Multiple sclerosis: learn the basics

Multiple sclerosis is a disorder of the central nervous system that can lead to several disabling conditions later on in life, such as temporary paralysis, slurred speech, cognitive problems and difficulty moving. Multiple sclerosis occurs when the body's immune system attacks the fatty, protective layers of nerve fibers in the central nervous system. The fibers scar over, and the scar tissue can interrupt the body's electrical signals throughout the brain, spinal cord and optical nerves. The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown, and there is no cure for the disorder. However, patients can live long, nearly normal lives by undergoing treatments of therapy and medication.

Multiple sclerosis: difficult to diagnose

People who have multiple sclerosis experience a wide range of problems, such as difficulty walking, blurred or double vision, slurred speech, loss of balance, mood swings, cognitive difficulties and tingling or numb sensations in different parts of the body. With this in mind, it seems like doctors should be able to easily diagnose the presence of multiple sclerosis. However, that couldn't be further from the truth.

The problem with diagnosing multiple sclerosis is there are no symptoms that point specifically to the disorder itself. The most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis are shared by numerous other health conditions. Also, there is no screening test that can pinpoint whether someone has multiple sclerosis. As a result, many people with this disorder experience problems for years without being properly diagnosed and treated.

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis requires doctors to search for damage to a person's central nervous system. This is best accomplished using an MRI, or by recording the electronic signals sent through a person's brain or spinal cord. An MRI can detect legions or tissues indicative of some sort of damage, while irregularities in the body's reactions to stimuli can indicate interruptions in the central nervous system – another sign that damage has occurred. If a person has sustained damage to his or her central nervous system in more than one place – and if that damage happened outside of a month apart – then a diagnosis can possibly be made that the patient has multiple sclerosis.

Treating multiple sclerosis

Numerous types of therapies and medications are available to help people cope with multiple sclerosis. During periods of acute attacks, people can receive intravenous anti-inflammatory drugs that help bring their attacks to faster conclusions, minimizing further damage to their central nervous systems. New medications are available that may slow the progression of multiple sclerosis. Physical therapy, speech therapy, vocational therapy and other types of therapy can help patients cope with various degrees of decreased neurological functionality.

There is no cure for multiple sclerosis. However, clinical researchers are constantly working on new therapies and medications to help patients live longer, healthier and happier lives.