Multiple sclerosis is one progressive, long-lasting disorder that negatively affects the spinal cord, brain, or optic nerves in the eyes. It affects balance, vision, muscle control, along with other body functions. The symptoms vary from one person to another. Some suffer from mild symptoms, while others suffer from severe symptoms. Multiple sclerosis affects the immune system by attacking the formation of myelin, which is a fatty deposition that wraps around the nerve fibers in a healthy condition. The damage to myelin sheet results in impairment of the brain to send signals.
The symptoms felt due to multiple sclerosis include:
- Tiredness
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Trouble walking
- Double or blurred vision
- Tingling or numbness
- Sexual disorders
- Improper bowel or bladder control
- Depression
- Pain
- Difficulty to focus or concentrate
The initial signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis appear during the early adulthood to late adulthood. In some cases, the condition relapses with regular intervals; however, in other situations, it gets worse.
The ultimate cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown. However, specific genetic mutations can result in higher chances of Multiple sclerosis, smokers at higher risk of developing Multiple sclerosis. Some individuals suffer from MS due to viral infections such as Epstein Barr virus, human herpes virus6, and others. However, people who expose themselves to sunlight regularly are at a lesser risk to suffer from multiple sclerosis as vitamin D strengthens the immune system and protects the individual against any disorders. Multiple sclerosis is more common in people who live in colder places i.e., people who stay away from the Equator like in Scandinavia, Scotland, northern Europe, and others. Other than these causes, sex hormones also play a role in suppressing immunity and result in Multiple sclerosis such as testosterone, progesterone, or estrogen.
The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is quite complicated, as the signs and symptoms of the condition resemble different neurological disorders. Consult a neurologist for the determination of multiple sclerosis. The doctor will ask you about the medical history, interpretive signs like nerve damage in the spinal cord, brain, or optic nerves. There are various diagnostic tests to rule out Multiple sclerosis such as blood tests, checking the coordination, balance, vision, other functions to check whether the nerves are intact or not. MRI test is performed for further investigation of the cellular structures within the body. CSF is analyzed, which is the liquid surrounding the spinal cord and brain as CSF has specific proteins if a person is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. An Evoke potential test is also performed, which helps to measure the electrical activity of the brain.
There is no ultimate cure for multiple sclerosis, but there are various treatment options that can help in relieving the symptoms. The doctors will prescribe you drugs that slow down the progression of the disease, prevent any further attacks, and helps in managing stressful situations or painful symptoms. Other than the medications, you can have physical therapy where you learn exercises to maintain the balance and strength of your body. It keeps you pain-free and allows you to prevent any tiredness or fatigue. You can also perform yoga or other meditation techniques that will enable you to ease stress.
To conclude, multiple sclerosis is a type of autoimmune disorder where the body starts preparing antibodies against the own system leading to damaging effects. In this condition, it mainly destroys the myelin sheath covering the nerves in the brain or spinal cord.
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!