DESCRIPTION

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an illness diagnosed in over 350,000 persons in the United States today. Even now, much is to be learned about this still mysterious neurological illness. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 but the unpredictable physical and emotional effects can be lifelong. For unexplained reasons, MS is most commonly found in Canada, the United States, South America, and Europe. Near the equator MS is unknown. To date, no research has provided a definitive reason for this varying distribution.

What is known about MS - it is signified by more than one (multiple) areas of inflammation and scarring of the myelin in the brain and spinal cord. Myelin is the tissue that covers and protects our nerve fibers. When this occurs, nerve "communication" is disrupted. Thus, a person with MS experiences varying degrees of neurological impairment depending on the location and extent of the scarring. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision.

CAUSE

The cause of multiple sclerosis is not yet known. It is increasingly thought that a virus like HHV6 or a stealth-adapted virus may provoke the illness, but some researchers still question this idea. Genes, stress, and an imbalance in the immune system may also influence an individual to the illness.

It is tempting to speculate on a viral cause for MS because viruses are known to cause demyelinating disease in humans and animals. Demyelination (destruction of myelin—the fatty sheath the surrounds and insulates nerve fibers in the central nervous system), causes nerve impulses to be slowed or halted and produces the symptoms of MS.

Data from epidemiological studies, those that analyze variations in geographical, socioeconomic, genetic, and other factors — suggest that exposure to an infectious agent may be involved in causing MS. Some viruses are known to have a long latency period between time of infection and appearance of clinical symptoms, as is thought to be the case in multiple sclerosis.

Although many different viruses have been suggested to cause MS, there has not yet been definitive evidence linking any one virus to the autoimmune reaction that is believed to be the process responsible for the demyelination seen in MS. At one time or another, canine distemper virus, measles virus, herpes virus (HHV-6), rubella (or German measles) virus, HTLV-1 virus, and others have been reported to be associated with MS. With the possible exception of HHV-6 and stealth-adaptd viruses, later studies have not substantiated these reports, and there is no substantial proof yet that any of them cause MS.

Increased antibodies to many different viruses have been found in the sera and cerebrospinal fluid of people with MS. This may not necessarily represent disease-causing infection by these viruses, as it could be the result of non-specific immune activation. The role of a virus as a causative or triggering agent of MS remains speculative.

MS is not considered a fatal, contagious or directly hereditary illness, although a susceptibility to MS may be inherited. Prevalence in families of persons with MS runs somewhat higher than in the general population. Several investigations are underway into this question.

SYMPTOMS The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are giving hope to those affected by the disease.

MS is often characterized by a pattern of exacerbations and remissions. Some people experience only very mild symptoms with difficult, but non-disabling symptoms. More common are severe attacks followed by periods of recovery. Still others progress to a serious stage in which they may need a wheelchair. However, only 25% to 30% of persons with MS become disabled to the point where they may need a wheelchair.

Symptoms may vary widely. However, be alert to a combination of the following: Fatigue, which can sometimes be overwhelming; loss of coordination; muscle weakness; numbness; slurred speech; visual difficulties. More acute symptoms related to MS, but least occurring, include: muscle cramps; bladder or bowel problems; sexual dysfunction; paralysis.

Memory problems are fairly common among people with MS. Memory and reasoning problems may affect between two thirds and three fourths of those diagnosed with MS to varying degrees. However, one should consider other issues that may lead to memory problems such as depression, other illnesses, and normal absent-mindedness. If memory loss is a constant problem, there are certain "mnemonic" exercises that may help. Some treatments may be available to enhance cognitive functioning

As in most cases with the onset of an illness, depression is a frequent reaction. MS-related lethargy and fatigue may also be mistaken with depression or heighten its effects. Fortunately, medical and alternative treatment options are available to help people cope with difficult feelings. And counseling services are often very accessible.

DIAGNOSIS

In the beginning phases of the disease, diagnostic tests, such as MRI's, may be negative due to subjective sensory symptoms. These symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or fatigue, and will not be seen on diagnostic tests. This leads doctors to believe there is no illness or that anxiety is present. You should also know that a clinical diagnosis of MS might take years. Often a physician observes a person over a period of time before reaching a diagnosis of MS.

Sometimes, symptoms seem similar to MS, but could actually occur for a different reason. Symptoms of many illnesses may mimic MS and examples include:

1- Menier’s Syndrome — dizziness may occur, but in actuality could be from this inner ear ailment.

2- Stroke or drug abuse — may cause double vision.

3- Stroke; tumor; mononucleosis; neuritis (inflammation of the nerves, pinched nerve or compression);

4- Alcoholism; and psychological distress

All the above problems could lead to a misdiagnosis of MS if not carefully and skillfully examined. Pain, as a predominant symptom, is an example of a symptom that may indicate something other than MS. While some persons do experience pain, it is generally not the first and most obvious symptom of MS. Also keep in mind that MS occurs most often in women between the ages of 20 and 60 and is uncommon in black and Asiatic populations. While none of these criteria always hold true, they are points to keep in mind.

To effectively diagnose MS, you should work with a neurologist. There are tests that help the physician diagnose MS and more state-of-the-art tests continue to be developed.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scanner — The MRI scan is a pain-free, non-invasive test that may reveal abnormal areas previously invisible on the older Computer Tomography (CT) scans. Some abnormal areas (lesions) are plaques of demyelination, and others represent inflamed areas of tissue that may not be seen on follow-up scans. The MRI test uses a large electromagnetic radio frequency stimulator and computer to generate visual output.

A chemical compound, gadolinium, can also be administered during the MRI test to help distinguish new lesions from old ones. The MRI scan is not a single-source test, and others are generally used in conjunction to determine the MS diagnosis. MRI’s are not infallible, although they may be as high as 90% effective.

Lumbar Puncture or Spinal Tap — This test can involve some discomfort and is not a sole tool of diagnosis. However, it is used to reveal changes in the spinal fluid that will aid a diagnosis. With MS, changes may be seen in the white blood cell content or an increase or change of immunoglobulins and other substances in the spinal fluid.

Electrodiagnostic Tests — These tests measure the rate of nerve impulse conduction, which is generally much slower in nerve fibers as they pass through demyelinated plaques.

Visual Evoked Potential Test (VEP) — Measures the rate of conduction between the retina and the occipital lobe (visual area) of the brain.

Auditory Evoked Potential Test (AEP) — May help detect lesions in the brain stem, which may not be seen by the MRI.

If you are not sure you have MS, don't be afraid to ask questions and to find out more about feelings and symptoms. Do not let symptoms continue without further investigation.

If you are diagnosed with MS, either probable or definite, don’t panic. MS is not considered a fatal illness and most people continue to lead full and productive lives once they adjust to any symptoms of the illness. MS can be a very troubling illness and one that continues to hold many mysteries, but researchers are making many important finds to treat this illness.

TREATMENT

There are two basic courses to take when treating MS. One option is to try medicinal treatments. Many drugs are available to alleviate MS symptoms, but may also result in side effects. The second option is alternative healing modalities, commonly known as "holistic treatments." Many people find a combination of the two choices can achieve the best results.

Numbness is a bothersome problem, but may be managed with certain action. Exercise and a healthy diet may help those with MS alleviate symptoms of intermittent numbness. Numbness also depends upon its cause. If severe neurological damage to the myelin sheath takes place, then numbness may remain. Non-drug options to address numbness include body cooling, acupuncture, or pointed pressure therapy. Weighting, the addition of weights to areas of the body, may also help anchor some movements.

What we eat has a direct relationship on how we feel and function. Nutrition is a process of fueling our bodies and those with MS may have unique nutritional needs. Because MS is rarely found in areas near the Equator, or in Asian population, some theorize that their lower-fat dietary habits may be the reason for this. Many diets have, in fact, been suggested for the treatment of MS including diets free of allergens, gluten, or fat, and others. To date, the most accepted diet for those with MS is one low in fat.

RECOMMENDED READING

The National Institute of Health may provide a free booklet to the public on request. To order a single copy, send a note to: NIH, Clinical Center Communications, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bldg. 10, Room 1C255, Bethesda, MD 20892. The information is made available as part of the “Medicine for the Public” series.

MS: What It Is, Who Gets It, and What You Can Do About It. 1992 paperback book by Dr. Louis J. Rosner. ISBN: 0-671-778-099.

DR. BOWERS COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE HOME PAGE Extensive coverage of topics dealing with alternative therapies. Contains many links to help you negotiate the labyrinth of articles and other homepages offering info on alternative practices. http://www.people.virginia.edu/~pjb3s/ComplementaryHomePage.html

THE NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY Dedicated to ending the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. http://www.nmss.org

THE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of people coping with multiple sclerosis -- patients, their families, and friends. http://www.msaa.com

THE MYELIN PROJECT Working urgently toward myelin repair. http://www.myelin.org

DS MEDICAL The people at DS MEDICAL are committed to helping their customers maximize their daily-life capability and independence through the products and services they provide. Their goal is to help their customers achieve the freedom to live life to the fullest in a cost-effective manner. http://www.dsmedical.com

THE INSTITUTE FOR TRADITIONAL MEDICINE (ITM) Providing education, conducting research, while offering therapeutic programs with a focus on natural healing techniques, such as herbal formulas, acupuncture, massage, diet, nutrition, and general health care. http://www.itmonline.org

THE PERMUTTER HEALTH CENTER The unique approach offered by the Perlmutter Health Center recognizes the importance of the advances of modern medicine and utilizes these techniques fully. In addition, Dr. Perlmutter and his staff rely upon a variety of complementary health techniques including vitamin therapy, nutritional supplementation, herbal preparations, massage therapy, EDTA chelation therapy, and others to provide a comprehensive, fully integrated treatment plan specifically designed for the needs of the individual. http://www.perlhealth.com

MEDSUPPORT FSF INTERNATIONAL A 24 hour moderated medical and emotional support via interactive forums, chat, newsletters, and more. http://www.medsupport.org

MS ONE TO ONE A monthly one-sheet printed periodical...."It's a wonderful connection for people living with Multiple Sclerosis...." http://www.msonetoone.com