According to recent studies, nearly one million people in the United States are living with multiple sclerosis (MS). This disease most often begins in adults between ages 20 and 40. Women are more likely to develop it than men, and the risk is higher if there is a family history of MS.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the protective covering of nerves in the central nervous system. The central nervous system is comprised of the brain and nerves in the spinal cord. They are covered by myelin, which both protects the nerves and makes nerve impulses more efficient. In MS, the myelin has developed scarring or lesions, which slows the electrical impulses.
What Causes MS?
There are many possible causes of MS, including:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Infectious agents, like viruses
- Environmental factors
- Genetic factors
Early symptoms of MS include:
• Blurred or double vision
• Fatigue
• Numbness, tingling or loss of feeling
• Muscle spasms in the arms, legs or both
• Balance and coordination problems
• Trouble concentrating, focusing or remembering things
MS is difficult to diagnose. Symptoms can come and go, and they look like other health problems. Your health care provider will take a detailed history of symptoms and conduct a neurologic exam to check muscle strength, coordination, balance and reflexes. In addition, lab tests like MRI, spinal tap (lumbar puncture) and blood tests will be performed.
What are the Treatment Options?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for MS, but there are ways of managing the effects of MS and delaying the progression of the disease. Treatment options include medications to keep your body’s immune system from attacking the myelin. Some medications will be used to manage the symptoms you are experiencing. You may also undergo rehabilitation (rehab) or therapy to maintain muscle strength, balance and coordination. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest and regular exercise also help manage MS symptoms. Many people with MS are able to lead healthy, active lives with these treatments.
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease and affects each person a bit differently. If you have MS, make sure to see your health care provider regularly to monitor the disease.
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