What can you tell me about MS?

[BlondGirl]

A very dear friend of mine was admitted to the hospital 2 days ago for severe headache and inability to stand (due to vertigo). They had believed she had stroked out. She is in her 30's. I have left my computer logged on in hopes of getting an update from her husband (they live out of state and he has been updating us on an e-mail loop).

He just called. She was diagnosed with MS. I don't know much about it and would appreciate a simplified explanation, if possible. Can anybody help me understand this disorder? Is there anyone here who has it? Any suggestions on being supportive to her that are specific to this disorder?

Thank you.

 

[lilfrk]

I got this from the MSN site for you. I know what it is but not how to explain it really and this does a pretty good job. Hope it helps just a little. As for how to be supportive of her, do it the same way you always have.


Multiple Sclerosis (MS)




Q: What is multiple sclerosis?
A: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that progressively damages the insulation (myelin) surrounding nerve fibers. This damage causes nearby cells to multiply until they form thick, scar-like tissue -- the sclerosis or plaque. The sclerotic tissue can slow down or stop the signals that must travel between nerve cells in order for the body to function normally. Sclerosis occurs in many places in the CNS, affecting body functions wherever it occurs. This is why the disease is called "multiple sclerosis." The cause of MS is unknown.

Q: How old are people when they get MS? What are the symptoms?
A: MS, more common in women than in men, typically first causes symptoms between the ages of 20 and 40. Because MS most often affects the spinal cord, brain stem, and eye (optic) nerve, symptoms may include difficulty walking, bladder and bowel problems, reduced vision, fatigue, sexual dysfunction and dizziness. Symptoms also typically come and go, with longer periods of symptom absence (remission) early in the disease that shorten as it progresses. Symptom recurrence is called an "exacerbation" or relapse. The first phase of MS, the "relapsing-remitting" phase, may last for years, until extensive sclerotic damage makes remissions less and less likely. This is the "secondary progressive" phase of MS.

Q: How is MS treated? Is it curable?
A: There is no cure for MS today, but research to find a cure is ongoing. MS is currently treated most often with drugs that can lengthen the periods of remission by delaying the progression of the disease. One of the most effective drugs for this purpose is interferon. For acute exacerbations of MS, steroids are often used to hasten the recovery time.

Q: What is interferon?
A: In its natural state, interferon is a protein produced by animal (including human) cells when they are invaded by viruses. The invaded cells release interferon into the bloodstream to signal healthy cells to make an enzyme (another kind of protein) that fights the infection. Interferon's potential as a medication was known for many years, but too little of it was available for research and treatment until the recent advent of genetic engineering. Alpha, beta, and gamma interferon may be used to treat diseases including MS, hepatitis, leukemia, genital warts, and Kaposi's sarcoma.

General health information is not necessarily applicable to any one individual health situation. The information provided herein should not be considered medical advice and is not a substitute for a visit with your doctor.

 

[lavender]

 

[*bratcat*]

One of my best friends was diagnosed 5 years ago