A small review for all those who don’t know much about multiple sclerosis. So what is multiple sclerosis? It is an immune-mediated disorder that is progressive. The immune system which is meant for protecting the vital organs starts attacking them resulting in the improper functioning of these organs. The protective sheath covering the nerve cells becomes damaged leading to reduced functions of the spinal cord and brain. The symptoms and severity of this disease are variable. Some people experience numbness, fatigue while in intense cases people suffer from visual loss, paralysis and reduced brain functions. Other symptoms include sexual dysfunctions, bladder issues, weakness, cognitive problems, dizziness, and balance issues.
Visual problems are one of the commonest symptoms which are associated with Multiple Sclerosis. Inflammation due to this disease results in impairment of the optic nerve leading to disruption of the central vision. It can cause vision loss, blurred or double vision. Visual problems are immediately noticed however, compete visual loss is a slow process.
Multiple sclerosis affects the nerves within the brain and spinal cord which can result in the improper transmission of signals all over the body. In some situations, the body stops sending signals where it results in numbness. The warning signs of multiple sclerosis include tingling and numbness sensation. The common locations of these symptoms include arms, legs, face, and fingers.
80-90% of people suffer from weakness and fatigue throughout the body. Chronic fatigue is experienced by the patients when the nerves are damaged in the spinal column. The weakness is commonly noticed in the legs at the initial stage, however, fatigue is usually seen suddenly and lasts for weeks or months.
Involuntary muscle spasms and chronic pain are also common signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis. According to the study conducted by the National MS Society, half of the people suffering from multiple sclerosis also suffered from chronic pain. Muscle stiffness and spasms cause the jerky movements in the muscles and joints. In multiple sclerosis, legs are commonly affected along with the back pain.
Incoordination problems along with dizziness are also common problems seen in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. It reduces the mobility of such patients and results in gait issues. These patients suffer from light-headedness, spinning head, and dizziness which is often felt during standing up posture.
Cognitive issues are also faced in 50% of the people suffering from multiple sclerosis. These patients suffer from short-term attention periods, memory issues, language problems, and difficulty to stand properly.
Bowel and bladder dysfunction are also commonly seen in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. 80% of the people suffering from multiple sclerosis have issues like frequent urination, inability to control urination for a longer duration or a strong urge to pass urine frequently. In some MS patients, people also suffer from bowel disorders like constipation, diarrhea, unable to control bowel functions and others.
Sexual dysfunction is also an issue seen in such patients because it starts in the central nervous system which is attacked in the disease.
Emotional changes are also frequently seen in MS patients where the person suffers from irritability, depression, mood swings, and bouts of continuous laughter, crying or others.
You can get rid of the symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis by the immediate support of your friends and family members. These symptoms are complex but immediate healthcare support can help in reducing the severity of such symptoms.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!