Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive, chronic condition. It was first identified in 1868 by Jean Martin Charcot, who identified his initial MS symptoms – diagnosis standards. However, although the condition has been known about for more than a century, it continues to baffle the medical community. The disease devastates lives, as the body starts to attack itself, leading to plaques and lesions on the brain and spinal cord.
MS Symptoms – Diagnosis – The Start:
One of the major problems with MS is that it is hard to catch early. There are over 50 signs and symptoms of MS, but the majority are undetectable, or more likely to point to another illness instead. This is why most people don't actually get medical attention until they start to experience severe symptoms. Furthermore, because the symptoms are so much more likely to be indicative of something else, it can take a very long time for someone to receive a diagnosis.
Unfortunately, the only way to properly perform an MS symptoms – diagnosis check is to actually find lesions on the myelin sheath. This is responsible for the protection of both the brain and spinal cord. However, there are some signs and symptoms that, when experienced together, can be indicative of MS and should prompt a physician to at least investigate the condition. These are:
1. Loss of coordination and balance
2. Numbness or tingling sensations in the arms and/or legs
3. Lack of strength in arms and legs
4. Vision problems, such as blurred vision, optic neuritis, and/or double vision
The above four are very commonly experienced by MS sufferers, although they can be equally indicative of other neurological problems as well. As such, when a patient presents with these issues, MS will generally not be the first consideration. However, if they also present with any of the following symptoms, it becomes more likely that MS is at play:
1. Speech problems or slurred speech
2. Sudden muscle paralysis that slowly dissipates
3. Loss of mental acuity
4. Loss of fine motor skills
If you, or someone you care about, experiences any of these symptoms, you must see a physician as soon as possible. Do request a CAT and MRI scan to find out what is going on. Unfortunately, there is not a single definitive test for MS, which remains a poorly understood condition, but these images can help to show plaque buildups and lesions. These lesions and buildups are believed to cause the symptoms of MS and the sooner they are detected, the better a treatment plan can be devised to force the disease back into remission. It is not impossible to live for many decades with MS, with a reasonable degree of quality of life, so long as it is properly managed.
There are a number of publications out there that link multiple sclerosis to nutrition. It is believe that some foods could make your body attack itself even more. Hence, those who do have MS or suspect they may have it need to watch what they eat and take the appropriate supplements.