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Multiple sclerosis is a long-term autoimmune disease that can affect the central nervous system, i.e. the brain and the spinal cord. This disease can affect your vision, balance, muscle control and other functions of the body. The effects of this disease differ from patient to patient.
Eventually, this disease can permanently damage the nerves in the body.
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder which occurs when the body’s immune system starts attacking its own tissues. The immune system of our bodies is responsible for defending the body from external viruses and bacteria. Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system of the body starts attacking its own cells.
In the case of multiple sclerosis, the malfunctioning immune system starts destroying myelin, which is the fatty substance that protects the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. It is much like the insulation covering electrical cables. Once the myelin is damaged the nerves are exposed and may get damaged, which in turn affects the messages that travel through the nerve to the brain and back.
People who are more prone to multiple sclerosis include:
The signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary from patient to patient. Some patients show experience almost negligible symptoms, others experience severe symptoms. The symptoms depend on the location of affected nerve fibers.
Some signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:
If you suffer from any of the symptoms you need to visit a general practitioner. Based on the severity of your symptoms, and the test results he may refer you to a neurologist.
The tests that the doctor may advise you to undertake are:
The complications of multiple sclerosis include:
Although there is no permanent cure for multiple sclerosis, the doctor may prescribe medicines which can help you manage the symptoms of the disease. These medicines curb the immune system and prevent flare-ups and slow down the advance of the disease.
If the symptoms are too severe, such as severe tremors, the doctor may suggest you undergo surgery which can help control the symptoms.
Exercising is good not only for your overall wellbeing but also for managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Before you decide on an exercise regimen, it is suggested you consult your doctor to find out what kind of exercise will suit you the most.
Exercises such as swimming, water aerobics, strength training, balance training can be very effective to prevent the advance of the disease.
Multiple sclerosis, a disabling disease which strikes mostly young people, is fast becoming a cause for worry in India.
Around 70-80 percent of patients were in the age group of 18-35 years.
It is estimated that there are between 100,000-2,00,000 MS patients in India.
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