By Amanda Rossi

Multiple Sclerosis, also known as ‘MS,’ is a long- term disease that effects the brain and spinal cord. This impacts the functions of the body, such as movement. There are 4 types of MS:  Relapsing-Remitting  Secondary-Progressive  Primary-Progressive  Progressive-Relapsing.

MS occurs when the immune system destroys a layer in the body, called myelin, which protects the nervous system. Myelin allows signals to pass easily between the brain and the rest of the body. When it is destroyed, scar tissue forms and the brain can no longer communicate properly with the body. This is when symptoms of MS begin.

 RRMS is the most common type, and is also referred to as the “first stage.” With this, a person will experience relapse. This is when symptoms go away then suddenly come back. They may be gone for several years before another “attack” happens. Over 80% of people with MS begin with this.

 SPMS usually occurs in people who have experienced RRMS. When a person has SPMS, their condition gets worse with time instead of just going away, and eventually they become unable to preform everyday activities like speaking.

 With PPMS, symptoms do not go away and gradually get worse. Only less than 15% of people with MS have this.  PRMS is the rarest form. With this, symptoms constantly get worse and are still experienced during remission.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis differ based on what area in the nerves has been effected.. Common symptoms of MS are:  Blurred vision  Dizziness  Weakness in the limbs  Slurred speech  Poor coordination

 The impacts of MS on people mentally, physically and socially vary depending on the person.  About 50% of people with MS have a short attention span, poor judgment of their self and others and a difficult time with concentration and remembering information.

 In the early stages, a person with MS may feel tired, numb, clumsy, weak and have a tingling sensation. Eventually, they may feel overheated, stiffness in the muscles and inability to control their bladder.

 Because every person is unique, it’s hard to say how a person diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis is going to handle the situation. Some common emotional changes are:  Irritable  Change in sleeping pattern and appetite  Little energy Any emotional change – especially in a child – should be reported to a doctor as soon as possible.

 MS is an autoimmune disease and cannot be “caught.” Heredity, however, can play a role.  MS is found to be most common in females, people living in areas with mild conditions (such as the U.S.), Caucasians and people at the age of at least 20.

 A cure for MS has still not yet been discovered, but that doesn’t mean a person living with the disease cannot live a normal and long life.  Rehab is important to take part in during any/all stages of MS. The programs focus on helping a person improve their fitness, mobility, speech and memory to preform their daily activities safely.

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