Understanding Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that impacts the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord (central nervous system). It causes the immune system to mistakenly attack myelin, the substance that creates the protective sheaths (myelin sheaths) that cover the brain and spinal cord nerves. Damage to the myelin sheath interferes with the messages (signals) your nerves convey throughout your body to perform functions like vision, feeling/sensation, movement, and balance.

Types of MS

MS is a chronic condition that can occasionally lead to serious disability, although some people may only experience mild symptoms with little to no disability. There are four types of MS you should know about:

1. Relapsing-remitting MS: The most common form of MS characterised by flare-ups (relapses or attacks) of new or recurring symptoms, followed by periods of remission (disease inactivity). Weeks, months, or even years may pass before another MS attack occurs, followed by another period of inactivity.
2. Secondary progressive MS: Symptoms develop slowly and steadily, leading to a decline in function over time. Most people with serious relapsing-remitting MS eventually transition to secondary progressive MS.
3. Primary progressive MS: Symptoms may start slowly and worsen over time, without clear relapses or exacerbations of the disease.
4. Progressive-relapsing MS: The least common form of MS is characterised by a continuous decline in symptoms from the outset, with occasional acute flare-ups that may happen during the course of the disease.

Symptoms

MS symptoms include fatigue; having trouble walking; vision problems, such as blurred vision; dizziness; bladder control issues; a sensation of numbness or tingling in different body parts; weakness, stiffness, or spasms in the muscles; lack of balance and coordination; thinking, learning, and planning issues; and changes in mood.

Risk factors

MS can occur at any age but is mainly diagnosed in individuals between 20 to 40 years old. It is also known to be the most common disabling neurological disease among young adults. MS is two to three times more prevalent in women than in men.

Other risk factors include genetic vulnerability, exposure to infectious factors and viruses, such as the Epstein-Barr virus, and environmental factor, such as less exposure to sunlight.

Diagnosing MS

Diagnosing MS is a complex procedure that cannot be determined through a single test. Confirmation usually emerges when symptoms correspond with various parts of the nervous system at different periods, after ruling out other diagnoses. This procedure depends on mindful consideration, thorough evaluation, and medical expertise to secure a precise diagnosis and suitable treatment. 

Physicians conduct several tests to either confirm or eliminate the diagnosis. Together with an extensive medical history, and physical and neurological examinations, doctors may suggest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain and spinal cord, lumbar puncture, evoked potential test, and blood tests.

Treating MS

There is no known cure for MS. What MS treatments aim to achieve is to decrease the rate of occurrences and severity of relapses, together with delaying the long-term disability triggered by the disease.

Treatment options include:

1. Physical, occupational, or speech therapy.
2. Mental health counselling.
3. Corticosteroids (methylprednisolone) to reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system. They can provide patients with a swift recovery after an attack and lessen the damage to the myelin sheath.
4. Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) like beta interferons decrease the occurrence of relapses, delay the progression of MS, and inhibit the growth of new lesions on the brain and spinal cord.

Life expectancy

MS is rarely a life-threatening condition, but serious complications can still occur, such as chest or bladder infections or difficulties in swallowing. The average life expectancy for people with MS usually ranges around 5 to 10 years shorter than the general population. However, this gap appears to be decreasing over time.

Schedule an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

It is undeniable that MS poses some challenges in your life but remember that it does not define who you are. You can still lead a meaningful life by adapting to changes in your life and staying connected, despite MS hurling obstacles in your way. 

Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have concerns or questions regarding multiple sclerosis (MS). A dedicated and expert team of neurologists at Gleneagles Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.