Multiple Sclerosis: Unraveling its Complexity
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease which can affect the brain, spine cord and optic nerves of your eyes. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can affect your vision, muscle control and balance. Effects can vary from person to person. Others have only mild symptoms, and do not need to be treated. Some people will find it difficult to move around or perform daily activities.
Understand Multiple Sclerosis - What is it?
The central nervous system is affected by multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disorder in which the immune response attacks myelin - the protective coating of the nerve fibers. Communication problems occur between the brain, and other parts of the body. The disease may cause nerve damage over time.
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, there are approximately 1 million MS patients in America. Most often, the disease affects people between 20-50 years old. Women are affected two or three times as much as men. The exact cause of MS is still unknown despite extensive research . There is also no current cure.
Multiple Sclerosis: Common causes
The cause of Multiple Sclerosis may be due to a combination genetic and environment factors. Although it is not known what causes the disease, there are several factors that increase your risk:
- Gender: Relapsing MS is more common in women than men.
- MS is a disease that can affect anyone at any age. However, it most often occurs in people aged between 15-60.
- You are more likely to develop MS if one or both of your parents, siblings or grandparents has MS.
- Viruses: Several viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus, which causes infectious mononucleosis, have been associated with MS.
The Treatments of Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is not curable, but treatments are available to help manage the symptoms, speed up recovery and slow down the progression. Treatment options include:
- DMTs (disease-modifying treatments) are medications that reduce MS symptoms, limit disease progression, and slow down the frequency of flares.
- They are prescribed to manage symptoms of MS, such as depression and anxiety, fatigue, walking problems, tingling and numbness, and pain.
- These treatments can improve the quality of life and manage symptoms for those with MS.
Experts' opinions on Multiple Sclerosis
Neurologists and immunologists continue to research multiple sclerosis in order to better understand the disease and develop more effective treatment options. Many questions remain unanswered despite years of research . Early diagnosis and treatment have the potential to improve the quality of life of a patient and possibly delay disease progression.
Natural Remedies for Multiple Sclerosis and Prevention Strategies
Some natural remedies, as well as lifestyle modifications and medical treatment may help to manage symptoms of MS. It's best to consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment.
- Healthy lifestyles: Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, get enough rest and avoid smoking. All of these can contribute to a better health.
- Some evidence suggests that Vitamin D could have protective properties against MS. More research in this field is required.
- Mind-body therapy: Yoga, mindfulness, and meditation are all techniques that can help reduce stress and anxiety in MS.