Committed to bringing the latest in neurosciences and staying responsive to the needs of the community, we will soon launch our dream project with a new 100-bedded facility that will bring to the region much needed specialties such as Radiosurgery.
Did you know that 2 million young adults mostly women worldwide live with the most common neurological disorder- Multiple Sclerosis?
Everyone’s experience with MS is different and their symptoms can be temporary or long-lasting. MS patients should have knowledge of the seamless and correct management of the disease in order to improve their quality of life.
Multiple Sclerosis – also referred to as MS or encephalomyelitis disseminata – is an autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system, i.e., the brain and spinal cord. Inflammation and scarring around the nerve fibers gradually cause the nerves to become less able to carry messages from the brain to the body.
In the case of Multiple Sclerosis, when something goes wrong with the immune system, it attacks the layer that surrounds and protects the nerves called the myelin sheath.This damages and scars the sheath, and potentially the underlying nerves, causing messages traveling along the nerves to become slowed or disrupted.
The exact cause of MS is still unknown. But several risk factors for developing MS include:
The symptoms usually occur at the age of 20-40, slightly more often in women than men. The symptoms initially occur quite randomly and spread in the nervous system, and therefore it can be difficult to get the diagnosis in the first period, as the same symptoms also occur in many other diseases. But the most common symptoms are:
Inflammation and demyelination in the central nervous system cause the first episode of neurologic symptoms of CIS. The episode lasts for at least 24 hours and has characteristics of multiple sclerosis. But it does not yet meet the criteria for a diagnosis of MS because people who experience a CIS may or may not go on to develop MS.
Relapsing-remitting MS is characterized by clear relapses of disease activity followed by remissions. Symptoms are mild or absent during remission periods and there is mild to moderate disease progression. During remissions, either all symptoms disappear, or some symptoms may continue and become permanent.
15% of people with MS are diagnosed with PPMS. With Primary Progressive MS (PPMS), the neurological function becomes progressively worse from the onset of your symptoms.
When RRMS transitions into the progressive form, Secondary progressive MS (SPMS) will occur. You may still face noticeable relapses in addition to a disability or gradual worsening of function.
In addition to a neurological examination by the Neurologist, it is advised to carry out the following examinations for MS diagnosis:
The disease cannot yet be cured, but the individual relapses can be prevented by certain medication and if there happen to relapse on treatment, they can be shortened with medication, primarily corticosteroids.
The Multiple Sclerosis treatment may include:
You may have to adapt your daily life if you’re diagnosed with MS. But the right care, support, and motivation can give you active and healthy life. Following things needs to be taken care of while living with MS.
Support and care from family members can make a huge difference in the daily life of MS patients. Friends and family members can offer a helping hand in managing daily chores such as:
As your MS progresses, you may need help from someone beyond your family and friends. A few signs may be a tip-off that it’s time to start looking for in-home options such as a home nurse or housekeeper. Don’t hesitate to hire a home help if you have trouble with self-care tasks.
Each person’s journey with MS will be different. The best person to help an MS patient might be another person experiencing the same health conditions. Many organizations and online support groups for MS patients have been formed in the past years.
The MS support groups can be useful for the following purposes:
MS is a lifelong condition that gives unique challenges over time. Focus on communicating your concerns with your doctor, learn all you can about MS, and discover what makes you feel better.
Never give up. Stay positive even on your worst days of MS.
To know more about Multiple Sclerosis, book an appointment with our doctors.
Neuro Spinal Hospital is a pioneer by bringing the best and the latest in Medicine, Technology and Education to serve and heal the community.
