Multiple sclerosis and its impact on quality of life

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that affects millions of people worldwide. Although there has been significant progress in understanding and treating the disease, much remains to be done. In fact, efforts are being made to promote research and the development of new treatments, as well as to increase public awareness of this disease and support for people living with it.

This chronic disease of the central nervous system primarily affects young adults. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks and damages myelin, a substance that coats nerve fibers and is essential for efficient communication between nerve cells. As a result, inflammation and scarring of nerve tissue can occur, causing a wide variety of symptoms that can be debilitating and disabling.

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is still unknown, but it is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may trigger it. Environmental factors that have been associated with an increased risk of developing MS include lack of exposure to sunlight, infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, and smoking.

Symptoms of MS can vary widely from person to person and may include muscle weakness, balance and coordination problems, numbness or tingling, blurred or double vision, fatigue, memory and concentration problems, bladder and/or bowel problems, sexual problems, among others.

Regarding diagnosis, this is based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination findings, and test results, such as magnetic resonance imaging and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid. However, currently there is no single test that can confirm the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

Currently, there is no cure for this disease, but there are a number of treatments available that can help reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms, as well as delay the progression of the disease. These treatments include medications to control inflammation and modify the immune system, rehabilitation therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

It should be noted that the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis is individualized according to each patient's symptoms, disease severity, and other individual factors. Therefore, it is important to consult with expert professionals. Some of the most recognized in the United States are:

Dr. Stephen Hauser, director of the Weill Institute for Neurosciences at the University of California, San Francisco, who has been a pioneer in the development of new treatments for MS.

Dr. Bruce Cree: Neurologist at the University of California, San Francisco, with extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of MS. He has also participated in numerous clinical trials of new treatments for MS.

Dr. Fred D. Lublin: Director of the Corinne Goldsmith Dickinson Center for MS at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. He has been a leader in the field of MS for over 30 years and has been recognized for his research and work in developing new treatments for the disease.

Dr. Emmanuelle Waubant: Neurologist and Director of the Pediatric MS Center at the University of California, San Francisco. She has been recognized for her research in the treatment and management of MS in children.

Dr. Aaron Miller: Medical Director of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and has been an advocate and leader in the treatment and management of the disease for over 30 years.

It is also important to highlight the most recognized specialized centers and institutions for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the United States, such as:

Shepherd Center MS Center: located in Atlanta, Georgia, it is a comprehensive MS treatment center that offers medical care, rehabilitation programs, and emotional support to MS patients.

Mellen MS Center: located in Cleveland, Ohio, it is part of the Cleveland Clinic Hospital and is one of the largest and most advanced MS treatment centers in the United States.

Rocky Mountain MS Center: located in Englewood, Colorado, it offers a wide range of medical care, rehabilitation, and emotional support services to MS patients.

Partners MS Center: located in Boston, Massachusetts, it is part of Brigham and Women's Hospital and offers medical care and research programs in MS.

These are just a few examples of doctors and specialized centers and institutions for MS in the United States. However, there are many other centers throughout the country that offer medical care, rehabilitation programs, and emotional support to patients with this disease. Remember to talk to your primary care physician or neurology specialist for specific recommendations for your situation.

We know that living with MS can present challenges, but with time and practice, you can learn to cope and live a fulfilling life. Here are some helpful tips for coping with this disease:

Working with a specialized healthcare team for MS, ideally including a neurologist, physiotherapist, and social worker who can help you manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help improve your quality of life and reduce symptom severity. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.

Reducing stress through meditation, yoga, therapy, or relaxing activities can help avoid triggering symptoms of this disease.

Connecting with others who also live with MS can be a source of support and motivation. Consider joining an online or in-person support group to share experiences and gain advice.

Learning about the disease can help you better understand your symptoms and treatment options, as well as make informed decisions about your healthcare.

Setting realistic goals for yourself and your life can help maintain a positive attitude and achieve a sense of accomplishment.Maintaining a positive attitude can help reduce stress and improve your quality of life. Consider working with a therapist to develop coping skills and positive thinking techniques.

Remember that MS affects each person differently, so it is important to work with your healthcare team to develop a treatment plan and life approach that is suitable for you.

 

References:

 

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, December 24). Esclerosis múltiple . Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 6, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/es-es/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350269 

¿Qué es la esclerosis múltiple? National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (n.d.). Retrieved March 6, 2023, from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/es/que-es-esclerosis-multiple 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Manejo de la esclerosis múltiple: El tratamiento puede retrasar Futuros ataques. National Institutes of Health. Retrieved March 6, 2023, from https://salud.nih.gov/articulo/manejo-de-la-esclerosis-multiple/ 

 

Dr. Stephen Hauser https://profiles.ucsf.edu/stephen.hauser

Dr. Bruce Cree https://www.ucsfhealth.org/providers/dr-bruce-cree

Dr. Fred D. Lublin https://profiles.mountsinai.org/fred-lublin

Dra. Emmanuelle Waubant https://www.ucsfhealth.org/providers/dr-emmanuelle-l-waubant

Dr. Aaron Miller https://providers.ucsd.edu/details/32641/medical-oncology-cancer

Centro de Esclerosis Múltiple Shepard https://www.shepherd.org/espanol

Centro de Esclerosis Múltiple Mellen https://my.clevelandclinic.org/

Centro de Esclerosis Múltiple Rocky Mountain https://mscenter.org/

Centro de Esclerosis Múltiple Partners https://www.cemcateducation.com/