Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is not known. Research is still going on in this regards. It is considered to be an autoimmune disorder, in which the body’s own immune system destroys the myelin sheath. Genetic factor and a strong family history is the major contributing factor. Certain viral infections in the childhood or mix viruses predisposed to the onset of MS, Diabetes mellitus or other metabolic diseases are the triggering factors.
Symptoms
Multiple sclerosis can lead to variety of symptoms. Symptoms are seen depending upon the nerves affected. Numbness or weakness of the extrimities, one sided paralysis are the characteristic symptoms. Electric shock like pains or tingling can be felt. The speech becomes slurred, or loss of speech, the patient complaints of disturbed vision or blurred vision. The patient can also suffer from complete loss of vision. Fatigue, dizziness and loss of control on bowel and bladder movements are associated symptoms. Multiple sclerosis can lead to epileptic attack, spasms and depression. Co ordination and balancing becomes difficult. There is inability to walk. Flare-ups are common with period of remissions. It is disabliling and unpredictable condition.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the neurologist.MRI and CT scan of the brain and spinal cord, Lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid examination are the diagnostic features. Certain other investigations like routine blood test, Lipid profile, blood sugar levels, renal and liver function test can be suggested.
Treatment
There is no specific cure and treatment for multiple sclerosis. Symptomatic relief is the main line of treatment. Corticosteroids are administered. Cases which do not respond to steroids plasmanephersis are done. Medications are administered for treatment of other symptoms seen. Physical therapy exercises that will strengthen the muscles is done.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms
Recent update:
A recent study published in the European Journal of neurology has suggested that Individuals with multiple sclerosis may have an increased risk of developing any type of cancer, with an especially high risk of developing breast cancer.
