Is It MS-Multiple Sclerosis?
MS is more common among Caucasians (particularly those of northern European ancestry) than other races, and is almost unheard of in some populations, such as Eskimos. Certain outbreaks or clusters of MS have been identified, but their significance is not known. In certain populations, a genetic marker has been linked to MS. A particular genetic trait occurs more frequently in people with MS than in those who do not have the disease.
Today, multiple sclerosis is recognized as a chronic, inflammatory, demyelinating autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The damage to the myelin covering and to the underlying nerve cell fibers leads to slowed or blocked transmission of signals, which results in reduced or lost functions. Improved imaging techniques show that damage to nerve fibers can happen even at very early stages of the disease.
What are the symptoms of MS?
MS is often characterized by a pattern of exacerbation and remission. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision.
Possible symptoms include fatigue, loss of coordination, muscle weakness, spasticity,numbness, slurred speech, visual difficulties, paralysis, muscle cramps, bladder or bowel problems, and sexual dysfunction (National Multiple Sclerosis Society).
The initial symptoms of MS are most often difficulty walking; abnormal sensations such as numbness or “pins and needles”; and pain and loss of vision due to optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve. Less common initial symptoms may include tremor; lack of coordination; slurred speech; sudden onset of paralysis, similar to a stroke; and decline in cognitive function.
What causes MS?
Studies show that MS is the result of a number of factors rather than a single factor.
Most likely, genetics plays a role in determining a person’s susceptibility to MS. The disease is not entirely genetically controlled, although first-degree relatives individuals with MS have a 20- to 40-fold increased risk of developing the disease.
Exposure to environmental factors, such as a virus or bacteria, also plays a role,although the specific factors have not yet been identified. Another likely factor is a defective regulation of the normal immune response that leads to unwarranted attacks by the body’s defense mechanisms.
How is MS treated?
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, there are currently 5 federally approved medications that treat MS. Four of them: Avonex, Betaseron, Rebif, and Copaxone have been shown to be effective in modifying the natural course of relapsing MS. Clinical experience suggests they are most effective if taken early in the disease.
The fifth drug, Novantrone, is effective in slowing down MS that is rapidly worsening or becoming progressive. Steriods may be used to shorten acute attacks. Many other therapies are being clinically tested, and researchers feel hopeful that more treatments for MS will be available in the near future. In addition to medications, there are also many therapies to moderate or relieve MS symptoms, including physical therapy,exercise, vocational and cognitive rehabilitation, attention to diet, adequate rest, and counseling.
