By Rene Gomez
Multiple sclerosis can be a frustrating disease, as it is largely unpredictable with disabling symptoms that typically come and go.
But with new approaches to detection and treatment, the disease does not have to sideline otherwise active and healthy patients.
Fortunately, with the help of medication and rehabilitation, many patients can live well with multiple sclerosis and lead relatively normal lives.
To be sure, University Medical Center at Princeton’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Network offers a comprehensive Multiple Sclerosis Program to help patients deal with the varying effects of the disease.
About multiple sclerosis
Approximately 400,000 Americans have multiple sclerosis and every week an estimated 200 people are newly diagnosed, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
A chronic and progressive condition that affects the central nervous system, multiple sclerosis is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, which means the immune system incorrectly attacks a patient’s healthy tissue.
Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with women being twice as likely to develop the disease than men.
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary from patient to patient and may include:
* Blurred vision, loss of vision, double vision.
* Fatigue
* Problems with memory and concentration
* Slurred speech
* Tremors
* Tingling, numbness
* Weakness in one or more limbs
* Loss of balance, poor coordination, difficulty walking
* Sudden onset of paralysis
While these symptoms are often temporary, they can at times become permanent. However, the vast majority of patients do not suffer from permanent disability.
Early diagnosis is key
In recent years, doctors have discovered that the earlier multiple sclerosis is diagnosed the greater chances of reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms.
One of the best tools in helping doctors diagnose the disease is 3T (Tesla) MRI with intravenous contrast. Available at UMCP Outpatient Radiology Imaging, the 3T MRI is one of the most advanced imaging systems available and enables doctors to better detect damage to the central nervous system.
This damage occurs when the protective insulation surrounding nerve fibers is destroyed and replaced by lesions or scar tissue, interfering with the transmission of nerve signals.
3T MRI enables doctors to better see these lesions and make a more accurate diagnosis.
In addition to MRI, doctors will also perform tests medically termed evoked potentials to record specific brain waves elicited after visual, auditory and sensory stimulation to confirm multiple sclerosis. Many times analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained through a spinal tap will also be performed.
Living well
Though there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, treating the disease in its early stages can help patients avoid relapses, lengthen remission periods and prevent permanent disability.
Today, there are several medications that can lessen the frequency and severity of attacks, reduce the accumulation of lesions in the brain and slow the progression of the disease. Once diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, patients should talk with their doctor about a medication that is right for them and begin treatment as soon as possible.
Additionally, many multiple sclerosis patients benefit from rehabilitation programs to help them manage the disease and improve and maintain the ability to function at home and at work.
In addition, therapists can assess patients for the need of assistive devices such as braces, canes or walkers and recommend changes to home and work environments in order to maintain independence.
At the same time, patients can take action on their own to help them stay well. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society makes the following recommendations:
* Exercise. Studies show that moderate aerobic exercise helps manage symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and bladder and bowel difficulties. Stretching exercises can relieve stiffness and improve flexibility.
* Eat healthy. A balanced, low-fat, high fiber diet promotes healthy bowel function and helps patients be in the best possible shape to deal with the challenges of multiple sclerosis. Maintaining a healthy diet can also go a long way in fighting fatigue associated with multiple sclerosis.
* Manage stress. Research about the relationship between stress and multiple sclerosis is ongoing, but one thing is certain: managing stress is good for everyone. Some stress management techniques to try include yoga, mediation and deep breathing.
Remember, a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis does not mean that a patient has to give up their daily activities and surrender to the symptoms of the disease. Today, with advances in detection and treatment and expert medical care, patients with multiple sclerosis are better equipped to manage the disease and live a normal life than ever before.
For more information about UMCP’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Network or to find a neurologist with Princeton HealthCare System call (888) 742-7496 or visit www.princetonhcs.org.
Rene Gomez, M.D., F.A.A.N., is board certified in neurology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology. He is a member of the medical staff at University Medical Center at Princeton.
