What is multiple sclerosis?
According to Dr. Mitalee Kar - Consultant Neurologist, CARE Hospital, Bhubaneswar (India), multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative disease that occurs when the immune system attacks the myelin layer that protects nerve fibers, causing inflammation, injury and scar tissue. This disrupts the communication between the brain and other parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as paralysis, muscle weakness, difficulty walking and vision changes. The disease can cause permanent nerve damage if not treated promptly.
Symptoms of MS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the area of the brain and spinal cord affected. Symptoms may appear suddenly or develop gradually over time. Here are some common symptoms:
Numbness or tingling: Usually in the hands, feet, or face due to nerve damage.
Lhermitte's sign: An electric shock sensation running down the spine when the neck is bent.
Difficulty walking and lack of coordination: Loss of balance, prone to falling.
Body weakness: Muscle weakness, affecting mobility.
Vision loss: Optic neuritis causes blurred vision or temporary loss of vision, along with pain when moving the eyes.
Double or blurred vision: Due to damage to the optic nerves.
Dizziness and lightheadedness: Due to damage to the parts of the brain that control balance.
Problems with urination, constipation, and sexual function: MS can disrupt these functions.
What is the link between menopause and MS?
Women going through menopause may experience hormonal changes that can exacerbate MS symptoms, says Dr. Mitalee Kar. The decline in estrogen during menopause can affect the nervous system, increasing the intensity and frequency of symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, and difficulty moving.
According to a recent study by scientists at UC San Francisco, California, USA, menopause can negatively impact cognitive function, mobility and walking ability in women, and accelerate the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). Accordingly, after menopause, the level of neurofilament light chain (NfL) in the blood increases, a sign of nerve cell degeneration, making MS worse.
