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Multiple sclerosis

Description

It is defined as a potentially disabling disease of the brain & spinal cord (CNS). In Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the immune system attacks myelin (protective sheath) that covers nerve fibers. This leads to communication problems between the brain & the entire body. Ultimately the disease leads to permanent damage or deterioration of nerves.

The signs of MS will vary with the amount of nerve damage & nerve that is affected. Some individuals with multiple sclerosis lose the ability to walk independently or at all. Currently, no cure is present for this condition. But some treatment options may help speed recovery from attacks, manage symptoms & change the course of the disease.

Causes

Its causes are unknown. MS is considered an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system starts abnormally attacking its own tissues and destroy the fatty substance that protects nerve fibers. Its occurrence in some people isn’t clear. However, it may be related to genetics & environmental factors.

Risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of MS include:

  • Age: mostly occurs around 20 & 40 years
  • Sex: women more likely to have than men
  • Family history
  • Certain infections: several viruses like Epstein-Barr virus.
  • Race: white people are at the highest risk. While Asian, Africans & native Americans are at the lowest risk
  • Climate
  • Vitamin D (having low levels & low exposure to sunlight)
  • Certain autoimmune diseases
  • Smoking
Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

  • Numbness & tingling
  • Muscle spasm, stiffness & weakness
  • Mobility problems
  • Pain
  • Fatigue (overall feeling of tiredness)
  • Thinking, learning & planning problems
  • Anxiety & depression
  • Sexual problems
  • Difficulty in speech & swallowing
  • Bladder problems
Diagnosis

The diagnosis of MS is complicated as no single test can positively diagnose it. Some tests that may confirm MS include:

  • Neurological examination: doctor looks for abnormalities/changes/weakness in vision, eye movements, hand or leg strength, balance and co-ordination, speech, and reflexes.
  • MRI scan shows whether there is any damage/scarring of myelin sheath
  • Evoked potential test
  • Lumbar puncture which is a procedure to remove sample of spinal fluid
  • Blood tests used to rule out causes of symptoms.
Management

Multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment depends upon specific symptom & difficulties a person has. Management includes:

  • Treating specific MS symptoms
  • Treatment to reduce no. of relapses (disease-modifying therapies)
  • Treating relapses of MS symptoms (with steroid medications)
When to consult a doctor?

If you experience symptoms mentioned above to which reasons are unknown, then consult a neurologist. These doctors are expert at various CNS disorders (central nervous system).

 

Available Medicine for Multiple sclerosis

Betaferon 300mcg

Rs.4747.13

Bayer