An Overview of Multiple Sclerosis
Misti Proenza
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system that affects over 2.3 million people worldwide. By the same token, women are two to three times more likely to develop MS compared to men.
This autoimmune disease causes the fatty protection and coating of nerve fibers called myelin to become destroyed in the brain and spinal cord. Despite the first known case of Multiple Sclerosis taking place in the 19th century, direct causes are unknown. However, there are plenty of risk factors, including age, sex, family history, certain infections, race, vitamin D levels, the climate one grew up in, lifestyle habits, and the existence of other autoimmune diseases.
Furthermore, some symptoms may entail vision problems, muscle stiffness or spasms, sensitivity to certain weather conditions, cognitive or mental changes such as memory loss and mood swings, paralysis (most commonly endured in the legs), depression, and epilepsy. MS is a complex disease in which people may have completely different experiences from mild to severe that typically do not affect lifespan but can in some instances.
Continually, being ages twenty to fifty and a smoker gives one a higher chance of being diagnosed with MS. Low vitamin D levels, especially in those born and raised in colder climates, allow one to have a higher chance of developing Multiple Sclerosis. The inhabitation of certain infections such as Mononucleosis puts people at risk of developing Multiple Sclerosis. To clarify, Multiple Sclerosis is not contagious in any manner whatsoever.
Multiple Sclerosis can be diagnosed in a number of different ways. The most common method one is diagnosed with is an MRI which, in this case, is an imaging test used for the brain and spinal cord.
There are several types of MS, relapsing-remitting MS being the most common, where four out of five people with MS suffer from this specific type. Relapsing-remitting MS is a type of Multiple Sclerosis with consistent alternating periods of symptoms and recovery. Those in the recovery period can lead an ordinary life with caution, such as not being exposed to extreme temperatures, whether warm or cold, avoiding bright or strobing lights that may trigger sudden seizures, and utilizing a walking aide if or when needed.
Prevention of MS is very limited. Although, one should stick to leading a healthy lifestyle, including having a balanced diet, exercising regularly, going to regular checkups, avoiding substances such as tobacco, and contacting a doctor if one is exhibiting symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis or any other type of illness.
Health is one of the many aspects of life that creates happiness. While Multiple Sclerosis can be debilitating and painful, there are ways to manage and treat MS with proper treatment plans such as physical therapy and the prescribed medication. Through treatment, one can continue living a relatively normal and happy life, especially if symptoms are on the mild to moderate spectrum.
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