Introduction
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative condition that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibres, resulting in impaired communication between the brain and other parts of the body.
Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
Signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis can range from mild to severe and change over time, depending on the area where the nerve fibres are affected.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Slurred speech
- Numbness in one or more limbs
- Electric-shock sensations
- Tingling
- Lack of coordination
- Unsteady gait or inability to walk
- Blurry vision
- Partial or complete loss of vision
- Vertigo
- Problems with sexual, bowel, and bladder function
- Mood disturbances
- Cognitive problems
- Hearing loss
Causes of Multiple Sclerosis
The exact cause of MS is not clear. However, it is likely to involve a combination of autoimmune disorders, infectious agents such as viruses, environmental, and genetic factors.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, Multiple Sclerosis is often referred to as “Avrutha/avarana vata”. Ayurveda believes that MS is mainly caused by a Vata imbalance.
Vata plays an important role in maintaining the functional movements of all the systems in the body. It also helps with the brain’s cognitive functions and the secretion of chemicals and hormones. Any changes in the proportions of vata dosha can cause a build-up of waste (toxins) in the minute channels of the body, resulting in damage to the nerves and tissues.
Treatment and Management
Medications such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and biologic agents are commonly used to reduce inflammation, slow disease progression, and manage symptoms. Physical therapy, joint protection techniques, and lifestyle modifications can also aid in managing the condition.
Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA can also be an integral part of managing MS, particularly for individuals with advanced disease or persistent symptoms. Palliative Care provided by SGP’s PSA aims to enhance quality of life by addressing pain management, symptom control, emotional support, and psychosocial well-being.
FAQs about Multiple Sclerosis
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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that is more commonly diagnosed in women than men. The majority of individuals diagnosed with MS are aged between 20 and 50, although it can also affect children and elderly adults.
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Multiple sclerosis relapses, commonly referred to as attacks, exacerbations, or flare-ups, occur when new symptoms appear suddenly or when existing symptoms worsen for 24 hours. These relapses can range in duration from a few days to several weeks.
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If you’ve been diagnosed with MS, it’s important to know that MS does not have an impact on fertility and pregnancy progresses in a normal manner. Most women with MS experience a stabilisation or improvement in symptoms during pregnancy. So if you’re planning to become pregnant, it is advised that you consult your neurologist about any medications that could affect your fertility or increase your risk of miscarriage.
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If multiple sclerosis is left untreated, it can cause atrophy (destruction) of brain cells at a much faster rate compared to a healthy individual, leading to irreversible brain damage and ultimately death. So, it is advised to seek medical advice as soon as symptoms appear.
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The rate of progression of multiple sclerosis can vary from one individual to another and typically, over a period of 5-15 years. The onset of attacks is characterized by an increase in intensity, a longer duration of symptoms, and a decrease in their scope.
