MS is a complex disease that affects different people in different ways. Some people may have mild symptoms that do not progress and others can lose the ability to walk, write or think clearly. Medicines and rehabilitation can help maintain or restore function. Symptoms can come and go, or they may last for months or even years. There is no one test to confirm a diagnosis, but doctors can rule out other conditions using physical and neurological examinations and by asking questions about symptoms. They can also check your blood for certain enzymes or vitamins and order an MRI of the brain and spine.
The most common symptom of MS is fatigue, which is not just being tired after a long day; it is an overwhelming sense of exhaustion that can cause you to have trouble carrying out your daily activities. This can also make you feel dizzy and unsteady on your feet. Another symptom is muscle weakness, which can be due to damage to nerves or from the muscles not receiving enough exercise. It is also common to experience a numbness and tingling sensation that feels like pins and needles, which can occur in your arms, legs or face. Some people with MS will have difficulty swallowing or speaking, which is called spasticity. Some may have bladder problems that include having to urinate frequently or feeling the need to urinate suddenly, called urge incontinence.
There is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but many treatments can help slow the progression of the disease and control the severity of your symptoms. These include taking a combination of drugs, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and staying away from cigarettes. It is important to discuss the best treatment options with your doctor.
It is not known what causes sclerosis, but it is believed that a virus or genes may be to blame. Some people are more susceptible to developing the condition than others, and it is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 40. Smoking is linked to an increased risk of developing MS, which may be because the chemicals in cigarette smoke can affect your immune system.
It is important to see your doctor if you have any of the above symptoms, especially if they are new and do not go away or get worse. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist who treats MS, a neurologist. This is a great way to learn about the latest treatments and find out if your symptoms are related to MS or something else. Your doctor will also be able to tell you what medications are safe for you. This will help you to keep your symptoms under control and improve your quality of life. You can also find support groups in your area and online. Many people in these groups are dealing with the same things you are, and they can offer helpful tips. Having this kind of support can be invaluable to you and your family.
