Multiple Sclerosis– An Autoimmune Disorder

Many brain diseases can lead to debilitating effects such as multiple sclerosis ⁰¹ .

It’s important to know all about the condition and determine the extent of the problem before symptoms get worse. Early detection in several diseases like multiple sclerosis can alleviate the presenting effects. It will equally be helpful to find out the possible risks and causes so that preventive measures can be done as soon as possible. Some individuals are able to cope well even with the ill effects present. Here are some tips and guidelines.

Multiple Sclerosis: General Information

Multiple sclerosis is a debilitating disorder that primarily affects the central nervous system. The brain, spinal cord and nerves will deteriorate because of the disappearance or loss of the myelin. The myelin sheath functions as a protective covering for the nerves and will ensure that communication is maintained properly throughout the body. Messages are sent through electrical impulses throughout the system. If the myelin is deteriorating or absent, a variety of side effects can result. The nerves also easily get damaged so the person’s ability to function and perform tasks will also be impaired ⁰² .

Multiple sclerosis is one of the brain diseases that affect hundreds of thousands of individuals around the globe. Most patients are diagnosed with the condition from 20 to 50 years old. There are also cases with children or older adults involved. Caucasians seem to have be especially predisposed to the condition as well as women.

The Risks and Triggers of Multiple Sclerosis

The real cause of multiple sclerosis is not fully known. For many years, experts have been studying the development and effects of the disease . The immune system seems to play a role in the progress. As the main defense system in the body, particular actions are brought about by the immune cells to counter any invading microorganisms and other abnormal presence inside the body ⁰³ .

There are brain diseases described as autoimmune disorders wherein the immune system will attack the very parts or regions of the body. In this case, the myelin sheath is thought of as an intruder in the body so the immune cells will naturally attack these. Scientists say that the problem is very likely to be genetic and can be passed on from parent to child. As the nerves get damaged because of the absence of the myelin sheath, scars and plaques will develop and communication is hindered.

The Kinds of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis will present different symptoms depending on the type. When a person experiences an episode, the physical abilities of the individual will be hindered and the problems can range from mild to severe. The episode is referred to as exacerbation of multiple sclerosis and this usually spans 24 hours to 4 weeks ⁰⁴.

The initial episodes are referred to as the relapsing remitting type and then some symptoms will disappear. Some people will have another episode after several weeks while others might not experience symptoms until after a few years. There’s also the primary-progressive type which is described as a constant and slow deterioration of the physical abilities of the patient. The secondary progressive type will also show gradual decline of the patient’s physical abilities. Any of these types can be experienced by the person during the initial episodes although the severity and frequency will differ.

Multiple Sclerosis Symptom

There are different symptoms of multiple sclerosis to watch out for. Doctors will diagnose the patients thoroughly to rule out the presence of other possible brain diseases or autoimmune disorders. Some of the things to expect include muscle spasm, muscle pain, fatigue, weakness of the extremities, problems in balance and coordination, visual problems, lack of focus and concentration, poor memory, impaired decision making skills, inability to perform tasks and activities well, paranoia, depression, mania and laughing or weeping ⁰⁵ .

Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

The objectives of doctors when treating brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis is to improve the speed of recovery from episodes as well as slow down the development of the disease and worsening of the symptoms. DMDs are the primary medications used to hinder the fast progress of the condition. Patients are also recommended to join therapies and intervention programs that will help them regain strength and function. They can easily resume normal activities of daily living by cooperating with the given tasks. Family support will also be essential.