All about multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system acts against the organism itself, leading to the degradation of the myelin sheath that lines the neurons and, consequently, compromising the functioning of the nervous system.

MS manifests itself in outbreaks, it can progress with recurrence or progressive and its main symptoms are muscle weakness, depression, fatigue and urinary or fecal incontinence due to loss of movement control.

In multiple sclerosis, the myelin layers that cover and isolate nerve fibers are destroyed, impairing the transmission of messages that control the body's conscious and unconscious movements such as talking, walking, or even breathing and which, in the long run, leads to disability.

Types of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis can be classified into 3 types according to the manifestation of the disease:

• Outbreak-remission multiple sclerosis: It is the most common form of the disease, being more frequent in people under 40 years of age. This type of multiple sclerosis occurs in outbreaks, in which the symptoms suddenly appear and then disappear. Outbreaks occur at intervals of months or years and last less than 24 hours; Primary progressive multiple sclerosis: In this type of multiple sclerosis, symptoms progress slowly and progressively, without outbreaks. Properly progressive multiple sclerosis is more common in people over 40 and is considered the most severe form of the disease; Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis: It is a consequence of outbreak-remission multiple sclerosis, in which there is an accumulation of symptoms over time, making movement recovery difficult and leading to a progressive increase in disabilities.

Multiple sclerosis symptoms

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis may appear suddenly or appear so common that the person doesn't even notice. If you think you may have the disease, select what you are feeling to know your risk:

1. 1. Lack of strength in your arms or difficulty walking Yes No
2. 2. Recurrent tingling in the arms or legs Yes No
3. 3. Difficulty in coordinating movements Yes No
4. 4. Difficulty holding urine or feces Yes No
5. 5. Loss of memory or difficulty concentrating Yes No
6. 6. Difficulty seeing or blurred vision Yes No

These symptoms can be aggravated when you are exposed to heat or if you have a fever, and may spontaneously reduce when the temperature returns to normal.

How to identify

The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is made by a neurologist based on the symptoms presented by the person. In addition, the doctor may order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as MRI, for example, in which the degradation of the myelin sheath can be verified. Know what it is for and how the MRI is done.

How the treatment is done

The treatment of multiple sclerosis is done through medication and physiotherapy sessions. The medications must be indicated by the doctor and aim to prevent the progression of the disease, decrease the time and intensity of crises and control symptoms, and the use of Interferon, Glatiramer Acetate, Immunoglobulins, corticosteroids and analgesics may be indicated by the neurologist.

Physical therapy is important for people with MS because it allows the muscles to be activated, preventing atrophy. Physical therapy for multiple sclerosis consists of performing stretching and muscle strengthening exercises. In addition, when the person is in crisis, it is important to rest. Learn more about treatment for multiple sclerosis.

Watch the following video and see the exercises you can do to feel better:

Can multiple sclerosis cure?

Multiple sclerosis has no cure and its treatment must be carried out for life.

The prognosis of multiple sclerosis is that the person ends up with progressive neurological disability and that about 25 years after the diagnosis of the disease, 80% of these patients become totally dependent on others to perform their tasks. However, medicine has made great strides in this area, with many cases of people diagnosed with the disease more than 20 years ago and who do not have any type of dependence.