A weak patient can do a breath count at medication time, then again 2 hours later. Stronger patients can extend arms straight out in front of them and time how long they can hold their arms in the air. If these exercises are done on a regular basis in the morning, afternoon, and evening, the effectiveness of medication will be measured. Myasthenics should not exercise until they are completely weak. Just do a little at a time, then rest.
Rest can help as much, or more, than medicine.
Stan had an understanding Fitness Director who gave him encouragement to get the most out of his exercising that his muscles would allow. I would recommend that you be involved in low-output exercise, such as water aerobics, stationary bicycling, walking and appropriate muscle stretching. Please keep in mind that the most important point in exercising is to make you feel comfortably active, while keeping a positive outlook. Keeping the weight down and following a healthy diet should also be important. California Chapter, fall 1994 .