WORLD BRAIN DAY 2021 STOP MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). Multiple sclerosis affects nearly 3 million people globally. 2.8 million people of all ages globally are affected by MS.

• In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body. Eventually, the disease can cause permanent damage or deterioration of the nerves says “DR. Suma kandukuri, Consultant Neurologist, SLG Hospitals, Bachupally.

• MS is a potentially severe health condition that affects the nervous system. Progression of MS is different for each person, so it is hard to predict what will happen, but most people will not experience severe disability

• The age group effected with MS is between 20-40yrs, twice more common in female than in male. Smoking is the risk factor for MS. Some vitamin deficiencies like vitamin B12 and vitamin D and some viral infections may trigger MS.

• Multiple sclerosis is a debilitating neurological disease that impacts every aspect of a person’s life, with effects ranging from cognitive impairment to significant physical disability.

• Symptoms of MS include Numbness or weakness in one or more, Electric-shock sensations that occur with certain neck movements, Tremor, Vision problems ,Slurred speech, Fatigue, Dizziness, Tingling or pain in parts of your body, Problems with sexual, bowel and bladder function.

• It is diagnosed by the Neurologist on examining the patient and advising MRI scans and other special tests.

• Early diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is critically important. Early treatment with disease modifying therapies (DMT) culminate in excellent control of the underlying disease. The aim of DMT is to achieve no evidence of disease activity. Current therapeutic interventions led to significant reduction in relapses in MS and disability.

• We can stop MS by diagnosing earlier, providing better access to life-changing treatments, and advocating for improving the quality of life for those living with MS and their caregivers.