenx, a global immunology company, created MG United to support people living with MG and those who care for them. By providing information on MG United, argenx aims to help improve the lives of people suffering from this autoimmune disease. MG United does not offer medical advice; always consult your healthcare team for personalised medical guidance. The brands listed are the trademarks of their respective owners.