The loss of the nerve cell’s sheath is the starting point of nerve disturbance which then lead to a potentially debilitating disease what we call as multiple sclerosis (MS). This nerve disturbance affects the function of nerve itself. People with MS usually experience the decline function of nerve in gradually progress. Some common symptoms of MS are tingling sensations, problems associated with vision, muscle weakness, dizziness, sensory & motor disturbances, etc.
So far, there is no cure for MS! The goal treatments are usually more focused on how to minimize the symptoms, modify the disease’s course, and treat the attacks of the disease! In line with the treatments, doctors usually also ask their patients to do some home remedies, such as dietary intervention, exercise, keep cool down (certain activities exposed with hot temperature such as hot shower should be avoided), keep far away from stress, and get adequate rest!
What else you should know? Here are some popular facts about multiple sclerosis!
So far, there is no cure for MS! The goal treatments are usually more focused on how to minimize the symptoms, modify the disease’s course, and treat the attacks of the disease! In line with the treatments, doctors usually also ask their patients to do some home remedies, such as dietary intervention, exercise, keep cool down (certain activities exposed with hot temperature such as hot shower should be avoided), keep far away from stress, and get adequate rest!
What else you should know? Here are some popular facts about multiple sclerosis!
Multiple sclerosis symptoms early
The early symptoms vary from person to person. In many cases, the early MS symptoms may include:
- muscle spasms
- loss of balance
- weakness, particularly in one or both leg /arm
- numbness feeling
These symptoms are potentially condition to lead to difficulty walking.
Diagnosis
Some symptoms of MS also can be generated by other health problems (such as Lyme disease and HIV). Therefore, the diagnosis is not enough only based on the symptoms.
Doctors usually need to perform several tests to diagnose MS -- and MRI is one of the most common tests. Other common tests may include; blood test and spinal tab. Sometimes doctor may also perform evoked potential test to analyze the electrical activity of nerves.
MS vs. stroke
In line with the progression of the disease, people with multiple sclerosis are high risk of developing muscle weakness, slurred speech, and even confusion. But did you know that these also can be a warning sign of stroke?
For anyone who experiences these symptoms, she/he must be taken to the ER promptly to get the right medical assistance as soon as possible.
Multiple sclerosis causes and risk factors
The exact causes and factors that can put someone at higher risk of MS remain mysterious. Some studies found that the population of people with MS is more common in areas where are far from the equator (such as Northern Europe).
As well we know, sunlight has sunshine vitamin (vitamin D). Some experts believe that the intensity of sunlight may have contribution. There may be a link between autoimmune disorders (including MS) and deficiency of vitamin D. Furthermore, some studies also found that certain genetic may also put someone at higher risk of having MS.
Additionally, the age is another risk factor. MS is more common in people who are the age of 20-40s. But there are also a few cases of MS that occur in kids and teenagers.
Prognosis and life-expectancy
With the right treatments, the courses of the disease can be modified, the symptoms can be minimized, and the attacks also can be treated. You may also like to read multiple sclerosis life expectancy!
The correlation with weather
While (as mentioned before) the disease is relatively more common in the regions far from the line of equator, but there are also some studies found that it may be more sensitive or active in the summer days. High level of humidity and temperature during summer may make the symptoms get worse.
Furthermore, extremely changes in temperature of the local area may also contribute to aggravate the MS symptoms.
Should women with MS avoid pregnancy?
There is opinion that women with MS should avoid pregnancy because they may have higher risk of some pregnancy complications! Is it true?
Many doctors believe that pregnancy for women with multiple sclerosis is safe. Even some studies found that they are more likely to experience less MS symptoms during the period of their pregnancy. High levels of protein and pregnancy hormones may suppress the body’s immune system which then help reduce the chance of a new attack during pregnancy.
However, women with MS during pregnancy should get more attention! Discuss more with a doctor for more advices about this issue!
Exercise & multiple sclerosis
As written before, exercise is one of common home remedies for MS. With the right exercise, patients are more likely to be able to ease fatigue, stiffness, and another symptom! But make sure to do the exercise properly!
Excessive exercise should be avoided, because it is not helpful for the treatment -- but vice verse! Furthermore, the increased level of exercise should be done gradually in most appropriate steps. Some common exercises for people with MS may include; yoga, swimming, tai-chi (Chinese therapy), water aerobic, etc. Talk more with a professional trainer and doctor for more in-depth information!
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Reference: WebMD & MayoClinic
Image credit to ‘Huntstock’ for illustration
