By Staff Writer
Multiple Sclerosis [MS] is one of the nervous system disorders that can lead to disability when the immune system attacks myelin, a protective sheath of nerve fibers. This situation will lead to communication issues between the body and the brain, gradually deteriorating nerves, or permanent nerve damage.
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic illness that can be mild but often leads to severe impairment, although most patients’ symptoms are treatable. People with MS have a significantly lower life expectancy. It’s more prevalent in individuals in their 20s and 30s, but it can hit anyone at any age. It affects around 2 to 3 times as many women as men. Sadly, MS is one of the leading causes of disability in young adults.
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
People who suffer from multiple sclerosis exhibit various symptoms that vary from person to person because of the disease’s nature. Also, the severity of the symptoms differs between individuals—two of the most common symptoms of MS are –
Fatigue
About 80% of individuals with multiple Sclerosis claim they frequently feel tired. MS-related fatigue can be frustrating, influencing functioning and performing daily activities.
Difficulty walking
Multiple Sclerosis also causes difficulty walking due to several reasons, such as
- Vision problems
- Balancing issue
- Weakness of muscles
- Muscle spasticity
- Numbness of feet and legs
Other symptoms of MS include –
- Tremors
- Acute or chronic pain
- Memory issues,
- Speech disorders
- Lack of concentration.
Recognized Risk Factors of Multiple Sclerosis
Some of the most commonly accepted risk factors of Multiple Sclerosis are listed below –
- Vitamin D
According to research by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society shared on their website, Vitamin D appears to play an essential role in MS. Reduced vitamin D levels are considered a risk factor for the onset of MS. Some researchers have suggested that the level of exposure to sunlight, as it is a natural source of Vitamin D, is a possible explanation for MS cases.
- Infectious Factors
Investigations are underway to determine the role of many bacteria and viruses like human herpesvirus-6, Chlamydia pneumonia, measles, and Epstein-Barr virus in multi sclerosis development.
- Smoking
According to Mattia Rosso’s Review on the “Association Between Cigarette Smoking and Multiple Sclerosis,” published December 16, 2019, at www.jamanetwork.com, MS risk factors increase depending on whether an individual smokes or not. If a person smokes, it may be that they are likely to experience a more severe form of MS with a faster progression of the disease. Moreover, research indicates that quitting smoking, whether before or after MS, reduces the illness’s development, as with many other conditions.
- Obesity
A recent study by Dr. Brenda Huppke, titled “Association of Obesity With Multiple Sclerosis Risk and Response to First-line Disease Modifying Drugs,” published July 15, 2019, www.jamanetwork.com, shows an association between obesity and multiple sclerosis risks among children. In early childhood, obese children have more chances of developing Multiple Sclerosis. Moreover, several studies suggest childhood obesity may lead to an increased risk of developing MS later in life. Obesity can also lead to inflammation and increased MS activity in people already affected by the disease.
Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis has no known cure, but it can be managed by:
- Decreasing the severity of relapses and slowing the progression of the MS
- Reliving symptoms
Different medicines or several disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) approved by the Food and drug administration help decrease disease progression. Patients receive DMTs through injectable and oral medications. Corticosteroids to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation is helpful to many people.
In conclusion, Multiple Sclerosis currently has no specific cure. In addition to the appropriately prescribed medications, the following are some things an individual can do to help manage the impact of MS on their lives –
- Eat a healthy, nutritious diet.
- Take regular exercise under professional supervision.
- Ensure adequate sleep every day
- Quit smoking
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Manage stress levels
