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Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease, which is a potentially disabling condition affecting the brain and spinal cord, i.e., the central nervous system. In this disease, the human immune system attacks the protective sheath covering nerve fibers, leading to problems with communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

When it comes to a disease like multiple sclerosis, symptoms vary and depend on the extent of nerve damage. Some individuals may lose the ability to walk, while others may experience long periods of remission without any new symptoms.

Treatment for multiple sclerosis can help modify the course of the disease and manage symptoms, but there is no cure for multiple sclerosis. In the following text, you will learn about the main symptoms and causes of this autoimmune disease, as well as whether and how multiple sclerosis can be treated.

Multiple sclerosis – symptoms and consequences that accompany the disease

Signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary significantly from person to person and throughout the course of the disease, depending on which part of the nerve fibers is affected. The disease often impacts mobility, and individuals with multiple sclerosis may frequently need wheelchairs to move around and lead the life they deserve.

Regarding multiple sclerosis, the consequences of disability can be most extreme. Multiple sclerosis does not necessarily completely impair mobility, but symptoms generally include weakness in one or more limbs, typically occurring on one side of the body.

Additionally, those with the disease often experience electric shock-like sensations with certain neck movements, particularly when bending forward.

Some symptoms of multiple sclerosis include fatigue, tremor, lack of coordination, unsteady gait, dizziness, fainting, slurred speech, and inability to conceive... Individuals may completely or partially lose vision, usually in one eye.

Visiting a doctor in time can significantly ease the patient's condition, so if you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a specialist – neurologist, speech therapist, physiatrist, psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, radiologist, ophthalmologist – to get a timely diagnosis and begin treatment.

What are the causes of multiple sclerosis?

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is still unknown. It is considered an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks its own tissues, specifically destroying the fatty substance that coats and protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord (myelin).

When the protective myelin is damaged, messages traveling along the nerve can be either slowed down or completely blocked. Nerves themselves can also be damaged. There is no clear evidence as to why multiple sclerosis occurs in some people and not others, but research suggests that women are more prone to the disease, particularly around the age of thirty.

This does not mean that the disease cannot appear earlier or later in men, and it is believed to occur between the ages of 16 and 55. It is suspected that genes are major contributors, especially if they are first-degree relatives. This is indeed one of the greatest risk factors.

Risk factors for the development of multiple sclerosis

In addition to genetics, gender, and age, there is a list of risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis:

• Certain infections – various viruses are associated with the occurrence of multiple sclerosis;
• Race – White people, especially those of Northern descent, are at a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis. People of African, Asian, or Native American descent have the lowest risk;
• Climate – Multiple sclerosis is more common in countries with temperate climates (Canada, northern parts of the USA, New Zealand, Australia, Europe);
• Smoking – Compared to non-smokers, smokers who experience the first symptoms of multiple sclerosis are more likely to develop a second phase of the disease;
• Vitamin D – Low levels of vitamin D in the body, as well as low exposure to sunlight, may be associated with a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis;
• Certain autoimmune diseases – Thyroid disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or type 1 diabetes.

Timely diagnosis of multiple sclerosis for more effective treatment

Multiple sclerosis is said to be the "great imitator" in neurology, as there is no specific diagnostic test for this disease, so all possible alternatives must be ruled out before diagnosis. Today, the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is made within two months of the patient's contact with the doctor, in accordance with globally accepted criteria.

The diagnosis is established based on detailed observation of the clinical picture and numerous supplementary test results. The answer to how multiple sclerosis is detected is magnetic resonance imaging.

With the help of magnetic resonance imaging of the head and spinal cord and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), it is possible to establish the diagnosis of this autoimmune disease and start treatment in time.

How is multiple sclerosis treated and is complete recovery possible?

When it comes to multiple sclerosis, treatment and therapies typically focus on speeding up recovery from attacks, as there are no cures for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis. Some people experience mild symptoms, so when the first signs of multiple sclerosis appear, they consult doctors and specialists, and treatment may not even be necessary.

Treatment of multiple sclerosis attacks includes using corticosteroids, either orally or intravenously. Additionally, plasma exchange can be used in treating this autoimmune disease, where the liquid part of your blood is removed and separated from the blood cells. Then, the blood cells are mixed with a protein solution and returned to the patient's body.

If the disease is diagnosed in time, there are many therapies for modifying the disease that carry significant health risks but can slow its progression. In addition to medical treatments, which vary from patient to patient, one can also opt for natural treatments for multiple sclerosis, if the degree of the disease allows it.

It is very important to relieve the body, mind, and organism from stress, which only promotes faster disease progression. For these reasons, it is ideal to visit therapeutic spas and rest so that the body can relax and be ready for treatment of this autoimmune disease.

Indeed, when it comes to multiple sclerosis, diet involving juice fasting is recommended for all patients, as juices restore energy and necessary vitamins to the body, making juice consumption one of the ways the immune system of those diagnosed with multiple sclerosis will gradually recover.

What is certainly recommended for everyone are physical activity and massages, which are often necessary for patients to adapt to orthopedic aids more quickly and easily. In addition, hydrotherapy and compresses are essential in the treatment of this autoimmune disease.

If you notice any signs that may indicate multiple sclerosis and if there is any risk of this autoimmune disease affecting your body, make sure to visit a doctor and undergo the necessary tests. For any type of treatment, it is essential to consult experts, follow their advice, and timely check the condition of your body.