Multiple sclerosis is not a matter of memory, but a neurological deficit

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that manifests itself through damage to the myelin sheath of the nerve endings of the patient’s spinal cord and brain. In medical practice, there are currently no cases of complete recovery of patients suffering from this disease, but there are ways to achieve a sufficiently long remission. Damaged tissues are difficult to restore. This explains the need to diagnose multiple sclerosis during the early stages of the disease. In order to suspect the disease and contact a neurologist, you need to know the main signs of multiple sclerosis.

As a rule, the age of onset of the first symptoms of multiple sclerosis is 16-20 years. It is during the initial stage of development of the disease that treatment will have the most beneficial effect, however, most patients see a doctor too late.

The main problem with early diagnosis is that patients notice changes in the behavior of their own body late. The early symptoms of multiple sclerosis are quite vague, so the individual is able to attribute them to a banal lack of sleep or fatigue.

The first signs of the development of the disease

In order to be able to diagnose MS on time, it is necessary to know the first signs of multiple sclerosis. It is worth noting that MS manifests itself in women and men equally, although women are statistically affected more often.

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis at the initial stage include the following:

• Chronic fatigue is the most common sign of how multiple sclerosis manifests itself in patients in the early stages. Fatigue becomes more noticeable in the afternoon. The patient often feels mental fatigue, weakness throughout the body, a desire to sleep, and general lethargy;
• Muscle weakness - the patient finds it more difficult to perform usual physical activities, it is more difficult for him to perform everyday tasks associated with muscle loads;
• Dizziness is one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
• Muscle spasms - usually noticeable in the muscles of the arms and legs. this symptom is leading in the development of disability in patients during the progression of the disease.

The primary symptoms of multiple sclerosis occur as a result of demyelination, a process of damage to the myelin sheath of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. The destructive process leads to a deterioration in the transmission of brain signals to the muscles, as well as the internal organs of the patient.

Also, the first symptoms of multiple sclerosis include tremors, slight tingling in the muscles of the arms and legs, partial loss of vision, impaired bowel and bladder function, and loss of coordination. Such early symptoms of progressive multiple sclerosis are corrected with medication.

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis in women and men

Symptoms are divided into primary, secondary and tertiary. Sometimes MS manifests itself rapidly and immediately, more often it manifests itself unnoticed and slowly develops over years. The most typical symptoms of multiple sclerosis in women and men are presented in the table:

Diagnostics

Signs of MS can also be detected in the early stages of the disease. Timely diagnosis will allow you to take all necessary measures to delay irreversible changes.

MRI

A hardware diagnostic method that helps identify atrophied areas of the cerebral cortex and enlarged cavities. So that a specialist can get a detailed image, a paramagnetic liquid is used.

The study is carried out using a tomograph - a high-resolution device capable of creating informative images in three dimensions. The three-dimensional model allows you to detect even the smallest sclerotic plaques. MRI is used to clarify the diagnosis if the attending physician suspects that the patient has multiple sclerosis or diseases with similar symptoms - encephalomyelitis, lupus, etc.

Lumbar puncture

A diagnostic method that involves taking cerebrospinal fluid from a patient. This procedure is painful and is therefore performed using local anesthesia. Research is carried out at the slightest suspicion of MS.

In this case, the diagnosis is made by the “method of exclusion” (when all other ailments with similar symptoms are excluded). The study of the composition of cerebrospinal fluid is carried out in well-equipped medical diagnostic centers.

Electroencephalogram

The essence of the method comes down to determining the bioelectrical activity of the brain and studying the state of nerve fibers. Monitoring brain activity does not imply complex preparatory measures.

The process involves an appropriate device - an encephalograph, consisting of sensors, a unit and a monitor. If the patient has previously been prescribed therapy, this device can be used to determine how effective it was.

Other methods can be used to diagnose MS: radiography, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, study of hormonal levels and tumor markers, etc.

Problems in diagnosing MS in the early stages

How to recognize multiple sclerosis and seek help? As can be seen from the above signs of the development of the disease, the symptoms are quite vague. It is almost impossible to determine an accurate diagnosis on your own; moreover, there are various diseases similar to multiple sclerosis. They begin in exactly the same way as MS begins; to exclude them, the neurologist prescribes special tests (biopsy, blood test, MRI). Only a qualified specialist can determine whether a person has multiple sclerosis or not.

The list of diseases similar to multiple sclerosis is huge. Diseases similar to multiple sclerosis: Infections affecting the central nervous system. These include:

• Lyme disease.
• AIDS virus.
• Syphilis.
• Leukoencephalopathy

Inflammatory processes affecting the central nervous system:

• Sjögren's syndrome.
• Vasculitis.
• Lupus.
• Behçet's disease.
• Sarcoidosis.

Genetic disorders:

• Myelopathy.
• Cerebral arteriopathy is autosomal dominant.
• Leukodystrophy.
• Mitochondrial disease.

Brain tumors:

• Metastases.
• Lymphoma.

Deficiency of vital microelements:

• Copper deficiency.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Lesions to tissue structure:

• Cervical spondylosis.
• Disc herniation.

Demyelinating disorders:

• Devic's disease.
• Disseminated encephalomyelitis.

In addition to these diseases, the first manifestations of the disease may be similar to the symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia, and it, unlike MS, is completely harmless to the human body. VSD is not fatal. It, like multiple sclerosis, is also characterized by dizziness, loss of coordination, spasms, and weakness. What problem attacked the patient - VSD or multiple sclerosis - will be determined by a qualified neurologist. The main thing is not to delay visiting the clinic.

Causes and predisposing factors

There has been a ton of research into multiple sclerosis in recent years. Despite the abundance of empirical material and theoretical developments, the disease has not been fully studied, which indicates either the imperfection of the methodology, or, more likely, the multifactorial nature of the process and the complexity of the etiology. The origins of multiple sclerosis are multiple.

Most researchers agree that the basis is a genetic factor. Despite the above, this does not mean that the described diagnosis has a strictly hereditary mechanism and is necessarily transmitted from ancestors to descendants. Only a predisposition is transmitted. At the same time, it has a complex character. There is a group of genes responsible for the body’s resistance to unfavorable external and internal factors. Without going into complex and lengthy discussions and descriptions, it should be said that in patients the activity of these genes is minimal. Hence the increased sensitivity to allergic reactions and toxic lesions. As well as reduced resistance of the myelin sheath and nerve tissue in general to damage.

It is impossible to accurately determine the likelihood of developing the condition in offspring with the modern development of medical science. It is assumed that the risk is 20-35% (according to various estimates, plus or minus). MS is diagnosed more often in women than in men, which once again confirms the genetic mechanism of its development.

Other factors can be classified as triggers or predisposing factors. They cause the onset or increase the risk of pathology.

1. Allergic reaction. Has individual features. More often, intolerance to foods, drugs, pigments, particles of wool, and waste products of dust mites occurs. The likelihood of onset of multiple sclerosis due to autoimmune causes is 15% in chronic allergy sufferers. Without a genetic predisposition, manifestation does not occur. The destruction of the myelin sheath occurs in line with the same autoimmune process with the release of histamine and tissue destruction.
2. Surgical interventions performed. It is not necessarily on the spinal cord or cerebral structures. At first glance, the reason seems strange, given the remoteness of the damage. Everything is within the framework of logic. The operation leads to the beginning of the regenerative process; tissue restoration requires the participation of stem cells, as well as the active functioning of the immune system. The mechanism of development of multiple sclerosis in such a situation is complex. It is caused by a spontaneous disruption of the body's defenses.
3. Injuries.
4. Geographical and climatic determinism. As was said, residents of the northern regions get sick much more often. The ratio is almost 10:1. It is not known for certain what this correlation is connected with.
5. Belonging to the Caucasian race. If we rank ethnic groups based on the frequency and likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis, Caucasians will be the undisputed leaders. Especially residents of Scandinavian countries. The Asians are walking a little further away. MS develops least often in Negroids and Australoids. According to research, the relocation of a Caucasian to hot countries slightly reduces the likelihood of manifestation, therefore, a large role, apparently, is played not by geographic latitude, but by belonging to a race more resistant to the disease.
6. Constant stress. This is not about a disturbance in the emotional background, but about constant tension. Stress can be different. Not only mental, but also physical: from overload as a result of active work to injuries and operations. The release of large amounts of stress hormones plays a role: cortisol, adrenaline, norepinephrine and dopamine. The mechanism of action on white medulla is unknown.
7. Frequent exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the patient's body. White-skinned people are especially at risk. The higher the intensity of exposure, the greater the risk. Therefore, it is strictly forbidden to sunbathe in southern latitudes. At the very least, caution should be exercised: no more than 10-15 minutes, or 5-10 minutes during periods of peak solar activity. The above does not apply to Negroids and Australoids. They are more resistant to adverse factors.
8. Increased background radiation in the place of residence. Leads to the formation of free radicals and oxidation of cell walls. It is impossible to say in advance what will be the target of charged elements, which cells will be destroyed. It is impossible to predict how this will end. The two most common conditions are tumors (usually malignant) and multiple sclerosis. Patients encounter an increased background of ionizing radiation when carrying out professional activities (submariners, workers of nuclear power plants, uranium mines), as well as people living in unfavorable environmental regions (areas near the Kiev region in Ukraine, in Russia - Ivanovo, Bryansk, Sverdlovsk and other regions).
9. Intoxication of the body. Salts of heavy metals, waste products of microorganisms and other substances are especially dangerous.
10. Vascular diseases. Atherosclerosis as an example. It consists of disruption of normal blood flow and nutrition of the brain. MS ends in rare cases.
11. Permanent infectious pathologies. Tonsillitis, bacterial arthritis and other conditions.

In the absence of clear etiological factors, they speak of idiopathic multiple sclerosis.

The reasons for the development are multiple. Two groups of factors play a role: heredity and triggers. While the former cannot be eliminated, the latter are mostly manageable. All possible provocateurs are monitored by a doctor and eliminated as part of preventive measures. This does not provide a complete guarantee, but it reduces risks to a minimum.

Is multiple sclerosis inherited? No, only a predisposition is genetically determined. Under favorable living and environmental conditions, probability will remain an abstract number.

Reasons to see a doctor as soon as possible

The signs of MS vary from person to person. If you notice increasing fatigue that appears in the afternoon, an overly sensitive reaction to heat (for example, headaches may appear after taking a hot shower), dizziness, numbness in the limbs, deterioration in visual acuity, immediately go to the doctor.

Remember that it is important to start the treatment process before MS attacks begin. Even if MS is diagnosed, your doctor will help determine the true causes of your symptoms and prescribe the right treatment that can save your life.

Prevention

Specific measures have not been developed. Prevention of multiple sclerosis consists of a group of recommendations.

Refusal of bad habits, normalization of the rest regime, avoidance of stress, physical overload, exposure to solar radiation in inadequate quantities. It is important to be checked regularly by a neurologist. Especially with an unfavorable family history. Nutrition within the framework of prevention should be fortified. There are no restrictions as such, but clinical recommendations indicate the need to consume a large number of vegetables, fruits, and protein.

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How does the disease manifest and progress?

Manifestations of multiple sclerosis depend on the form and course of the disease. The course of the disease is:

• remitting;
• progressive-remitting course;
• primary progressive;
• secondary progressive course.

In the case of a primary progressive course, the manifestations of multiple sclerosis are gradual. They increase with moderate frequency. Thus, dizziness in multiple sclerosis is complemented by poor coordination, then disabling spasms. There are both periods of stabilization of the body (remission) and periods of exacerbations. A gradual increase in symptoms is also characteristic of the secondary progressive course of the disease. Attacks of multiple sclerosis usually appear after acute stress or infectious diseases.

Forecast

The prognosis depends on the type of pathology, age of manifestation, nature of the course, and sufficiency of therapy. Childhood and adult forms have a positive prognosis associated with long life. The juvenile type leads to death much earlier (we are talking about years). On average, death in the teenage type occurs by the age of 30-35, sometimes earlier.

Remitting forms are associated with a better prognosis.

How long do people live with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis?

Life expectancy is on average 25-35 years, adjusted for negative and positive factors.

Onset of the disease

As a rule, the debut of the disease is the first clinical manifestation of the disease. By that time, the attacks of multiple sclerosis themselves may have been present for several years. Almost the debut of multiple sclerosis is noted within the first 5 years of the autoimmune process. This period is quite late, it reduces the chances of improving the patient’s condition, but this does not mean that achieving long-term remission becomes impossible.

One of the most typical debuts of MS is considered to be complete or partial damage to the optic nerve. Manifestations of such a debut are:

• sudden deterioration of vision;
• sudden onset of color blindness;
• cloudiness or blurred vision;
• a black dot flashing in front of the eye;
• constant feeling of the presence of a foreign body;
• pain in the eyeball, increasing when the pupil moves;
• impaired reaction to light (increased photosensitivity);
• flashing objects before the eyes;
• blurred contours of visible objects.

As a rule, visual impairment occurs very suddenly. In this case, symptoms may appear for about a week, then pass. Complete restoration of vision occurs in 70% of cases.

What to Remember After Diagnosis of SPMS

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with SPMS, there are a few things to keep in mind.

1. First, it is important to know that entering the SPMS phase from RRMS is not your fault. In fact, most people will eventually switch to HFRS, although the speed at which this transition occurs is still unclear. This is because the advent of new disease-modifying treatments is causing progress to be significantly slower for some people.
2. Secondly, it is important to note that, like RRMS, the symptoms of SPMS are variable, as is the rate of progression, meaning that some people are more likely to become disabled than others.
3. Third, if MS progresses, your neurologist will likely consider rehabilitation interventions, in addition to your medications, to optimize your functioning and maintain muscle strength and walking.

The bottom line here is that diagnosing SPMS requires a combination of diagnostic modalities, including a thorough neurological examination and repeated MRIs. As with relapsing remission multiple sclerosis, there are no quick or accurate tests. Instead, the diagnosis is clinical and based on the doctor's ability to piece things together.

How is multiple sclerosis diagnosed?

So, the main question: how to identify multiple sclerosis? After all manifestations have been analyzed and similar diseases have been eliminated, the doctor must move on to a more accurate analysis, which with almost 100% probability confirms or refutes the diagnosis of MS.

The first step is a neurological examination. Thanks to the examination, the doctor has the opportunity to determine the level of sensitivity impairment and determine whether the patient is disabled.

After a neurological examination, the patient is prescribed an MRI. This study is considered the most effective method of diagnosis. Thanks to the results of an MRI, medical personnel are able to determine the presence of focal inflammation in the brain, characteristic of this disease, causing disturbances in the transmission of nerve impulses. The MRI method of operation is based on a magnetic field that causes resonance in the tissues being examined, allowing one to obtain an accurate, high-quality image of all structures of the organs being examined.

At the onset of MS, magnetic resonance imaging is performed exclusively with the use of a contrast agent. The injected contrast accumulates in areas of inflammation, or areas of demyelination. Thus, the doctor is able to establish an accurate diagnosis and record the current level of damage to the fibers of the nerve endings. These data are subsequently used to study the dynamics of the disease.

Immunological testing is also used as one of the methods for determining the disease.

What shortens life expectancy with multiple sclerosis?

Of course, life with multiple sclerosis is more difficult, but no more than with any other neurological disorder. It is quite possible to learn to get along with him. The secret of long-livers is simple - fulfilling all doctor’s prescriptions, as well as completely eliminating negative factors.

Thus, it has been observed that stress greatly reduces the area of ​​healthy cells in brain structures. For example, negative emotions accelerate the progression of demyelination and increase the number of affected areas in the nervous system. In addition, stressful situations serve as a platform for new exacerbations if the pathology was in a state of regression.

An uncorrected diet has a negative effect. In order for cells to transmit nerve impulses normally, they must receive the necessary microelements and vitamins. A complete diet is dominated by vegetables and various fruits, cereal porridges and dairy products. Whereas heavy, fatty, fried foods, as well as preservatives, smoked meats and sauces should be avoided.

The average length of a full life is shortened by the lack of support from loved ones and friends. If the patient is forced to coexist with multiple sclerosis, then poor personal hygiene, monotonous nutrition, and depressive states will lead to an acceleration of pathological changes in the nervous system.

Stories of the debuts of multiple sclerosis: what symptoms did the disease begin with?

Stories taken from forum.oooi-brs.rf. Patients talk about their first symptoms of multiple sclerosis, which were followed by diagnosis.

It started with severe weakness in the hand (it was impossible to take a mug), a year later (also in the spring) a limping gait with the leg began.

The hand became numb, and not completely, but two fingers: the little finger and the ring finger and the muscle up the arm. It's a strange feeling. Then her right hand refused to work, and she ate and brushed herself with her left hand, although she had never done this before. In the summer, a doctor in Tolyatti suspected MS. They did a tomography and found 2 lesions, but in Orenburg the head of the department of the regional hospital said that it was osteochondrosis. And then 8 years of silence. And then visual impairment. The feeling after looking at the sun. I saw it in spots. Speech is impaired. They diagnosed a mini-stroke. We treated it and it went away. And after 5 months my legs gave out. I hardly walked at all.

In 2006 there was a very difficult business trip to South America. There I had an attack of severe dizziness, but since at that moment I was on the ship, I decided that it was seasickness. Moreover, I almost always get motion sickness on ships. The attack lasted for a day. Then there was weakness for a day, and then it was like nothing had happened. In 2007 I gave birth to my first child. 2 months after giving birth, a second similar attack of dizziness occurred. I chalked it up to lack of sleep and fatigue, which happens in the first months after childbirth. The second attack ended in hospitalization.

I had dizziness for about 2-3 months before the onset of MS. But then I was doing renovations and chalked it all up to fatigue...

I had an attack of dizziness a month before I “started.” Then she suddenly began limping on her right leg, then she couldn’t read, the letters were scattered. and then for 3 days there was a black film before my eyes and terrible pain in my eyes that I couldn’t move them.

At the onset I had severe dizziness with vomiting. I woke up at night from a feeling of nausea, thought I had been poisoned, got out of bed to go to the bathroom and fell on the floor, everything was spinning around me at catastrophic speed

I had a condition that I then called severe toxicosis of pregnancy (very strong, and my pregnancy at one time passed without these miracles). I really decided that we would have another baby and even ran to get checked, and then a couple of days later paralysis occurred. At first, I also blamed everything on repairs (I had just completed the project) and fatigue. I went for a walk with the child, but my right leg was dragging, I didn’t even understand right away, and at lunch somehow I wasn’t very good at feeding the child soup with my right hand. This is where it all started.

It all happened to me 21 years ago, first, weakness in my arms and legs, such dizziness that I often fell.

Remember that this disease is a very serious autoimmune disease that has an extremely high rate of progression without appropriate treatment. If you experience even minor symptoms, consult your doctor.

Be healthy, spend enough time on your body and don’t ignore the symptoms that bother you.