How does Multiple Sclerosis affect a person's life?

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Multiple Sclerosis Quick Bytes

Consult Neurologists in Mumbai

Multiple sclerosis is a disabling disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder. The immune system attacks the myelin sheath. This protective sheath covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body.

Refer Multiple sclerosis Pictorial Presentation

Multiple sclerosis ranges from relatively benign to devastating, as communication between the brain and other parts of the body is disrupted.

What Causes disease?

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown. It is considered an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. It destroys the fatty substance that coats and protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. The possible causes include genetic factors, environmental factors, and infectious agents.

What are the Risk Factors?

Age – It usually occurs around 20 and 40 years of age.
Sex – Women are more likely to get affected than men.

Family history – History of multiple sclerosis increases the risk.
Certain infections – Most of the virus has been linked to multiple sclerosis.
Race – Northern Europeans are at higher risk than others.
Climate – More common in temperate climates
Vitamin D – Low level of vitamin D is linked with high risk.
Autoimmune diseases
Smoking – Smokers may signal more often than non-smokers

Multiple Sclerosis: Signs and symptoms

The symptoms of MS are often unpredictable. The signs and symptoms may differ greatly from person to person and throughout the disease. The possible symptoms include: –

Weakness
Numbness
Shaking (tremors)
Loss of vision
Pain
Paralysis
Loss of balance
Bladder and bowel problems

What are the Complications?

Muscle spasms
Paralysis
Bladder problems
Mood swings
Depression
Epilepsy

Diagnosis: How to diagnose Multiple Sclerosis?

There are no specific tests for MS. However, a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis depends on ruling out other conditions that produce similar signs and symptoms.

Medical history – Check for symptoms and other risk factors.
Diagnostic tests – The tests performed are:
- Blood tests: – Help to rule out other diseases with symptoms similar to MS
- Cerebral spinal fluid analysis: – Test for cellular and chemical abnormalities seen with MS.
- MRI: – It can identify areas of MS on your brain and spinal cord.
- Evoked potentials: – Record the brain’s electrical response to visual, auditory, and sensory stimuli.

Treatment: How is Multiple Sclerosis treated?

Medications
Physical therapy
Balanced diet
Relieve stress

Medications-Beta interferon drugs
- Avonex
- Betaseron
- Extavia
- Refib
Monoclonal antibody drugs
- Ocrevus
- Lemtrada
- Alemtuzumab
Physical therapy
Balanced diet
Relieve stress

Prevention: Can we prevent Multiple Sclerosis?

Prevention of disease –

There is no approved method of prevention.

Living with the disease–

Taking medicines as directed by the physician leads to ease in symptoms. Using equipment like canes or walkers can help with walking difficulty. Rehabilitation activities can also help to keep functioning.

When to see a doctor? :

It is wise to consult with a gynecologist immediately if observed any symptoms. The typical consultation fee for a gynecologist ranges from Rs. 200 to Rs. 2500 in India.