Multiple Sclerosis
What is Multiple Sclerosis? Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective myelin coating on the nerves causing communication issues within the brain and body. It’s not contagious, but it effects approximately 2.3 million people around the world, usually between the ages of 20 and 50 years. There are different types of MS and a very broad range and severity of symptoms. The cause of MS isn’t really understood. It is known that the immune system attacks the myelin coating on the nerve fibers in the central nervous system (CNS) as well as he nerves themselves. Scientists are researching genetics, infectious causes, …show more content…
With the diaphragm and muscles needed to breathe and cough weakened the patient is not able to clear his/her lungs and throat of mucus and fluids, leading to infection or pneumonia. Shallow breathing can result from poor lung control which, in turn, can cause fatigue. If the lungs are unable to transfer enough oxygen then the body itself will be low on oxygen and energy. A patient’s impaired and non-demanding lifestyle may make the issues unapparent. Ventilation exercise and aerobic training can help improve lung efficiency.[ Koseoglu, B. F. (2000). Cardiopulmonary and metabolic functions, aerobic capacity, fatigue and quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (Vol. 114). …show more content…
The treatments don’t necessarily cure anything but the can make living with MS a little easier. There are pain killers for general pain, some medications can calm spastic muscles, and various therapies that can help keep you healthy. With the one of the biggest problems being limited mobility, an inactive lifestyle can cause even more problems. People with less severe MS can still live normal lives but may occasionally have issues with everyday things, people with severe MS can be crippled for the remainder of their life. Unfortunately there is no remedy for this disease.[ Kohn, C. G., Baker, W. L., Sidovar, M. F., & Coleman, C. I. (2014). Walking speed and health-related quality of life in multiple sclerosis. The Patient, 7(1), 55-61. Retrieved from