Disseminated Sclerosis

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disability affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is an autoimmune disorder, which means it develops when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its healthy tissues. In MS, the immune system begins to attack myelin, which is the fatty protective sheet that covers nerve cells in the CNS.

Types of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis can present itself in several different ways, including four main forms:

Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS): This is the most common form of MS, accounting for 85.8 percent of all MS cases. In this form, those with MS experience flare-ups of symptoms, followed by periods of remission when symptoms are minimal.
Secondary-Progressive MS (SPMS): With SPMS, relapse and remissions are still present, however the disease progresses without remission. Aggravating symptoms gradually increase over time, leading to a more disabling form of MS.
Primary-Progressive MS (PPMS): In this form, patients have a steady progression of symptoms from the outset, without the classic periods of flare-ups and remission that are seen in relapsing forms.
Progressive-Relapsing MS (PRMS): This form of MS is far less common, occurring in only 5 percent of people living with the disease. In this form, symptoms worsen over time, with acute flare-ups throughout the course of the disease.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis can vary depending upon the type and severity of the disease. The most commonly reported symptoms of MS include:

Muscle Spasms
Fatigue
Weakness
Pain
Vision Problems
Numbness
Cognitive Impairment
Tremors
Bladder/Bowel Problems
Balance Problems

Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis

Treatment for multiple sclerosis involves both drug therapy and lifestyle modification. Conventional drug and treatments can help reduce symptom severity, as well as slow the progression of the disease. These treatments may include:

Disease-Modifying Therapies
Corticosteroids
Anti-Inflammatory Agents
Immunosuppressants
Plasma Exchange (“Plasmapheresis”)
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Cognitive Therapy
Vitamin D Supplements