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Multiple Sclerosis
Medical Questions » Multiple Sclerosis
| Name: Multiple Sclerosis |
| Also known as: Disseminated Sclerosis; MS |
| An uncommon disease of the brain and spinal cord that interferes with the brain' s ability to control the body. |
Causes of Multiple Sclerosis
Not known precisely, but there are several theories. It is possibly due to an unidentified virus, or it may be that the body becomes allergic to itself, and starts attacking its own cells in an immune response. May start as a transverse myelitis (see separate entry). Scattered parts of the brain and spinal cord are damaged at random, the affected areas fail to function properly, and nerve messages from the brain to the muscles do not flow smoothly. Sometimes the message cannot get through at all, and paralysis results, while at other times the message may go to the wrong place, causing abnormal movement or a tremor. Often attacks people in the prime of life rather than old age, is more common in people with western European ancestry, and is rare in the tropics between 40°S and 40°N. It is not contagious or preventable. |
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
Vary greatly from one patient to another, but usually include vision problems, unusual forms of paralysis, tremor, loss of balance, poor coordination, general tiredness and numbness. Patients may experience difficulty in controlling an arm or leg, cannot talk, or may have periods of blindness. Symptoms also change in a patient because damaged tissue can repair itself and start functioning again, while other nerves becomes damaged, causing yet another set of symptoms. |
Tests for Multiple Sclerosis
The diagnosis can be difficult to confirm. Electroencephalograms (EEG), electromyelograms (EMG), blood tests (no specific test is diagnostic) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are all used. |
Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis
No effective treatment available, but some medications (eg: beta interferon, steroids) can slow its progress, control acute attacks and bring about remissions. Physiotherapists, speech therapists and occupational therapists are also used.
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Complications of Multiple Sclerosis of its treatment
Pressure skin areas and bacterial infections of various organs due to lack of movement. |
Likely Outcome of Multiple Sclerosis
Goes through a series of attacks and remissions, and periods of good health between attacks can last for months or years. Most patients can lead independent, active and satisfying lives and take care of their own needs for many years after the diagnosis is made. The life span of victims is not significantly altered. |
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