MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (MS)
“Join The Movement”
By: Jessica L. Flemming
CAN YOU ANSWER THIS?
If you have MS, will you eventually be
disabled and/or need a wheelchair?
Is MS contagious or inherited?
Is MS fatal?
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Inflammatory disease of the CNS that damages the
myelin sheath (or the insulating material, that surrounds
the nerve fibers in the brain, spinal cord & optic nerves).
Myelin is lost in multiple areas, leaving plaques or scars
called scleroses (thus the name Multiple Sclerosis).
Characterized by attacks which may be associated with
plaques that prevent conduction of nerve impulses in the
CNS.
MS & Myelin
In MS, myelin is broken down, causing disruptions in the
signals sent to & from the brain. Injury to the nerves may
alter virtually any sensory or motor (muscular) function.
What Goes Wrong in MS?
When Myelin is damaged, dense scar-like tissue
forms around nerve fibers throughout the brain &
spinal cord.
These scars or lesions can slow down or completely
prevent the transmission of signals between nerve
cells.
Messages from the brain & spinal cord cannot reach
other parts of the body and thus symptoms occur.
What Causes Multiple Sclerosis?
The exact cause of MS is unknown.
Most researchers believe that it is due to a
combination of genetic, immunological &
environmental factors.
MS is believed to be an autoimmune
process.
Symptoms are Different for Everyone
with MS.
Mild Symptoms More Severe
Fatigue, weakness, Symptoms
balance problems, Problems with information
dizziness, bladder processing, loss of
control, numbness, sensation, decreased
vision loss, tremors, concentration, attention
muscle spasm, speech deficits, memory loss,
impediment & sexual dysfunction &
depression. physical disability.
Criteria For Diagnosis?
A neurologist is the medical specialist that is trained to
evaluate the symptoms of MS.
Tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),
cerebrospinal fluid tests, and electro-encephalogram (EEG)
aid in accurate diagnosis.
Definite MS= history of more than one attack, at least one
month apart, and evidence that myelin has been damaged in
more than one area of the brain and/or spinal cord.
“Probable MS”= do not meet above criteria, but still have
symptoms.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Brain with MS lesions.
Who Gets MS?
Twice as many women as men
2.5 million Worldwide- 400,000 Americans (200/wk)
Generally diagnosed between the ages 20 & 40.
More common among Caucasians, especially those
of northern European ancestry.
Classifying MS (4 general categories)
Periods of active MS symptoms are called attacks,
exacerbations, or relapses. These can be followed by
quiet periods called remissions.
Relapsing-Remitting MS
Primary Progressive MS
Secondary Progressive MS
Progressing Relapsing MS
Can MS be Treated?
Yes. Today, there are 6 federally approved
medications that treat MS.
Avonex, Betaseron, Rebif & Copaxone have been
shown to be effective for modifying the natural
course of Relapsing MS.
Tysabri (monotherapy)
Novantrone is effective in slowing down MS that is
rapidly worsening or becoming progressive.
Some Statistics of MS
Most people with MS have a normal life expectancy.
2/3 of those with MS are still walking 20 years after
developing the disease.
40% of persons diagnosed with MS experience little
or no disruptions of normal activities.
75% of individuals with MS will not use a wheelchair.
MS is not contagious and is not considered fatal.
There is not a CURE for MS as of today, but we are
close.
“IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS”
RYAN D. HYDE
PROUDLY SERVING THE USA IN AFGHANISTAN 2007