Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition or a disease which chronically affects the nervous system and primarily the nerves. The nerves are lined by a protective covering or a sheath which is called as the ‘Myelin’ sheath. In individuals affected with Multiple Sclerosis, this myelin sheath is either damaged or lost affecting the nerves. Multiple Sclerosis is a considered as an autoimmune disease where the myelin sheath is attacked by the immune system exposing the nerve.
Who is at an increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS) ?
Individuals who have a weakened immunity or are affected with an autoimmune disease are at an increased risk of developing Multiple Sclerosis. Few other risk factors are mentioned below.
- Age range between 15-60 years of age
- Females are affected more than males
- Family History
- Sibling History
- Certain Viral infections (Epstein-Barr virus especially)
- Temperate climate
- White race
- Smoking habits
What is the peculiarity of multiple sclerosis (MS) ?
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease which relapses and remits, meaning the symptoms are usually episodic which are developed over weeks or months and then are followed by remissions for long periods, sometimes even years. Even a small rise in body temperature can aggravate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The individuals who do not experience these relapsing-remitting episodes develop into Primary-Progressive Multiple Sclerosis with a steady progression of the disease. The individuals who have this, relapsing-remitting episodes of Multiple Sclerosis develop a condition called as Secondary-Progressive multiple sclerosis over a period of time with worsening of the symptoms. Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis is made by an array of diagnostic tests and investigations which will be discussed after understanding the signs and symptoms of the condition.
What are the signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) ?
Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease and the intensity and gravity of experienced symptoms depends on the amount of nerve damage that is already caused. The signs and symptoms may include the below mentioned.
- Weakness or numbness in the lower extremities of one side of the body which is affected
- Weakness or numbness in the trunk region
- Tingling sensation in the body’s various parts
- Slurring of speech
- Generalized fatigue
- Feeling of fainting or dizziness
- Bladder and bowel function impairment
- Difficult in walking/ unsteady gait
- Jerky movements of neck due to electric-shock sensations
- Pain in the eye or loss of function of the eye
- Paralysis of legs might occur in later stages
- Depression
- Forgetfulness
- Epileptic seizures
- Muscle spasms or stiffness
These are the most frequently experienced symptoms by an individual who is affected by Multiple Sclerosis, and they can completely differ from individual to individual.
How is the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) made ?
Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is made thorough physical and clinical examination with certain investigative procedures which help in identifying which part of the brain or the central nervous system or the spinal cord is affected, the damage should have occurred in various parts in a month’s gap and diagnosis is made by exclusion (eliminating other possible diagnoses).
Blood tests may be done to rule out other possible conditions. The algorithm that is followed for the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis includes the below mentioned tests.
- Detailed neurological examination by a specialist
- MRI Scan of Brain/spinal cord/ Central nervous system
- Evoked Potentials Study (to check the electric response)
- Spinal Tap Procedure or Lumbar Puncture to study the cerebrospinal fluid
Your treating neurologist might do certain other investigations to rule out other conditions or to confirm multiple sclerosis. The diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis is made by variety of test which either confirm Multiple Sclerosis or eliminate it. The involvement of the patient is very important while diagnosing multiple sclerosis , hence the patients should discuss their symptoms and experiences in detail with the treating doctor or the neurologist to help them in making the appropriate diagnosis.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
