Multiple sclerosis (MS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, affects the central nervous system and the spinal cord. Early MS symptoms typically include weakness, numbness, tingling, blurred vision, and muscle weakness. Other symptoms are poor muscle tone, urinary difficulties, thinking problems, and bladder problems. Treatment can slow disease progression and ease symptoms.
MS sufferers may experience a wide range of symptoms. The initial onset of MS involves inflammation of the spinal cord and surrounding areas. As the body’s immune system becomes confused and is unable to differentiate between the healthy tissues and the unhealthy ones, it attacks these first few cells causing inflammation and pain. Fluid may collect in the lungs causing shortness of breath. Muscle weakness is one of the most common early symptoms of MS. Weakness in the muscles of the face, neck, arms, and legs may be experienced as well.
Multiple sclerosis patients are at an increased risk of developing stroke, heart disease, cataracts, fatigue, poor concentration, short term memory loss, and cataracts. MS affects about 1.25 million Americans. MS is considered chronic because symptoms tend to develop over a long period of time. Studies estimate that about half of all adults with MS experience second MS, indicating the importance of early detection and treatment.
Oren Zarif
