top of page
Search

Multiple Sclerosis: An Overview

  • 2 days ago
  • 3 min read

Written by: Deepika Miryala

Edited by: Fahad Hassan Shah and Nadia Hall


Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that has an unfortunate lack of information despite its relative prevalence and unpleasant effects. However, research is beginning to shine light on its origins, consequences, and potential treatments. Several causes and risk factors involving environmental circumstances and life choices have been identified, and populations at heightened risk have also been identified. Additionally, researchers have observed the symptoms and impacts on physiology, allowing them to perform a comprehensive analysis of the mental and physical toll of MS on patients. Lastly, while no real cure has been developed, there are a multitude of treatment options available, involving both medications and therapies, and several lifestyle adjustments have been recommended by professionals for those with multiple sclerosis. These findings offer hope that knowledge of the condition will continue to expand with the ultimate goal of putting an end to multiple sclerosis.


Introduction

According to an article from Johns Hopkins Medicine, Multiple Sclerosis is considered a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its own central nervous system (n.d.). Specifically, a protein and fatty substance known as myelin that surrounds and guards nerve fibers with sheaths is damaged. The scar tissue that forms is called sclerosis; hence, the condition’s name. The affected nerves lose the ability to properly conduct electrical impulses, which is devastating to a person’s physiology.


Causes and Risk Factors

While the direct cause of MS is unknown, an online article by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society explains some hypotheses (n.d.). For instance, some research backs up the idea that MS patients have a certain combination of genes that can be triggered by environmental factors. To hone in on the causes, researchers are primarily looking at immunology, epidemiology, genetics, and infectious agents.


Additionally, some risk factors have been identified. The Cleveland Clinic describes how low levels of vitamin D, childhood obesity, smoking, and exposure to other toxins or viruses may increase the likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis (2024). Furthermore, studies suggest that people between ages 20 and 40, people of Northern European descent, and females may be more likely to struggle with the disorder. 


Symptoms and Effects on Physiology

A Mayo Clinic article outlines some of the symptoms, which include numbness, electric-shock sensations, poor coordination and overall weakness, vision problems, and fatigue (n.d.). On a neurological level, patients can experience mood swings, as well as problems with memory, thinking processes, and comprehending new information. 


Alongside these symptoms, there are other physiological effects of MS. A Healthline post reviewed by Dr. Heidi Moawad details how patients can experience sensory changes and have a hard time focusing (Hobbs, 2023). Dizziness and vertigo can occur, and people may overall be in a more confused state of mind. There can be a general sense of pain, particularly in the muscles, and normal speaking can be impaired. Finally, MS increases the chance of developing osteoporosis, or an abnormally low bone density.


Treatments

While there is currently no real cure for multiple sclerosis, there are ways to slow its progression and to relieve symptoms. Patients should have access to specialists such as an MS nurse, a neurologist, a physiotherapist, and an occupational therapist, who all provide a supportive team for managing symptoms. According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service, medicinal steroids can lessen swelling and ease nerve damage (2024). Relaxants can be a helpful solution for muscle pain and usage problems. Additionally, disease-modifying therapies can reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. 


In regard to overall life adjustments and therapies, the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s website shows that it offers options such as physical and speech therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, and the consideration of assistive devices. People living with MS should maintain a healthy diet and stay physically active. Additionally, those with the disorder should live as normally as possible and view MS as an obstacle, not something that will destroy their life. Experts recommend they keep working and spending time with loved ones, and make necessary home adjustments as needed. By supporting those with multiple sclerosis, we can work towards discovering preventative measures and cures for the disorder.


References


Cleveland Clinic. (2024, January 25). Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17248-multiple-sclerosis 


Critical Care Training Center. (n.d.). What Is Multiple Sclerosis? Critical Care Training Center. https://acls123.com/what-is-multiple-sclerosis/


Hobbs, H. (2023, August 10). The effects of multiple sclerosis on your body. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/effects-on-the-body


John Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Multiple Sclerosis (MS). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/multiple-sclerosis-ms



National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (n.d.). What Causes MS?. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/understanding-ms/what-is-ms/what-causes-ms


National Health Service. (2024, August 16). Multiple Sclerosis. National Health Service. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/multiple-sclerosis/


Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. (n.d.). Multiple Sclerosis Treatment. Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/brain-spine-neuro/multiple-sclerosis/treatment

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page