Multiple Sclerosis

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (ALSO KNOWN AS MS) ?

A condition that affects the central nervous system, in other words the brain and spinal cord

Can also affect optic nerves in the eyes

It causes a disruption of the material, myelin, that wrap around the nerve fibres to insulate and protect them

This leads to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body

It can occur at any age, but is most commonly found in individuals between the ages of 15 and 60

In some cases, symptoms are mild not requiring treatment. Other cases are more severe requiring ongoing treatment and support

TYPES OF MS

There are 4 types of MS, namely:

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) – The most common form of MS where the symptoms respond to treatment and resolve for weeks to years, but relapses may occur
Secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) – Signs and symptoms don’t fully disappear during remission periods
Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) – The signs and symptoms of MS progress over time, with no remission periods
Progressive-relapsing multiple sclerosis (PRMS) – Although periods of remission occur, the symptoms become more severe over time

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MS

Common signs and symptoms of MS include:

Problems with vision
Imbalance
Loss of muscle control
Trouble walking
Fatigue/Tiredness
Difficulty swallowing
Poor control over bladder and/or colon
Numbness, tingling or muscle spasms
Difficulty concentrating and remembering
Dizziness
Erectile dysfunction
Overall body pain
Slurred speech

THE CAUSES OF MS

The exact cause is still unknown A combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role It is considered an auto-immune disease, where the body attacks and destroys its own myelin It is possible that certain viruses that impact the immune system may play a role in developing MS Vitamin D helps strengthen the immune system. Some studies suggest that a vitamin D deficiency may contribute towards developing MS It is not contagious

WHO IS AT RISK OF DEVELOPING MS?

Having relatives with MS – in other words, having a genetic predisposition More prevalent amongst females than males Individuals with other auto-immune conditions, such as type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease or inflammatory bowel disease are at higherM risk for developing MS

HOW IS MS DIAGNOSED?

Usually diagnosed by a specialist in the brain and nervous system, called a neurologist Up to date there is no single test available to confirm the diagnosis of MS Evaluation of medical history of signs and symptoms will take place Diagnosis mostly based on eliminating other causes of the presenting signs and symptoms, which may include:

Blood tests to rule out conditions that cause similar symptoms
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spinal cord is a powerful tool for the early diagnosis of multiple sclerosis to detect lesions. It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment
Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid, that is the fluid around the brain and spinal cord
Testing the electrical activity in the brain
Physical examination, especially of balance and vision

WHAT IS THE EDSS SCORE FOR MS?

As per the National Multiple Sclerosis Society: “The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is a method of quantifying disability in multiple sclerosis and monitoring changes in the level of disability over time. It is widely used in clinical trials and in the assessment of people with MS8.”

TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF MS

There is no cure for MS as yet, but treatment can improve the symptoms of MS, slow the progression of the disease and help with the nerve damage.

MEDICATION

There are numerous medication options that the treating doctor or specialist will consider, including, but not limited to:

Disease modifying medications
Corticosteroids
Plasma exchange therapy
Muscle relaxants
Medication to reduce fatigue
Pain medication
Antidepressants
Medication for sexual dysfunction
Medication for bladder and bowel control
Medication to help improve memory

PHYSICAL OR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Stretching and strengthening exercises Training on devices to utilise for performing daily tasks

WHAT IF I WANT TO START A FAMILY?

People with MS are just as likely to conceive and have healthy children as anyone else. In fact, because MS is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 to 40, plenty of people with MS go on to become parents after their diagnosis.

COPING AND SUPPORT

Follow a healthy diet Get adequate sleep Exercise regularly Build a support structure, including associations or support groups focusing on supporting individuals with MS Avoid exposure to heat, as MS symptoms may worsen when body temperature rises

Medical References

The information on this website is meant to give general knowledge only. It is not medical advice and should not replace advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a doctor. It also doesn’t set a specific way that care should be given.Always talk to your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional if you have any health questions or concerns. Don’t ignore or delay getting medical help because of something you read on this website.Medical information is always changing, so the details on this site—or any sites it links to—might not be fully accurate or up to date. You should not use this information to make medical decisions for yourself or others. If you do, you are doing so at your own risk.