It impacts approximately 500,000 people within the U.S. alone, and doctors don’t yet know the cause. Those who live with it are often left with limited mobility, among other symptoms. With March being Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, we thought we would take the time to talk about the signs, symptoms and treatment for multiple sclerosis.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis occurs when the myelin coating around the nerve fibers in the central nervous system become damaged, leading to an interference with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body. One analogy people often use is that multiple sclerosis is akin to an electrical wire that’s been stripped of its protective coating.
Who gets Multiple Sclerosis?
Doctors aren’t sure what causes multiple sclerosis, but they think it may have something to do with people being pre-disposed to it and then being exposed to something in their environment that sets it off. It has not been proven to be hereditary, but doctors do know that it’s much more prevalent among those of northern European descent. Women are also more prone to developing it than men. Multiple sclerosis usually develops between the ages of 20-50, but some have had it as young as 2 and as old as 75.
What are the signs of Multiple Sclerosis?
Some of the common signs include:
- Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs
- Partial or complete loss of central vision, usually in one eye, often with pain during eye
movement (optic neuritis) - Double vision or blurring of vision
- Tingling or pain in parts of your body
- Electric-shock sensations that occur with certain head movements
- Tremor, lack of coordination or unsteady gait
- Slurred speech
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
These symptoms can also appear in other diseases, so make sure you are tested.
What steps should I take?
Here at Horizon Rehabilitation Center, we specialize in treating those who are living with multiple sclerosis. We use physical therapy to help improve your gait and balance, increase strength and maintain fatigue. We offer recommendations on the equipment and exercises you need for your home and vehicle. Contact us today if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.