Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the myelin sheath of the central nervous system. The most common age group for MS is between 40-60 and affects more women than women. The exact cause is unknown, however virus infections and genetics are strong suspects.
Symptoms vary from person to person which makes diagnosing the disease difficult and may take years. The reason for this is that, especially in the beginning the symptoms come and go and can be mild.
There are 4 types of MS which are characterized by neurological symptoms, changes on MRI, and disability. Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS) is an episode of neurological symptoms. A patient may show lesions on an MRI (will most likely have MS) or not (may not develop into MS). Relapsing Remitting MS (RRMS), will have attacks of neurological symptoms with complete or incomplete remission. The patient may be worsening over time and increasing in disability or there may not be progression of the disease following the relapses. Most patients with RRMS will eventually progress to Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS). There is evidence of accumulation of disability over time. Primary Progressive MS is characterized by a worsening of the neurological symptoms from the onset with early remissions or relapses. The accumulation of disability continues to increase over time.
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
- Balance problems
- Muscle weakness
- Blurred vision or sudden blindness
- Numbness and tingling
- Electric shock sensation when moving the neck
- Bladder and or bowel problems
- Nausea, vomiting
See more about symptoms and diagnosis of MS.
Treatments for MS
Conventional treatments include steroids and immunosuppressants. The problem with immunosuppressants is that they suppress your immune system making you more susceptible for infections or cancer. Steroids weaken bones, tendons and ligaments and also cause weight gain.
Alternative treatments can be very successful without the harmful side effects. Following an anti-inflammatory diet can affect one’s quality of life and reduce relapses, while slowing down the progression of the disease. Medical cannibas is used as an anti-inflammatory and natural pain remedy. Stem cell therapy is becoming more well know and patients are getting rapid results from this non-invasive therapy. Stem cell therapy is a powerful immuno-modulating treatment and is also anti-microbial. All of these treatments are available in our office. Contact us to schedule your appointment.