Multiple Sclerosis

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a *demyelinating disease. Inside the body, nerves communicate by sending messages through neurons. Neurons within the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system have a layer around the **axon called the myelin sheath. The myelin sheath allows messages to be sent quickly between neurons. When the myelin sheath sustains damage, messages between neurons become slowed or communication may stop altogether, resulting in the development of multiple sclerosis.

What causes multiple sclerosis? 

Doctors and researchers are not certain about the cause of multiple sclerosis, but there are a few theories about what factors may cause it. 

There are multiple factors that can lead to an increased chance of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. One of these factors is location; as people who live in colder regions, further away from the equator, are more likely to be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It is not clear why individuals who live in regions further away from the equator. However, geographical location can contribute to a higher chance of developing multiple sclerosis. 

Low levels of vitamin D have also been identified as a risk factor. Vitamin D can help ensure the immune system works properly and helps protect the body from abnormal immune system responses. Low levels of vitamin D are found in individuals who have not been exposed to sunlight, as those who live further away from the equator. 

Smoking is also a risk factor that increases the chances of individuals being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Research has shown that individuals who smoke have had a higher chance of developing multiple sclerosis and had a much faster progression.

How is multiple sclerosis diagnosis? 

There is not a specific test that is used to determine if an individual has multiple sclerosis or not. In order to diagnose someone with multiple sclerosis, a doctor will first rule out any other diagnosis that may be responsible for the symptoms. They will also look to see if they can locate damaged spots on the brain and determine the damage has been caused at different points in time. 

To determine if the brain has been damaged and when the damage has taken place, doctors will use different techniques and tools, such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI may be ordered so a doctor can closely examine the brain and spinal cord. A spinal tap may also be given to test the fluids in the spinal cord. 

Another test is an Electrical nerve test, which can be used to test how well the different senses are working. Also, blood tests can be used to help a doctor come to a patient’s diagnosis. Though these tests do not definitely tell the doctor if multiple sclerosis is present, it can help make the determination. 

Determining if an individual has multiple sclerosis or not can take some time. It is important to talk to your doctor and express any concerns or questions that may arise.

What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis? 

• Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs 
• Sensations in the neck 
• Vision issues 
• Weakness/fatigue 
• Bladder issues 
• Pains 
• Spams
• Lack of coordination 
• Dizziness

Types of multiple sclerosis? 

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)

Clinically Isolated Syndrome is an episode that mimics the symptoms of multiple sclerosis but does not meet all the criteria necessary for a diagnosis. Not all individuals who experience CIS go on to develop multiple sclerosis. 

Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is the most frequently diagnosed multiple sclerosis. RRMS is described as new or exacerbating neurological symptoms that have periods of full or partial remission. During the periods of remission, there may be minimal or no symptoms of multiple sclerosis, but the diseases do not worsen during these periods. 

Secondary progressive MS (SPMS)

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis is diagnosed after an individual who has relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis has begun to show more neurological deterioration over time. 

Primary progressive MS (PPMS)

Primary progressive multiple sclerosis is diagnosed when it is evident the symptoms are impacting neurological function without any periods of remission.

What organizations can help? 

• Multiple Sclerosis Association of America
  • The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America helps individuals get connected with free resources. They have a hotline that is available Monday-Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm. You can also chat with the organization online and get connected. 
• Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
  • “The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, known in the MS community as MS Focus, is a nonprofit organization focused on providing free services that address the critical needs of people with MS and their families, helping them maintain the best quality of life.” 
• National Multiple Sclerosis Society
  • The National Multiple Sclerosis Society focuses on making a place where individuals with an MS diagnosis, their friends, family, caretakers, professionals, and doctors can go to for support and information. 

*A demyelinating disease is any condition that results in damage to the protective covering (myelin sheath) that surrounds nerve fibers in your brain, optic nerves and spinal cord.

**An axon, also called nerve fiber, is a portion of a nerve cell (neuron) that carries nerve impulses away from the cell body.