Which statement about multiple sclerosis (MS is accurate)
Provide patients with a more accurate diagnosis and prognosis using specialized blood tests, magnetic resonance imaging, retinal optical coherence tomography (OCT), and genetic testing, leading to personalized care plans and ultimately to more effective treatment options for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Show
MissionDevelop new diagnostic and treatment options for MS. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-lasting (chronic) disease of the central nervous system. It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, a condition in which the body attacks itself by mistake. MS is an unpredictable disease that affects people differently. Some people with MS may have only mild symptoms. Others may lose their ability to see clearly, write, speak, or walk when communication between the brain and other parts of the body becomes disrupted. Myelin is a protein and fatty substance that surrounds and protects nerve fibers. In MS, the immune system attacks the myelin, which becomes destroyed in many areas. This loss of myelin forms scar tissue called sclerosis. These areas are also called plaques or lesions. When the nerves are damaged in this way, they can’t conduct electrical impulses normally to and from the brain. When MS causes repeated attacks, it's called relapsing remitting MS. When the symptoms progress over time without clear attacks, it's called primary progressive MS. What causes multiple sclerosis?There are many possible causes of MS, such as:
What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis?The symptoms of MS are often unpredictable. They may be mild or severe, short term or long lasting. They may appear in different combinations, depending on the area of the nervous system affected. The following are the most common symptoms of MS. But each person may have different symptoms. First symptoms of MS
Other symptoms of multiple sclerosis
About 50% of all people with MS have thinking (cognitive) problems linked to the disease. The effects of these problems may be mild. Your healthcare provider may only find them after much testing. The problems may be with:
Symptoms of MS are grouped as primary, secondary, or tertiary as described below: Primary symptoms. These symptoms are a direct result of the destruction of myelin:
Secondary symptoms. These are complications that may occur as a result of the primary symptoms, for example:
Tertiary symptoms. These are social, job-related, and psychological problems:
The symptoms of MS may look like other health problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is multiple sclerosis diagnosed?Not one specific test is used to diagnose MS. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and signs, imaging tests, and lab tests. A healthcare provider can make a diagnosis by following a careful process to rule out other causes and diseases. Two things must be true to make a diagnosis of relapsing remitting MS:
Your healthcare provider will ask about your health history and do a neurological exam. This includes:
You may also need:
How is multiple sclerosis treated?Treatment will depend on your symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Currently, treatments are divided into:
There is no known cure for MS. But you can do things to help change the course of the disease, treat flare-ups, manage symptoms, and improve your function and mobility. Treatments for the conditions seen with MS may include:
Rehab varies depending on your symptoms and how severe they are. MS rehab may help you to:
What are possible complications of multiple sclerosis?The complications of MS range from mild to severe. They can range from fatigue to the inability to walk. Other problems include loss of vision, balance, and bowel or bladder control. Depression can result from the difficulty of living with a chronic condition. Living with multiple sclerosisIt's important to take your medicines as directed. You may get help by taking part in a clinical trial. Using equipment like canes or walkers can help you get around as walking becomes harder to do. Rehab activities can also help you keep or get back functioning. Changing the way your home is set up can help you stay independent. Talk with your family and healthcare providers about what you need. Key points about multiple sclerosis
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
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