Can you explain multiple sclerosis as simply as possible?Nerve fibres are wrapped in layers of tissue made up of fat called myelin and these layers of insulation are called the myelin sheath. The sheath enables electrical impulses to be conducted along the nerve fibre quickly and accurately.
But when the myelin sheath is damaged, it distorts the normal way in which nerve impulses travel.
Multiple sclerosis is a disorder in which patches of the myelin and underlying nerve fibres are damaged or destroyed. The term sclerosis refers to the areas of scarring which occur following damage.
I have a family member and a friend who both suffer from MS yet their symptoms are completely different. Why is this?
MS produces symptoms which vary significantly from person to person depending on the site and extent of damage. If sensory nerves are affected then symptoms will be sensory in nature such as abnormal sensations, tingling, pain or burning. Sensory nerve damage can also produce problems with the eyes such as double vision or blurring, and other problems including vertigo or dizziness.
In contrast, damage to motor nerves can produce symptoms of weakness, difficulty walking, balance problems, tremor, stiffness, unsteadiness and fatigue. It can also lead to difficulty with control of urination or bowel control.
In addition, psychological problems associated with the condition include depression, mood swings and/or an inability to control emotions. To confuse the picture even more, MS can occur in different forms: progressive MS means the condition gets progressively worse over time; relapsing-remitting MS causes flare-ups (relapses) alternating with periods when the symptoms are stable (remission).
Can MS be treated ?
As no definitive cure has been developed for multiple sclerosis, treatment of the condition focuses on managing the changing symptoms associated with it.
Steroids are often used to relieve the acute symptoms. These work by suppressing the immune system and dampening down the inflammatory process associated with the disease. Other drugs such as Interferon have been shown to reduce the frequency of relapses and may help prevent or delay disability.
Other drugs are used to treat specific symptoms such as tremor, muscle spasm and psychological problems. The use of physiotherapy and occupational therapy also help to promote and maintain physical independence and functional ability.