as of November 7, 2009
Multiple Sclerosis Corner
OVERVIEW
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord).
CAUSES/RISK FACTORS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) usually affects woman more than men. The disorder most commonly begins between ages 20 and 40, but can be seen at any age.
The exact cause is not known, but MS is believed to result from damage to the myelin sheath, the protective material which surrounds nerve cells. It is a progressive disease, meaning the nerve damage (neurodegeneration) gets worse over time.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms vary, but may include:
-Decreased ability to control small movements
-Decreased coordination
-Decreased memory
-Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
-Dizziness
-Double vision
-Fatigue
-Loss of balance
-Movement problems - slowly progressive; beginning in the legs
-Muscle atrophy
-Muscle spasms (especially in the legs)
-Muscle spasticity (uncontrollable spasm of muscle groups)
Note: Symptoms may vary with each attack. They may last days to months, then reduce or disappear, then recur periodically. With each recurrence, the symptoms are different as new areas are affected. Fever can trigger or worsen attacks, as can hot baths, sun exposure, and stress.
CARE/TREATMENT
There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis at this time. However, there are promising therapies that may slow the disease. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and maintain a normal quality of life.
Medications used may include:
-Immune modulators to help control the immune system
-Steroids to decrease the severity of attacks when they occur
-Medicines to reduce muscle spasms
-Antidepressants for mood or behavior symptoms
Physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups can help improve the person's outlook, reduce depression, maximize function, and improve coping skills.
A planned exercise program early in the course of the disorder can help maintain muscle tone.
A healthy lifestyle is encouraged, including good general nutrition. Adequate rest and relaxation can help maintain energy levels. Attempts should be made to avoid fatigue, stress, temperature extremes, and illness to reduce factors that may trigger an MS attack.
Real Stories, Expert Advice
Health Corner Videos: Multiple Sclerosis
Race to Erase MS: Tommy Hilfiger & Nancy Davis
Joan Lunden: "MS is a disease that has struck many Americans across this country and it's a debilitating disease. And the Race to Erase MS is led by Nancy Davis. She’s the heart and soul of this movement and Tommy Hilfiger is as well and Tommy...
Resources
National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS)
NIH Neurological Institute
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
In the News: Multiple Sclerosis
Real-Time Observation Sheds New Light On Multiple Sclerosis
Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:00:00 PST
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/170153.php
In diseases such as multiple sclerosis, cells of the immune system infiltrate the brain tissue, where they cause immense damage. For many years, it was an enigma as to how these cells can escape from the bloodstream. This is no trivial feat, given that specialized blood vessels act as a barrier between the nervous system and the bloodstream. Until now, tissue sections provided the sole evidence that the immune cells really do manage to reach the nerve cells.
Multiple Sclerosis: What Part Do Relapses Play In Severe Disability?
Thu, 05 Nov 2009 04:00:00 PST
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/169951.php
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) who have relapses within the first five years of onset appear to have more severe disability in the short term compared to people who do not have an early relapse, according to a new study published in the November 4, 2009, issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study is one of the first to examine how MS relapses affect people during different time periods of the disease.