New information about Multiple Sclerosis is uncovered by experts every day. Learn more about the shocking symptoms experienced by those with Multiple Sclerosis, an autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system.
Although there are many risk factors and symptoms attributed to multiple sclerosis, there are also several treatment options and medications available to help mitigate the damage caused by this disorder.
Multiple Sclerosis: Early Warning Signs of MS
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS)² states that MS is an autoimmune disorder which damages myelin, an insulating layer around nerve fibers which disrupts nerve functions and can cause permanent damage.
NMSS³ reports that issues with vision are a common early warning sign of MS
Eyesight issues are sometimes caused by optic neuritis or inflammation in the optic nerve which can result in blurry vision, dark spots, or complete loss of vision in one eye. Moreover, diplopia or double vision can also occur. However, most of these eyesight issues are treatable. Other early warning signs of multiple sclerosis include tingling in legs, arms, and face that starts out mild but get worse with time.
Additional early symptoms of MS include:
1. Fatigue
2. Dizziness or difficulty breathing
3. Cognitive issues
4. Muscle spasms
5. Bladder issues
Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis
MS is not easy to diagnose. Doctors will usually try to rule out other autoimmune disorders or things such as Lyme. An MRI of the brain and spinal cord is a good way to check for demyelination, according to Healthline,⁴ which is a sign that the body is attacking the myelin protecting the nerve fibers.
Performing a lumbar puncture and collecting cerebrospinal fluid with a hollow needle might also be necessary to diagnose MS. After extraction, the fluid is tested for increased IgG antibodies levels, but a higher than usual white blood cell count can also be indicative of multiple sclerosis.
Lastly, an evoked potential test might be necessary as it measures the brain’s electrical activity and can pick up slower optical nerve transmission – a symptom that might point to MS.
Treating Multiple Sclerosis
Currently, MS is incurable; one can only manage symptoms and avoid flare-ups. MultipleSclerosis.net⁵ reports that DMDs can help avoid frequent flare-ups and slow down damage to spinal cord and brain.
In most cases, inflammation causes symptoms of MS so patients often take corticosteroids for their flare-ups. If one cannot take corticosteroids, they can try plasma exchange therapy. There’s also many medicines that can help with fatigue, bladder issues, and muscle spasms. Chronic pain and muscle issues are often helped with physical therapy.
In addition to mainstream treatments, MS patients can try alternative therapies such as:
1. Massage
2. Vitamins
3. Meditation
4. Natural Supplements
5. Acupuncture
Stress can trigger MS flare-ups, so meditation and massage can be very helpful, but always consult the doctor first, especially if someone is thinking of stopping conventional treatments.
Conclusion
Multiple sclerosis is exhausting, both mentally and physically, but one can live a relatively normal life with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. In any case, it’s good to research online and find out about all the latest treatments that are available as it’s the quickest and easiest way to find out about all the important pros and cons.
[1] Debra Sullivan. “Multiple Sclerosis: Facts, Statistics, and You.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/facts-statistics-infographic#1
[2] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. “Definition MS” https://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS/Definition-of-MS
[3] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. “Vision Problems.” https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms/Vision-Problems
[4] Cynthia Taylor. “Tests for Multiple Sclerosis.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/tests-diagnose
[5] “Treatment.” MultipleSclerosis.net. https://multiplesclerosis.net/treatment/