Understanding multiple sclerosis, condition that impacts the ‘central nervous system’
KUWAIT CITY, April 23: Neurologist Dr. Namariq Al-Jarki explained that multiple sclerosis (MS) -- a condition that impacts the central nervous system, comprising the brain and spinal cord is classified as an autoimmune disorder, involving the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking itself, reports Al-Qabas daily.
Specifically, it targets myelin, a protective covering around nerve fibers responsible for facilitating the transmission of signals from the brain to the body’s organs. This assault results in the manifestation of diverse neurological symptoms, rendering MS patients susceptible to recurrent relapses throughout the course of the disease.
Despite ongoing research, science continues to explore increasingly advanced treatments aimed at managing both the disease and its associated symptoms.
Discussing this condition, neurologist Dr. Al-Jarki emphasized that heightened awareness surrounding MS has played a pivotal role in its early detection and prompt referral to specialist care.
Al-Jarki elucidated that when myelin sustains damage, it disrupts brain function and consequently affects various organs throughout the body, manifesting in a range of symptoms. To accurately diagnose MS, these symptoms must persist for more than 24 hours.
Key indicators include but are not limited to:
■ Weakness in one side of the body (hand or leg).
■ Weakness in the legs.
■ Numbness of half the body, or it begins in the feet and then escalates to the top until the abdomen or back (due to autoimmune inflammation of the marrow).
■ Urinary bladder symptoms such as bladder incontinence.
■ Blurred vision or double vision with eye pain.
■ Balance problems.
■ Stiffness in the hand or leg and muscle spasm.
■ A feeling of lethargy.
According to Dr Al-Jarki, the precise cause of multiple sclerosis remains elusive despite extensive research in the field. She suggested that multiple factors may contribute to the onset of the disease, with environmental influences accounting for approximately 75% of cases, while genetic factors represent the remaining 25%.
Dr Al-Jarki highlighted common environmental factors in Gulf countries, such as vitamin D deficiency, obesity, and smoking, alongside genetic predisposition, which collectively elevate the risk of developing multiple sclerosis.
Additionally, ongoing scientific inquiry focuses on early exposure to viral infections as a potential trigger for this immune-mediated disorder.
Researchers have observed a significant proportion of MS patients carrying antibodies to specific viral infections, prompting efforts to develop vaccines targeting these viruses and their infected cells.
Dr Al-Jarki emphasized the annual evolution of treatments for multiple sclerosis, reflecting advancements in medical standards. She noted a spectrum of over 15 available treatments designed to manage the disease’s symptoms. Among these are immunosuppressants aimed at slowing disease progression and preventing relapses.
Cortisone, for instance, is prescribed during relapses and severe symptom episodes, typically administered for a five-day period to swiftly alleviate symptoms. Following this intervention, patients revert to their ongoing treatment regimen for long-term management.
Dr. submitted. Al-Jarki gave tips for preventing neurological and degenerative diseases saying make sure to follow a healthy lifestyle, regulating vitamin D levels in the body constantly, avoiding obesity and reducing excess weight, stopping smoking, exercising regularly and staying away from stress.