What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a disease which attacks the central nervous system, causing symptoms such as fatigue; weakness and stiffness in the limbs; tremors; coordination problems; blurring or loss of vision; incontinence; and tingling sensations or tightness in the limbs or trunk.
These problems occur when electrical signals in the body short-circuit, in effect. The protective sheath which protects nerves in the body, called myelin, becomes inflamed or is destroyed, causing electrical flow to degenerate. Because myelin is found throughout the body, symptoms of multiple sclerosis can affect several systems.
Symptoms of MS
Mild symptoms of multiple sclerosis may begin to appear as early as the pre-teen years, but often go undiagnosed. In the young adult years, between 20 and 40, stronger attacks, which may last from weeks to months, begin. The scarring of the inflammed nerves (called sclerosis) which occurs during these attacks causes damage that eventually becomes permanent. Many people who suffer from multiple sclerosis participate in limited activity or are wheelchair-bound.
Treatment Options
Because of the diversity of symptoms associated with MS, it can be difficult to treat. Conventional treatments include interferon beta, which decreases frequency and severity of attacks; baclofen and dantrolene, which supress muscle spasms; muscle relaxants and physical therapy, which provide relief from muscle pain and stiffness; and corticosteroids, used to treat inflammation, particularly in the optic nerve. Some success has been shown with drugs like azathioprine and cyclophosphamide, and with total lyphoid irradiation. Mostly, medication treats only symptoms. Many people with multiple sclerosis seek out alternative treatments such as Vitamin D injections, and newer treatments are being developed, such as plasma exchange and immune tolerance. Researchers are trying to target only those immune cells which cause demyelination.
Causes of MS
While no one is sure what causes MS, we do know that women are twice as likely to develop MS as men, and it occurs more frequently in Caucasians than African Americans.
There are three main types of multiple sclerosis:
- relapse-remitting, which are cycles of sudden, strong attacks and periods of nearly complete remission;
- relapse-progressive, also occuring in cycles, but each remission is less complete, leading to gradual disability;
- chronic-progressive, a quickly debilitating form which has no remissions.
Proper diagnosis is very important, so if you suspect you may be suffering from multiple sclerosis, be sure to see your doctor. He or she can diagnose and help you choose the right treatment for your symptoms.
For more information about these and other health issues, call UT Medical Group at 901-448-6610.
Other Resources:
Information and links found on the UT Medical Group, Inc. web site are neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may have a medical emergency call your healthcare provider immediately.
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