Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) covering nerve fibers, leading to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.
Symptoms
- Numbness or weakness in limbs
- Partial or complete vision loss
- Tingling or pain sensations
- Electric-shock sensations with neck movements
- Fatigue and dizziness
Causes
- Autoimmune response
- Genetic susceptibility
- Environmental factors (e.g., low vitamin D)
- Infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus)
Treatments
- Corticosteroids for relapse management
- Disease-modifying therapies (e.g., interferons)
- Physical therapy
- Muscle relaxants
- Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis)
Prevention
- No known prevention, but risk may be reduced by:
- Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels
- Avoiding smoking
- Early treatment of initial symptoms