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Often called MS, multiple sclerosis is a central nervous system disease that attacks the myelin sheath, the insulating layer, of the body’s nerve cells and disrupts normal communication between the brain and body. As MS progresses, irreversible nerve damage can occur, causing debilitating problems like an inability to walk. More than 35,000 people in the US are registered as having MS through the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS).¹
Symptoms may include: • Sensations of electric shock when moving • Weak or numb limbs • Tremors • Difficulty walking • Vision problems • Fatigue • Dizziness
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Relapsing-remitting: The most common form; involves symptoms that arise over time and then eventually improve, separated by a period of disease remission. Secondary-progressive: A diagnosis given when relapsing-remitting progresses into steady symptoms with no remission periods. Primary-progressive: Gradual progression without periods of remission and relapse, not preceded by relapsing-remitting MS.
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Age: Though it can be diagnosed at any age, most individuals are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 50.¹ Sex: Women are diagnosed more often than men. From 2008-2010, roughly 70% of those diagnosed were women.¹ – Women are 2-3x more likely to be diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS.² Race: White Americans are diagnosed more often than African Americans, but African Americans appear to show more symptoms and may be less responsive to treatment.¹
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Location: MS incidence rates are higher among those living close to (within 40 degrees north or south of) the equator.¹ Family history: Individuals with a sibling or parent who has MS are more likely to be diagnosed themselves.² Remember, risk is a probability based on current data. Even those considered at very low risk should see their primary care doctor if they begin experiencing strange symptoms.
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Diagnostic imaging tests including CAT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds of head and neck blood vessels EEG tests to assess brain activity and muscle/nerve health Blood tests (primarily to rule out other issues) and spinal taps (to assess the cerebrospinal fluid)
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Medications such as corticosteroids (oral or injection), beta interferons (injection), infusion treatments, and other daily oral medications Plasma exchange Neurosurgery (deep brain stimulation) Physical therapy including exercises to stretch and strengthen the body for better mobility and overall function
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Crystal Run Healthcare connects patients to trusted physicians with various expertise. Our neurologists use state-of-the-art technology and treatments to help patients with neurological conditions like MS identify and manage their condition for the best possible quality of life. • You can easily book an appointment with many Crystal Run Healthcare physicians through the website or contact us if you need additional assistance.
1. https://mymsaa.org/ms-information/overview/who-gets-ms/ 2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc20350269
Summary Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological disease that can be frustrating and unpredictable. Learn more about what it is, who is at the greatest risk for developing it, and how it is treated.