Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can occur at any age, but the beginning can usually start around the age of 20 to 40 years of age. It can also affect younger and older people as well. Every day, people living with MS do whatever it takes to move their lives forward despite the many challenges. This week in March, by sharing stories, helping people better understand life with MS, and become inspired to do whatever it takes to change the world for people living with MS is hopefully achieved in this awareness week.
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What is MS?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. A disease that impacts the brain and spinal cord which make up the central nervous system and controls everything we do. The exact cause of MS is unknown, but we do know that something triggers the immune system to attack the brain and spinal cord. The resulting damage to myelin, the protective layer insulating wire-like nerve fibers, disrupts signals to and from the brain. This interruption of communication signals causes unpredictable symptoms such as numbness, tingling, mood changes, memory problems, pain, fatigue, blindness and/or paralysis. Everyone’s experience with MS is different and these losses may be temporary or long lasting.
With MS, damage to the myelin coating around the nerve fibers in the central nervous system (CNS) and to the nerve fibers themselves interferes with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body. Disrupted nerve signals cause the symptoms of MS, which vary from one person to another and over time for any given individual, depending on where and when the damage occurs.
The diagnosis of MS requires evidence of at least two areas of damage in the CNS, which have occurred at different times.
Common early signs of multiple sclerosis (MS) include:
• Vision problems
• Tingling and numbness
• Pains and spasms
• Weakness or fatigue
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Bladder issues
• Sexual dysfunction
• Cognitive problems
Treating MS
Comprehensive MS care begins with the diagnosis and lasts a lifetime. Learning how to work with a healthcare team to reduce disease activity, manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. Managing MS is an ongoing process, beginning with the very first symptoms and continuing throughout the disease course. It’s never too soon or too late to think about how to access high quality, comprehensive, interdisciplinary care. Knowing what to look for, where to find it, and how to work effectively with your doctor and other health professionals is essential to your health, wellness and quality of life.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!