What is multiple sclerosis?
According to Dr. Mitalee Kar, Consultant Neurologist, CARE Hospital, Bhubaneswar (India), multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective layer of nerve fibers, called myelin, in the central nervous system (CNS). This leads to inflammation, damage and the formation of scar tissue ( scleroderma) in many areas of the CNS. The disease can cause progressive disability and have a long-term impact on the quality of life.
How does multiple sclerosis affect the brain?
Dr. Mitalee Kar says MS damage can occur anywhere in the central nervous system, including the brain. Inflammation and myelin damage cause disruption in the transmission of nerve signals, leading to a variety of symptoms depending on the affected area. Over time, this condition can lead to myelin loss and nerve cell damage, affecting many functions of the body.
Neurological symptoms of multiple sclerosis
According to Dr. Mitalee Kar, the symptoms of multiple sclerosis are very diverse and can vary depending on the stage and extent of damage to the nervous system. Common symptoms include:
Fatigue: Feeling extremely tired, often occurring.
Perceptional changes: Memories, attention problems, information processing, and problem-solving.
Vision disorders: blurred vision, double vision, eye pain, or loss of eye movement.
Feeling changes: Feeling numb, tingling, or needles in different parts of the body.
Muscle weakness and stiffness: Muscle weakness, difficulty coordinating, muscle stiffness and muscle spasms that are not autonomous.
Balance and coordination problems: Difficulty maintaining balance, unstable travel and difficulty coordinating.
Pain: May have neuropathic pain (heating, throbbing) or musculoskeletal pain ( pain, cramps).
Bowel and bladder dysfunction: Constipation, diarrhea, urgent urination or difficulty urinating.
Emotional changes: Depression, anxiety, mood swings, and emotional instability.
Treatment of multiple sclerosis
Although there is currently no complete treatment for multiple sclerosis, there are many treatment methods to help control the disease and reduce symptoms. Treatment goals include:
Reduce inflammation: Treatment to reduce inflammation in the central nervous system.
Control recurrence: Reduce the frequency and severity of recurrence.
Slow the progression of the disease: Prevent the development of the disease and protect nerve function.
Improve quality of life: Help patients maintain their daily lives and minimize symptoms affecting work and personal life.
Note
MS is a dangerous autoimmune disease that can cause serious neurological problems. Although there is currently no definitive treatment, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help reduce symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. If you notice symptoms of multiple sclerosis, consult your doctor for timely examination and treatment.
