Multiple sclerosis is a progressive autoimmune condition that causes the immune cells to attack the myelin sheath mistakenly. This protective layer around nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord undergoes damage in people with this disease, creating problems in the Central Nervous System (CNS) functioning. The condition does not have a cure, but medication and therapy can help manage the symptoms. Here’s what you need to know about multiple sclerosis.

What causes multiple sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis results from the abnormal functioning of the immune system that causes damage to the myelin sheath. While the condition is not directly genetic, people who have relatives with multiple sclerosis are at a higher risk of developing it. Experts believe that certain environmental factors and a history of specific infections can also add to one’s risk of developing this disease.

What are its symptoms?
The autoimmune condition can lead to the following symptoms:

• Difficulty moving
• Tremors and lack of coordination
• Weakness in the arms and legs
• Loss of vision and problems in eye movement
• Numbness and a tingling sensation
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Problems with bladder and bowel functioning

How is it diagnosed?
There is no specific test to confirm the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

• Doctors perform a physical examination to understand if a person has coordination and balance problems.
• MRI scans help them understand if the brain and the spinal cord are functioning properly.
• An evoked potentials test helps them determine if the brain sends the right signals based on visual, auditory, and electrical stimuli.

How can it be treated?
Multiple sclerosis treatment aims to reduce the intensity of symptoms, improve recovery rate from attacks, and slow disease progression. Some of the treatment options for multiple sclerosis are:

• Corticosteroids
  Corticosteroids are prescribed to reduce nerve inflammation. The side effects associated with these medications include insomnia, mood swings, and high blood pressure and blood glucose levels.
• Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)
  DMTs are prescribed to reduce the relapse rate, slow new lesion formation, and lower the risk of brain atrophy and disability in patients. They can be administered as oral or injectable medications, and they work by changing the way the immune system works.

Are there any natural remedies?
Apart from medications and therapy, natural remedies can help soothe multiple sclerosis symptoms:

• Warm compress
  A warm compress can help bring down the intensity of pain, which is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis. That said, a hot bath or hot compress can worsen the symptoms, so one should avoid it.
• Stress management techniques
  Stress management techniques like meditation, exercising, and taking up a hobby can improve mood and reduce the risk of frequent flare-ups.
• Physical and occupational therapy
  Physical therapy helps people with multiple sclerosis improve their range of motion and function independently. On the other hand, occupational therapy focuses on assisting patients to overcome the challenges of living with the condition.

What are the best foods to have for multiple sclerosis patients?
Since this autoimmune condition causes inflammation of the nerve fibers, anti-inflammatory foods are beneficial. One should include the following foods in their regular diet:

• Fatty fish
• All kinds of berries, fruits, and vegetables
• Lean protein
• Green tea
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Turmeric

Can the condition be prevented?
Here are a few things that can help reduce multiple sclerosis risk:

• Studies say that low vitamin D levels can increase one’s risk of developing multiple sclerosis, so one should get at least 10-15 minutes of sunlight exposure daily.
• Smoking can intensify pain in patients and also reduce the effectiveness of medications, so it’s best to avoid the habit.

Multiple sclerosis is a severe condition and needs lifelong treatment. If one experiences any symptoms of the condition, it’s advisable to consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can contribute to better management of the disease and reduce the risk of severe complications like disability.