Muscular Sclerosis

Muscular sclerosis is another name for the debilitating health condition, known as multiple sclerosis. It is presently considered as an autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks and damages the nerve cells of the brain and the spinal cord. In this disease, the myelin sheaths that surround and protect the nerve cells are broken down by the body's own immune system. Gradual destruction of the myelin sheaths is called demyelination. Along demyelination, it is also characterized by the development of scars in the nervous system. Break down of myelin sheaths results in the formation of hardened spots or scars, which are called sclerosis. Demyelination and scarring disrupt the transmission of nerve impulses, which in turn affects some basic functions like, muscle control, balance and coordination. Eventually, multiple sclerosis can cause physical and mental disability.

Multiple Sclerosis Causes
Though it is generally considered as an autoimmune disease, nobody has been able to ascertain what exactly triggers the onset of the disease. Usually, it is considered that the development of the disease can be affected by several factors. The incidence of this condition is more among women and the disease commonly affects the individuals between the ages of 20 to 40 years. It has been observed that people having a family history of this disease have an increased risk for developing it. However, multiple sclerosis is not considered as a hereditary disease. Instead, it is assumed that some people may have a genetic predisposition to develop the disease.

Again, it has been observed to be more prevalent in those parts of the world, which are far from the equatorial region. These areas receive a low amount of sunlight, for which it is thought that deficiency of vitamin D could have an important role to play in the development of this condition. Apart from these, exposure to certain virus and bacteria is also considered as a possible cause. Human herpes virus, Epstein-Barr, measles and Chlamydia pneumonia are some of the infectious agents that are being studied in this regard. Other triggering factors include, physical and emotional stress, smoking and exposure to certain toxins.

Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the particular nerves damaged by the immune response, as well as the extent of the damage. In the early stage of the disease, motor skills of the affected individual are disrupted. Difficulty in coordination and balance along with muscle weakness are some of the most common arly symptoms. This disease is characterized by the periods of relapse and remission. So in some individuals, the symptoms can last for a brief period, and then disappear for a long time. For others, the symptoms can gradually worsen and result in progressive impairment of the neurological functions.

• Muscle weakness
• Problems in balance and coordination of movements
• Numbness, tingling or pricking sensation in certain parts of the body
• Vision problems (partial loss of vision or double vision
• Tremors
• Fatigue
• Cognitive impairment
• Slurred speech
• Incontinence
• Bowel difficulties
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Depression and mood swings
• Problems in thinking and memory
• Spasticity

Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis and Treatment
There is no accurate test for this condition. The disease is often diagnosed with a proper evaluation of the symptoms, along with tests like, MRI and spinal tap. It is possible to have this disease, even if the results of various diagnostic tests come out to be negative. Presently, there is no cure for muscular sclerosis. The treatment depends on several factors including, the specific type of the disease. There are mainly four types of multiple sclerosis, recurring remitting MS, primary progressive MS, secondary progressive MS and progressive relapsing MS. Usually, certain medications are prescribed for the various types of multiple sclerosis, in order to manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Some of the common medications are, corticosteroids, interferons, glatiramer, natalizumab and mitoxantrone. FDA has approved three beta interferon drugs, avonex, betaseron and rebif for its treatment.

Along with medications, physical therapy is also required for managing its symptoms. Even a dietary change may help to manage certain symptoms of this condition. A diet containing foods, which have anti-inflammatory properties can benefit the individuals with this condition. To know more about a suitable diet, along with available treatment options and life expectancy of this condition, you can talk to your physician.