Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord (central nervous system).MS causes the immune system to wrongly attack myelin, the substance that makes up the protective sheaths (myelin sheaths) that coat the brain and spinal cord nerves. Myelin sheath damage disrupts the messages (signals) your nerves convey throughout your body to carry out functions such as vision, feeling/sensation, movement, and balance.

MS is a lifelong condition that can sometimes result in severe disability, although in some people, it can cause mild symptoms with little to no disability.It can appear at any age but is mostly diagnosed in people between 20 to 40 years old. It is also known as the most common disabling neurological disease of young adults.MS is two to three times more common in women than in men.

What are the types of multiple sclerosis (MS)?

There are four types of MS:

1. Relapsing-remitting MS: The most common type of MS that causes flare-ups (relapses or attacks) of new or old symptoms, followed by periods of remission (disease inactivity). Weeks, months, or years could pass before another MS attack occurs, followed again by a period of inactivity.
2. Secondary progressive MS: Symptoms develop gradually and steadily and deterioration in their function over time. Most people with severe relapsing-remitting MS eventually progress to secondary progressive MS.
3. Primary progressive MS: Symptoms may begin slowly and progress over time, with no visible relapses or exacerbations of the disease.
4. Progressive-relapsing MS: The least common type of MS which is marked by a continuous deterioration of symptoms from the outset, accompanied by occasional acute flare-ups that can occur throughout the progression of the illness.

What are the symptoms of MS?

• Fatigue
• Trouble walking
• Vision problems, such as blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Problems with bladder control
• Numbness or tingling in different parts of the body
• Muscle weakness, stiffness and spasms
• Loss of balance and coordination
• Problems with thinking, learning, and planning 
• Mood changes

What are the risk factors?

The risk factors of MS may include:

• Age: Between the ages of 20 and 40 years
• Gender: Female
• Genetic susceptibility 
• Infectious factors and viruses: Epstein-Barr virus
• Environmental factor: Less exposure to sunlight

How is MS diagnosed?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnosis is a complex process that does not depend on a single test. Instead, confirmation typically arises when symptoms correlate with various parts of the nervous system at different times, following the exclusion of alternative diagnoses. This process relies on careful consideration, comprehensive evaluation, and medical expertise to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Physicians employ a range of tests to either confirm or eliminate the diagnosis. Alongside a comprehensive medical history and physical and neurological examinations, doctors may suggest:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain and spinal cord
• Lumbar puncture
• Evoked potential test
• Blood tests

How is MS treated?

There is no cure for MS. The goals of MS treatments are to minimise the frequency and intensity of relapses, as well as delay the long-term disability caused by the disease.

• Physical, occupational or speech therapy.
• Mental health counselling.
• Medications.
• Corticosteroids such as methylprednisolone reduce inflammation by suppressing the immune system. These drugs can help patients recover quickly after an attack and reduce damage to the myelin sheath.
• Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) such as beta interferons lessen the frequency of relapses, slow the course of MS, and prevent new lesions from growing on the brain and spinal cord.

What is the life expectancy of multiple sclerosis?

While MS itself is seldom fatal, severe complications can arise, such as chest or bladder infections or swallowing difficulties.

The average life expectancy for individuals with MS typically falls around 5 to 10 years below the general average. However, this discrepancy seems to be narrowing over time.

Make an appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Remember, while MS presents challenges, it does not define you. By taking proactive steps and staying connected, you can live a fulfilling life despite the challenges posed by MS.

Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have concerns or questions regarding multiple sclerosis (MS). A dedicated and expert team of neurologists at Pantai Hospitals is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.