MS Top Stories

Foundations Help Fund MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Clinical Studies

MS clinical studies are performed by many different foundations. Such Multiple Sclerosis clinical studies are usually performed by MS research non-profit foundations which can aid in one day discovering the cure for MS. Research centers for MS can be found online for anyone who wants to donate time or money to help this particular cause. The reason why such money raising is done by these foundations is to raise more funds in order for these funds to be used by scientists who are trying to find a cure. All funds in these organizations, 100 percent of them, go towards researching the cure. These foundations usually use all volunteer staff in order for the donations to be put directly into MS research. There are many such foundations that are created in the name of people who had lost the battle against this difficult disease. Some of these are set up by …


A Well-known Multiple Sclerosis UK Organization

Multiple Sclerosis UK patients have an invaluable resource in the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre which works to supply UK residents with the latest news about MS research, as well as emotional support, informative pamphlets, insurance services, an eNewsletter, and various ways to get involved with the Multiple Sclerosis Resource Center. This organization also maintains an immeasurable collection of links for all kinds of MS resources and info. Along with this, there are recipes, computer software and accessible technology, equipment and gadgets, accessible holidays, tai chi and yoga classes, and dietary supplements. This organization is a great MS resource hub for people diagnosed with this devastating illness, their caregivers, or anyone who has a friend or family member with MS.

People who need advice or someone to talk to can use the 24-hour support line offered by this organization on the website. Another option is to talk with other MS patients …


Multiple Sclerosis Help and Support Groups

Newly diagnosed patients with this challenging disease should seek out Multiple Sclerosis help and support from others who have experience with how this ailment will force the life style of the affected person to change. Simply put, there will come a time when such a patient will need someone to speak to and it is important that that person has an understanding through personal experience of what exactly the patient is dealing with. Finding a right place to interact with others in a social setting is key to managing this difficult disease.

What a lot of these support groups do is gear themselves to a specific group of people. For example, there are groups that open their doors especially to gays, bisexuals, lesbians, and transgendered people, while others may be formed by and for people of African descent, Caribbean descent, or Asians.

These groups are designed to offer help and …


What’s on an MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Fact Sheet?

An MS fact sheet can include any number of statistics, details, and information about MS. Organizations will pass out a Multiple Sclerosis fact sheet to anyone interested in learning a bit more about this autoimmune disease. Some key facts are: the MS population around the world totals more than 2 and a half million people, it’s also one of the most common diseases in young adults to affect the CNS, the myelin sheath is where damage occurs in an MS patient, MS cannot be contracted by coming into contact with an individual with the disease, and pediatric cases of MS are rare.

These are just a few of the many facts obtainable from an MS fact collection. People who volunteer for MS organizations might have the job of handing out fliers with useful tidbits about MS written on them. Such collections of factual information can also be located online from …


MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Syndrome

When it comes to MS syndrome, the faster the Multiple Sclerosis syndrome is diagnosed the easier it will be for the patient in question and less pain they will have to go through. Many people may not realize that the symptoms of this disease can appear quickly or slowly over a period of many long years. Knowing what those signs are is the best defense against waiting too long as earlier the treatment begins the better the prognosis will be and quicker the disease can be prevented from damaging the patient’s system.

There are many symptoms of MS, but most patients will experience certain common symptoms which are listed as follows: loss of balance, blurred vision, seeing double, numbness or tingling in the face or limbs, as well as rarely but sometimes a lack of coordination, slurred speech, cognitive difficulties or a sudden paralysis.

Another important fact to keep …


MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Guidelines for Treatments

MS guidelines are in place to help MS patients get the best care possible. Multiple Sclerosis guidelines also enable medical professionals to have some form of rules and regulations to follow, so as to cover all aspects of care for MS patients. Guidelines aren’t only for the physical treatment of a patient. They also exist for medications as well. These guidance points are present so doctors can administer MS drugs in the proper manner and so as to know what to look for by way of side effects. Administering medications to an MS patient isn’t as simple as giving a pill and sending the individual home. Many drugs designed for MS patients have a series of side effects that are possible. These medications need to be monitored closely in case the dose is too high, too low, or the meds aren’t working at all.

The physical treatment of an MS …


MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Genetic and Ethnicity Factors

Researchers believe Multiple Sclerosis is a disease caused by a number of MS genetic and environmental factors. Multiple Sclerosis genetic factors aren’t considered to be hereditary causes of MS, but certain variations among a person’s genes might possibly increase the risk of developing MS. For instance, an individual who already has a family member with Multiple Sclerosis is more likely to be diagnosed with MS as well. It seems the highest percentage of risk lies between parents, children, and siblings. So a person who is a twin has a 35 percent chance of being diagnosed with MS if his/her twin sibling has tested positive for MS, while a half sibling has only a 5 percent chance of being diagnosed with the disease.

Studies have shown a specific group of genes might be a factor in causing MS. The genes in chromosome 6 seem to increase the probability that a person …


How to Detect MS with Tests

When it comes to learning how to detect MS doctors have a battery of tests to run on the patient. These particular tests are not designed to diagnose MS but are in fact designed to exclude other diseases, because there is no such thing as a single test that will determine MS in a patient. One of the first steps taken is actually a compilation of a detailed patient history on the particular person as well as great detail on any experienced symptom. It is important to keep note of the symptoms that a person experiences and to write down when they occur, how long they last, and how bad they get, as well as any outside factors that help or worsen these symptoms.

Along with this detailed history, doctors will run a certain number of blood tests. These tests will use samples of the patient’s blood to determine whether …


CIS MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Risk and Treatment

A CIS MS patients experience is often the event that initiates a visit to the doctor’s office. CIS Multiple Sclerosis patients have must last at least 24 hours to be considered a clinically isolated syndrome. This episode is caused by demyelination of the nerve cells, which in turn creates inflammation of the myelin sheath. When this occurs, the episode can either be multifocal or monofocal. The difference between the two is the number of signs or symptoms the individual experiences during the attack. A multifocal episode tends to created many lesions in different areas of the central nervous system, while the monofocal episode usually causes the appearance of a single lesion.

A clinically isolated syndrome doesn’t always mean MS is present. Many individuals have a single episode and that’s it; nothing more. The doctor making the diagnosis will often consider whether or not the individual is thought to be high …


Multiple Sclerosis History

When it comes to Multiple Sclerosis history there are a few important facts to know. The first person to document MS was Dr. Jean Martin Charcot in 1868. However, the four different forms of MS weren’t actually described as standard until 1996. The forms that were described are as follows: progressive relapsing, primary progressive, secondary progressive, relapsing remitting. The reason these subgroups were identified by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to ensure accurate treatment and prognosis.

Long before Dr. Charcot’s work, a Dutch saint named Lidwina was the very first documented MS patient.  At the time of her death in 1433 her condition was not recognized as MS. Another famous historic figure who had this disease was King George III who died in 1848. His disease was also not diagnosed as MS but it was through his collection of symptom descriptions that he kept in his diary that were later …


MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Aids

Eventually a person’s mobility level drops to the point where MS aids are required for even the simplest tasks. Multiple Sclerosis aids include many forms of assistive equipment used by individuals who have temporarily lost mobility due to current MS symptoms or have become permanently disabled from the disease. Aids used by MS patients also include items intended to enhance life by making it more comfortable, such as cooling products for battling heat intolerance. Individuals who have MS and who are accustomed to spending a lot of time outdoors require the ability to maintain a cooler body temperature, in order to reduce the amount of pain caused by a higher environmental temperature.

Taking a shower or a bath can become more difficult as MS progresses. A special chair can be placed inside the tub to enable a person with limited mobility to continue to bath without the assistance of a …


Tests used in Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis

In order to achieve certainty when diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis, it is important that the doctor does not rely solely on reported symptoms. In fact, doctors do perform various tests and then compile a detailed medical history, which includes information on any possible past trauma or injuries as well as medications taken now and in the past, and any relevant family medical history as well. Although it is not proven that MS is genetic in nature, doctors will ask because some do believe a link exists.

As symptoms what manifest for this disease can be shared with other illnesses, the doctor will also perform blood tests to exclude pathogens such as HIV or Lyme disease. Along with this, the lumbar puncture performed will take samples of the cerebrospinal fluid and check them for the number of antibodies. A high number of these antibodies is a sign of an active immune …


Aspartame and MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Connection

Some individuals have thought aspartame and MS were linked together, but researchers say aspartame and Multiple Sclerosis have no connection at all. The effects of aspartame have been talked about since the artificial sweetener hit the market shelves. False claims have also been made which said aspartame lead to MS or created symptoms similar to those experienced by MS patients. The American Council on Science and Health hope to squelch these myths and prevent them from being spread any further.

The MS-like symptoms aspartame was supposedly creating were vision problems, numbness in the legs, and dizziness. These accusations could be due to the reports made by a particular doctor who said he had diabetic patients that displayed a negative reaction to aspartame. A number of diabetics had vision and memory loss, as well as some confusion. This information was sent out to many individuals via mass email. However, after much …


Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Incidence Factors

When it comes to Multiple Sclerosis incidence some people may be surprised to know that certain forms of MS incidence are caused by illnesses that are thought to be ‘borderline MS’. These illnesses are chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI), balo concentric sclerosis, and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). In fact, some illnesses which may play a role in causing MS are mono, hepatitis vaccine, and the chicken pox.

The etiology of this devastating disease can be caused by a variety of things. In fact, the genetics, the environment, or a particular virus could all be a part of the etiology of MS. It has been discovered that certain countries that are further from the equator have a greater percentage of MS cases. Some researchers think that this is because of a lower level of sunlight. The sun plays a key role in the body’s creation of vitamin D. In fact, studies …


Multiple Sclerosis Death Causes

Direct Multiple Sclerosis death causes are typically non-existent. It doesn’t cause death, but it can be a trigger for symptoms that lead to death. For instance, as MS progresses, mobility and lack of coordination can make an individual much more accident prone. Falling due to this lack of coordination can cause fractures, bruised organs, head trauma, or any number of serious physical issues. Limited mobility can cause an increase in weight gain, which might lead to other health problems, such as heart disease. Thankfully, MS isn’t considered to be a fatal disease, since people rarely die from the presence of MS.

Individuals can live healthy lives for decades after an initial diagnosis of MS has been made. But, this fact doesn’t mean people with MS have an easy time adjusting to the strains of the disease. Cancer, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues can still occur and are …


Reliable MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Websites

There are many MS websites available. These Multiple Sclerosis websites are there in order to allow patients who have MS to obtain a better understanding of it. These sites have resources that can be obtained for free from web spaces such as those run by the MS Association of America, the MS Foundation and the National MS Society among others. These particular organizations provide information such as books, pamphlets, video and audio selections, and flyers. The largest amount of information is available online, and a lot of it can simply be printed via a personal computer, while some of it is also available on loan from certain organizations.

Websites like the one for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society have a multimedia library. There are links on the resources pages that direct the user to various lists of books as well as DVD and video titles. Resources might not be available …


Signs of MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Illness

MS illness is notoriously difficult to diagnose as knowing what to look out for when it comes to Multiple Sclerosis illness is actually sometimes quite hard to determine. These symptoms can come and go, can sometimes disappear for weeks, months, and even years before the person in question seeks medical attention. It is important to know that there isn’t even a single list of symptoms, which can make it even harder to narrow the particular symptoms down. What is very important is to always note when symptoms occur, how long they last, how bad they are, and what exactly happens. This type of data will be very useful for when the person in question talks to a doctor. Certain primary symptoms that are noticed very early are caused by the attacks that happen on the nerve cells inside the body. A symptom checklist can be very useful in figuring out …


Understanding MS “Multiple Sclerosis” through Symptoms

The key to understanding Multiple Sclerosis is knowing the symptoms. The reason this important in understanding MS is that the faster a patient is diagnosed the faster they can start treatment which will greatly increase the quality of life for the patient and decrease the amount of pain experienced over the years. The medications currently used for this disease cannot cure it but early detection and medication can prevent this disease from progressing and will help in reducing the number of relapses.

While there are many symptoms of this disease most patients will experience certain common signs which are listed as follows: loss of balance, blurred vision, seeing double, numbness or tingling in the face or limbs, as well as rarely but sometimes a lack of coordination, slurred speech, cognitive difficulties or a sudden paralysis.

What is important to note is that any of these symptoms can come and go …


Devic’s Disease involves MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Optic Neuritis

MS optic neuritis is a type of an inflammation of the optic nerve. Multiple Sclerosis optic neuritis affects the bundle of nerve fibers that work to transmit visual information to the brain from the eye. Common symptoms of this ailment are pain and temporary vision loss. Optic neuritis develops along with an autoimmune disorder that can sometimes be caused by an infection. Sometimes, the signs and symptoms of this ailment can be an indication of multiple sclerosis. MS itself is a condition that results in inflammation and damage to nerves in the brain and spinal cord.

The symptoms of Devic’s disease can be very similar to the symptoms of MS; however, this is a fairly rare disease. Devic’s requires a completely different treatment than that used for MS, due to being caused by the immune system triggering a specific protein within the body. The protein in question can be found …


The Abnormal Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Nervous System

When an MRI is taken of the main parts of the Multiple Sclerosis nervous system, lesions are normally present. It’s the collection of these scarred areas on the brain and spinal cord that cause the MS nervous system to not function properly. Even though twice as many women are affected by MS each year, men and women both exhibit many of the same symptoms. Inflammation occurs when white blood cells attack the myelin sheath of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The inflammation damages the sheath enough to cause electrical impulses being sent between the brain and body to become less efficient.

People diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis are generally between the ages of 20 and 40, but even children can be afflicted with MS at a very young age. However, in pediatric cases of MS, the number of males with MS is usually higher than the number …


Signs of MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Episodes

MS episodes cause the body’s own immune system to attack nerve cells. These Multiple Sclerosis episodes can damage the brain and the spinal cord by causing the demyelination of nerve cells. This means that the outer covering of the cells is stripped off which makes them unable to receive electrical signals. The culprits of this are white blood cells. However, in normal conditions, the brain is off limits for these particular cells which are also called T-cells.

Cells which lose this crucial covering are unable to conduct electrical signals effectively. This particular lack of signals is what causes havoc within the body and the brain. There are many effects of multiple sclerosis but some most commonly felt symptoms are tingling, numbness, a loss of balance, a lack of coordination, the inability to think clearly, and blurred vision. However, as the disease progresses, there are other symptoms which may manifest such …


Symptoms of an MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Disorder

The earliest symptoms of a MS disorder can be misleading. These symptoms of a Multiple Sclerosis disorder happen because of the demyelination that has happened due to the fact that the immune system is attacking the nerve cells within the brain, spinal cord, or along the optic nerves. For this reason, this illness is considered as an autoimmune disease. There is a multitude of possible symptoms that can occur and these symptoms can vary in intensity. The highest risk of this disease is found among Caucasian women between the ages of 20 and 40 who live in the temperate zones of the world. While this illness can affect men, there are only half as many men as there are women MS patients in the world. It is after the nerve cells become stripped of their myelin sheath that the first signs of this disease are usually noticed. Many MS patients …


Celebrities with MS “Multiple Sclerosis”

There are many celebrities with MS. Some celebrities with Multiple Sclerosis include guitarist James LaRocca, screenwriter Michael Blake, race car driver Rich Warden, Dino Ferrari of Ferrari automobiles, basketball player Henry Steele, Beach Boy percussionist Jackie Bertone, Civil Rights activist Jacqueline Creed Archer, J.K Rowling’s mother Anne Volant Rowling, singer Denise Davis, and magician Wayne Dobson. Another well-known name among the list of famous people with MS is Montel Williams. He has started a fund for MS patients, which has donated a lot of money towards research for a cure of this disease. Another celebrity, Judy Finelli, created a calendar from which the sales of go towards MS research and to scientists who are dedicated to finding the cure for this difficult illness.

What is important to remember is when the patients are diagnosed with this type of a disease it is not just they who are affected, but …


Preventing an MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Infection of the Urinary Tract

An MS infection is possible to prevent, especially if it is a Multiple Sclerosis infection of the urinary tract. It isn’t uncommon for a person with MS to experience a number of UTIs over the years. The presence of Multiple Sclerosis increases the chance of a UTI occurring. This is due to the bladder dysfunction caused by MS, which could include anything from incontinence to stagnate urine. Issues with incontinence don’t tend to bring about as many urinary tract infections as stagnate urine does, but the preventative method for incontinence might lead to UTIs as well.

Restricting the amount of liquids consumed can alleviate the need to visit the restroom multiple times in a short period of time, but the lack of liquids in the bladder can cause an infection in the urinary tract. Drinking cranberry juice tends to reduce the risk of UTIs, even in small quantities, which might …


ICD 9 Code for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is 340

To receive reimbursement for diagnosis, the ICD 9 code for Multiple Sclerosis has to be added to the claim by the company issuing the reimbursement. 340 is the ICD 9 code for MS diagnoses, but MS patients don’t need to know this code in order to submit a reimbursement claim. Companies specializing in medical billing have a long list of ICD 9 codes which are attached to claims for reimbursement of all types of illnesses. Each illness is given a specific code and often subcategories under a main illness are issued the same code number.

For instance, not only does a diagnosis for MS receive the 340 code, but also any other illness that happens to fall under the specific diagnosis definition for this same code. 340 is used for medical billing of a chronic disease with the following characteristics; a “pins and needles” feeling somewhere in the body, lack …


Typical Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

When it comes to risk factors for Multiple Sclerosis there are many things to keep in mind. Risk factors for MS can be difficult to identify due to the fact that the prevalence of this disease varies from year to year and depending on who is submitting the facts. However, it is important to know that there are two and a half million people world wide affected by this disease. However, the prevalence of MS in each country does vary and scientists who study this prevalence think that there are three major factors that are responsible. For example, women are twice as likely as men to be afflicted by MS except for the pediatric situations. Although adults are mostly diagnosed by this, there are certain cases where children were diagnosed. In children, MS is mostly diagnosed in males especially until puberty. After puberty most patients diagnosed by this are women.…


Complications of Multiple Sclerosis “MS”

Even though Multiple Sclerosis was discovered decades ago, it is still a disease that is difficult to understand. The complications of Multiple Sclerosis can be simply devastating for an individual. Complications of MS can occur quickly or slowly over many years. Lesions on the spinal cord and brain are the cause for a variety of symptoms in people with MS, but the presence of these scars can also cause difficulties to arise. Symptoms may come and go for years and the individual might experience complete recovery from symptoms in between relapses. As MS progresses, the amount of time between relapses tends to become shorter and shorter. Eventually the disease rarely, if ever, goes into remission and the symptoms reach the point of becoming debilitating.

Living with the complications of MS isn’t merely dealing with the occurrence of pain. People with MS can experience extreme fatigue that prevents them from enjoying …


Signs of Multiple Sclerosis “MS” Myelin Sheath Damage

Multiple sclerosis myelin sheath damage is one of the major reasons to get diagnosed early. MS myelin sheath is the part of the body affected by this devastating disease. It is important to remember that the symptoms of MS may manifest over a period of many years and that it is important to know when to see a doctor. An early diagnosis will mean that the patient will have a chance to get the right medication to help with the symptoms and to stop the progression of this disease.

There are a multitude of symptoms of MS but most people experience some of the following: tingling and numbness of a limb or of the face, a loss of balance, double or blurry vision, or weakness in the arms, legs, hands, or feet. There may be some additional, yet less common, symptoms such as: cognitive difficulties, slurred speech, lack of coordination, …


Multiple Sclerosis Cooling Importance

Many people who suffer from MS look into Multiple Sclerosis cooling equipment in order to help them maintain a good body temperature. Patients who are affected by MS are very sensitive to heat and usually use a number of MS cooling methods. A common way to do so is to consumptions of cool fluids. Hydration is extremely important as it allows the body to use perspiration to regulate the body’s temperature until it is comfortable. A good method to use is to suck on frozen juice pops and munch on some ice chips. It is also good to stay indoors in order to utilize air conditioning and prevent overheating.

Another way to keep cool is to take cool showers, or swim in a pool, as this will quickly lower the temperature of the body. Certain other methods use cooling products such as special vests that have pockets for ice packs …


Adopting a Multiple Sclerosis Food Plan

The type of Multiple Sclerosis food consumed actually plays a very important role in how well the patients do. In fact, many patients are recommended to follow a special MS diet plan which will include a great number of choices in the menus that are geared to maximize their health. In fact, the Swank MS diet was designed to provide the maximum choices while being affordable to patients who probably have plenty of medical bills to worry about. This diet is designed to improve the nutrition of the person that will not only improve how they look but also how well they do and how intense their symptoms are.

This particular low fat diet was first introduced in 1948 and was developed by Dr. Roy Swank in order to help MS patients. In fact, in a study done at that time 144 patients were watched over a span of 34 …


MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Bacteria Identified

The cause of Multiple Sclerosis is still unknown. However, past studies have shown the possibility of MS bacteria to exist. The Multiple Sclerosis bacteria which might be responsible for some episodes of autoimmune activity are gut bacteria. These microorganisms occur naturally within the human body, but could easily be a trigger for MS. Researchers are still working on studying this bacteria and the way it is able to mimic other infections that cause the immune system to overreact. Such molecular mimics are thought to be rare. Gut bacteria seems to contain many immunogen mimics, thus making it highly probably that this every day bacteria found in the human body could be the cause for some cases of MS.

Researchers hope to continue to study gut bacteria and its affect on the human immune system so as to figure out if there truly is a connection between the bacteria and Multiple …


Annette Funicello MS, Multiple Sclerosis, and Research Funds

The Annette Funicello MS funds supplied by the non-profit organization set up in 1993 have enhanced the lives of many. All of the funds collected through the Annette Funicello Multiple Sclerosis group are put to good use in researching MS as much as possible and performing clinical trials. This group is known as The Annette Funicello Research Fund for Neurological Diseases and is managed by Annette’s husband.

Annette Funicello made her way into the hearts of many as a Mouseketeer and later in beach-themed films with Frankie Avalon. It was actually during the filming of one of these ‘summer fun’ beach flicks that the MS symptoms began to emerge. The initial set of symptoms started in 1987, but it wasn’t until 1992 that Annette finally decided to tell the public about her condition. The following year is when she and her husband started the non-profit organization to assist others with …


Using Multiple Sclerosis Data to Adjust to Living with MS

Multiple sclerosis data proves that when it comes to living with this illness it is not easy to handle the diagnosis or the challenges that come. For this reason, the newly diagnosed patients should take the time to become as informed as possible. It is important to be prepared for the future rather than just waiting until it happens. The doctor in question should have information for different treatments that are currently available and in what way the lifestyle of the patient will need to be adjusted.

It is important to maintain the current health of the patient and a good way to do so is by working in an exercise program and by changing the diet of the patient. Any boost to the immune system will go a long way to helping the patient since MS is an autoimmune disorder.

Another good way to get MS data is by …


Detecting MS (Multiple Sclerosis) with Symptoms

When it comes to detecting MS the doctor in question must consider a series of more than 50 symptoms. In detecting Multiple Sclerosis, many of these symptoms also occur in other diseases and therefore the doctor may refer the patient to a neurologist at first, in order to determine that the symptoms are not caused by a different type of ailment. The doctor will have to rule out quite a few of these illnesses and for that reason it may take some time to get a definitive diagnosis of MS as additional testing will have to be done and symptoms will have to be checked against very specific criteria.

It is important to remember that there are no quick ways to determine if a person has MS by running a simple blood test. There are a number of different tests that are used to make such a diagnosis and …


Epstein Barr virus Multiple Sclerosis “MS” Patients had as a Child

When it comes to Epstein Barr virus Multiple Sclerosis is thought to be related. The Epstein Barr virus MS link is not completely proven but researchers have found that many people who are diagnosed with MS have had the mono virus at some point in their lives. While there is no such thing as a virus that causes MS, having mono does raise the risk of obtaining this disease.

The name for Mono is the ‘kissing disease’, because it can be transferred through saliva from one person to the next. It has a very long incubation period, sometimes of an average of 25 days and thusly it can be difficult to remember when exactly it was contracted. There are certain symptoms such as a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. Another common symptom is fatigue which can last for months after other symptoms go away. The actual symptoms are …


Remyelination in Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Remyelination in Multiple Sclerosis is halted because the immune system attacks myelin. This remyelination in MS stops working as the body produces a type of an inflammatory response that ultimately causes demyelination. However, research done by Dr. Rodriguez and his team using experiments done on laboratory mice, this inflammation that demyelinates axons can also induce a process of repair called remyelination. This is what explains an apparent paradox of the laboratory mice improving in health when this inflammation was induced. Remyelination was fairly limited and patchy in the mice that were tested, but it did actually occur. The question that needed to be answered was if this process also occurs in humans, and if it does, could that process be harnessed for treatment of MS?

It is due to these findings that Dr. Lucchinetti, along with an international group of collaborating scientists in the MS Lesion Project, studied over 700 …


Accessing a Multiple Sclerosis Database

Information about MS is available on the Internet, from medical journals, in pamphlets distributed and numerous other places. Getting access to a Multiple Sclerosis database is easy for anyone to do, no matter how limited resource locations seem to be. The National MS Society, the MS Foundation, and additional MS sites around the world are capable of obtaining a multitude of data and to distribute this information to whoever wishes to learn more about MS. The more the public knows about Multiple Sclerosis, the more educated they become on ways to help promote awareness of this disease.

Websites designated to increasing public knowledge about MS have a collection of links where additional resources on MS can be accessed. Each link sends the reader to a new website with detailed info about a specific aspect of MS, which allows the person to perform a more in-depth research. Larger MS organizations and …


Some Famous People with Multiple Sclerosis

A long list of famous people with Multiple Sclerosis includes individuals such as singer Chrissy Amphlett, drummer Clive Burr, actress Lola Falana, country music artist Hal Ketchum, NASCAR truck racer Kelly Sutton, and TV personality Montel Williams. Being a celebrity means more of the public is watching and taking note of what the person is up to. When a famous person is diagnosed with an illness, this tends to intrigue others into finding out more information about the disease. This can be beneficial to more than just the celebrity with the disease or illness.

When people learn about a particular disease, they tend to be much more aware of how it affects not only the individual who has been diagnosed with it, but also those around that person. The lives of friends, family members, coworkers, and caregivers are all altered in some way. People with MS are able to share …


Locating a Multiple Sclerosis Article

As long as individuals are diagnosed with MS, the need for Multiple Sclerosis article publications is necessary. Fortunately, they are relatively easy to find. The National MS Society, the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, the MS Foundation, and numerous other non-profit MS organizations around the world provide numerous selections of articles for people to peruse. These articles are filled with information that is useful to anyone, not just people with MS. Caregivers can gather tips on how to be more successful at providing care to an individual with MS. Friends and family members can learn more about the disease and what they can do to support their friend or loved one. Employers can find out how to make the workplace more accessible for an employee with MS, so as to enable him/her to remain employed as long as physically possible.

Each non-profit organization has a website where information can be …


The Latest Multiple Sclerosis News

Multiple medical sites online offer a plethora of the latest Multiple Sclerosis news. An example of MS news covered is a short blurb posted about how the FDA added a warning label to particular medications with a list of additional side effects. Information such as this is very important to people with MS who may be taking any of those specific drugs. Knowing what signs to look for can prevent someone from ending up in the hospital unexpectedly.

News about the latest research taking place and the need for test subjects might be of interest to some MS patients as well. Determining the effectiveness and the overall safety of a particular drug is a tedious task. Finding willing recruits who’d like to help with this type of research is possible through Multiple Sclerosis news posted on MS websites and in forums frequented by people with Multiple Sclerosis.

Continuing research …


Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis in Women

More women are diagnosed with MS than men; up to twice as many. Despite the fact that more are affected by MS, the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis in women tend to be very similar to those in men. Researchers are still unclear as to why this autoimmune disease afflicts women more than men.

Vision problems are a common symptom experienced by a woman with MS. Eye issues can range from involuntary eye movement to slightly blurred vision to blindness in one eye. It is rare that permanent blindness occurs in both eyes. The blurred or double vision might come and go as the disease goes in and out of remission. Pain might be felt as the eye moves from side to side as well, due to the demyelination of nerves in the eye.

Weakness in limbs is another symptom women have felt when MS is present. The weakness might be …


How MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and Nutrition are Connected

MS and nutrition are connected in more ways than one. Eating nutritional meals will boost the immune system and promote an overall feeling of well-being. People with Multiple Sclerosis and nutrition specialists can work together to come up with a diet plan that is beneficial and easy to follow. Numerous studies have been performed on people with MS to see which foods tend to help the most and which ones should be avoided. There are actually certain foods that cause the immune system to respond in a negative way and flare-ups occur.

Bananas, broccoli, and dark leafy greens help prevent weight gain, bone loss, and issues with the bowels. Eat foods rich in iron to reduce the amount of fatigue felt. Drink lots of fluids to remain hydrated, since dehydration also plays a part in feeling tired all the time. Granted, fatigue is still one of the most common symptoms …


Forms of MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Disability

Dealing with MS disability can be difficult, due to the often severe loss of mobility caused by this autoimmune disease. Handling varying levels of Multiple Sclerosis disability is possible through medications, physical therapy, and support groups. There is actually a Multiple Sclerosis disability scale to determine the severity of a person’s disabilities and it is called the EDSS or the Expanded Disability Status Scale. This system assigns a number – 1 thru 10 – to a specific level of mobility. Number one on the scale is assigned to a person showing no signs of disability at all. 2 and 3 are associated with minimal and moderate signs of disability, respectively. A person who is only able to walk about 500 meters without aid and then needs to stop to rest is at number 4 on the scale. By the time a person is assigned a number 7 from the scale, …


Significance of MS Awareness Week, Month

Showing support during MS Awareness Week and during the entire MS Awareness Month helps more people than just those with Multiple Sclerosis. March is a time of year when news about MS is spread far and wide through promotional efforts of volunteers, MS Awareness bracelets, and educational material distributed to whoever wishes to learn about MS.

In March of 2003, the people of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida designated this month to be Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month in the United States. This particular city is the home of the national headquarters of the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. The mayor of Ft. Lauderdale and the Florida governor at the time were more than happy to set aside a specific time of year to get the entire country involved in raising awareness about MS.

Different states have Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week during the month of March as well, in order to have it during MS …


How to Volunteer for an MS Charity

Volunteering with an MS charity of your choice is not only personally rewarding, but it’s also a great way to let others know about MS. When people hear you are volunteering at a charity, they generally want to know more about it and sometimes you can recruit additional helpers this way. It’s quick and easy to sign up for a volunteer position with an MS organization. The many organizations created specifically for people with Multiple Sclerosis are non-profit, so they rely heavily on donations from caring individuals.

Most people have access to the Internet, whether it’s through a personal computer, an Internet café, or the local library. Visit an MS website and locate the page for volunteers. A number of these sites have a calendar system set up to keep everyone informed of daily activities and events going on throughout the month, as well as for multiple months at a …


Multiple Sclerosis “MS” Prevalence

The Multiple Sclerosis prevalence records vary from year to year, as well as between each source submitting facts. For the most part, the MS prevalence around the world is about 2 and a half million people. The numbers of individuals afflicted with MS in each country vary greatly and researchers feel there are 3 factors responsible for these variations. Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with MS as men are, except in the pediatric world. Although this tends to be a disease adults are affected by more so than children, pediatric MS is present. However, the majority of children affected by MS tend to be males until puberty hits, then the tables turn and females are more commonly diagnosed with this disease.

As for the 3 factors researchers believe to be responsible for the Multiple Sclerosis prevalence worldwide, they are environmental, genetics, and past infections. It appears that …


The Need for Multiple Sclerosis Articles

MS is a disease people aren’t familiar with, which makes Multiple Sclerosis articles a very valuable tool. Literature and publications are an excellent way to make a topic known to more than a handful of individuals. Articles can help people find out about diagnosis criteria, symptoms, types of MS, and how the disease progresses. These types of articles are helpful to people who are curious about the disease or who have come to wonder if they might have it.

People who have recently been diagnosed with MS might be more interested in articles about treatments, new meds, diet tips, exercise programs, what to expect, research news, beneficial supplements, support groups, answers to pertinent questions, or the side effects of meds. Articles about MS can be passed on easily from one person to the next to enable news about MS to be spread. The more awareness made about this autoimmune disease, …


Types of MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Grants

Funds supplied to organizations often go to support MS grants. A variety of needs can be covered by Multiple Sclerosis grants. Not only do non-profit organizations help to enrich the lives of those affected by MS, but the website for the organization is often run with the help of grants as well. People who are interested in studying issues related to Multiple Sclerosis can apply for grants through the National MS Society. One particular grant aids in funding for studies associated with rehabilitation, care of MS patients, either non-clinical or clinical settings, and also projects that revolve around patient management.

Most organizations offering grant money to those interested in the research aspect of MS will support individuals and groups who are studying psychological issues connected to MS, the development of assistive technology, or who wish to search for new ways to improve the lives of MS patients.

The …


Benefits of Multiple Sclerosis Forums

If you are seeking answers to MS-related questions, support, or someone to be a sounding board, visiting Multiple Sclerosis forums might be very helpful. A number of forums can be found online through reputable and secure websites. They could be forums used to discuss MS research or medical related issues, which are excellent places to learn about new meds and therapies for MS patients. Questions about health issues created by Multiple Sclerosis don’t always have to be answered by a medical professional either.

Posing questions to individuals who have had first-hand experiences can be more helpful at times. Forums designed for people with MS enable individuals to discuss health issues, talk to others in the same position, and find out what to expect in the future. As the disease progresses, new challenges have to be faced. Eventually mobility can become a serious issue and learning what to expect early on …


MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Dating and Relationships

MS dating concerns are common, especially when one person isn’t familiar with MS. Joining a Multiple Sclerosis dating site is one way to ensure both parties understand the complications that may arise. People searching for a partner on a dating site for people with MS generally have full knowledge of the disease and how severe it can become. These dating sites for specific populations of individuals don’t focus on the disease at hand. People with MS are able to utilize a multiple sclerosis dating sites to help them promote their interests, hobbies, opinions, and any other emotions that make people unique.

Multiple Sclerosis shouldn’t be the determining factor in a relationship. Although this disease can be very consuming and tends to require a lot of attention at times, it is still possible to enjoy dating without being fearful of how another person will react. When engaging in dating, be upfront …


Supporting Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week, Month

A number of large cities hold a Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week to teach others about MS. This special week takes place during Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, which happens to be the entire month of March. During March, communities gather together to promote awareness of this autoimmune disease to educate those interested in learning more about it. Fundraising events take place to gather donations to go towards MS research, obtaining assistive equipment for individuals in need, and to further promote awareness of MS.

Anyone can join in on fundraising or community events and volunteers are always welcome. The more volunteers available, the easier it is to make things happen at an effective pace and in a smooth manner. Numerous individuals with MS have been helped by the events that take place during MS week and month. If you are interested in joining the cause, contact the local MS chapter near …


Childhood Multiple Sclerosis “MS” Symptoms

MS doesn’t only affect adults. Childhood Multiple Sclerosis afflicts around 8,000 to 10,000 children in the US alone. Parents who learn about childhood MS symptoms are able to receive an accurate diagnosis for their child as quickly as possible. Multiple Sclerosis is by no means curable, as of yet, but easing the symptoms and slowing the progression of this autoimmune disease can make daily living more enjoyable.

A small percentage of MS patients whose symptoms appear before the age of 18 years are more difficult to diagnose than an adult. Symptoms of MS in kids can mimic a number of other childhood diseases and illnesses, which is why doctors find it challenging to accurately diagnose MS in kids. Most pediatricians aren’t trained to look for MS in children either, since this is a disease that tends to affect adults instead.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis are very similar in adults and …


The Meaning behind Multiple Sclerosis “MS” Ribbons

Orange ribbons adorn backpacks, hats, purses, shirts, vests, and anything else they can be pinned upon. These orange-hued items are Multiple Sclerosis ribbons. MS ribbons are worn by those who wish to show they are supportive of the MS community. People gather these special ribbons and pass them out to friends and family members to promote awareness of this debilitating disease.

Creating awareness of MS and sharing knowledge of the disease with others helps everyone learn of ways to help those in need. People with MS face a number of challenges during their lifetime. Daily tasks can become exhausting, a career might need to be set on the back burner due to a decrease in mobility, and sometimes staying at home is a hazard in itself. Life with MS can be smooth for a time, but there are plenty of bumpy sessions, especially as the disease progresses.

As the …


Donating to a Multiple Sclerosis Charity

A Multiple Sclerosis charity works hard to gather funds for services, programs, and anything else the MS community needs. Most fundraisers are used to collect money towards MS research, but plenty of other useful donations don’t come in a monetary form. Donations of assistive equipment are always greatly appreciated. These items include walkers, wheelchairs, canes, shower chairs, and anything else that can be used around the house to make daily living easier. Fatigue and limited mobility are two symptoms that seem to limit much of what a person with MS is able to accomplish in a day’s time.

If you wish to donate to a local MS charity, you can contact a local chapter to see what supplies or services are needed. You may not have a particular piece of equipment that someone needs or can use, but donating money to go towards such items is the next best thing. …


Early MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Characteristics

MS characteristics consist of certain symptoms, which may come and go for years at a time. The long list of Multiple Sclerosis characteristics can be divided into 3 categories of symptoms. When the demyelination process begins, primary symptoms appear. These are created when the sheath is damaged on the outside of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms in this group include, tingling, numbness, bowel problems, loss of bladder control, weakness in limbs, loss of balance, muscle spasms, and impaired vision. A myriad of medications are able to be taken to help lessen the severity and make these symptoms more manageable.

Primary symptoms often lead to secondary symptoms. For instance, the initial symptom of paralysis can lead to bedsores. Or, loss of bladder control can lead to a constant battle with urinary tract infections. Any complications from either primary or secondary symptoms cause tertiary symptoms. These generally come …


Multiple Sclerosis Jobs are Out There

Upon diagnosis of MS, many individuals begin thinking about what the future may hold. Specific Multiple Sclerosis jobs aren’t commonly discussed during the beginning stages of MS. It is possible to alter some jobs so an individual may continue working as long as possible, but sometimes a current career needs to be abandoned for something more conducive to the condition of the person with MS. Putting a career on hold isn’t necessary, unless all other options have been exhausted.

Depending on the stage and severity of the disease, many employers will work with an employee to see how the job can be adjusted. Allowing an individual with MS to continue working prevents employers from having to find a replacement worker and helps the employee continue to have fund necessary for living. Hours may need to be shortened, the type of work might need to be shared with other staff members, …


Finding an MS Mentor

Being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis is often a shock for most people. The need for an MS mentor is great and can help a newly diagnosed person learn how to deal with this disease in an effective manner. If you’ve just found out you have MS, then locating a support group is going to be extremely beneficial. Unless you already have someone in your family who currently has this disease as well, locating another person with MS will give you someone to talk.

It’s much easier to talk to someone who is going through the same thing you are. A mentor can provide guidance and emotional support when you become frustrated with how MS is affecting your life. This person can also teach you ways to deal with daily tasks and symptoms to make them more manageable. Having an ally on your side might make the news of being diagnosed …


Finding an MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Chat Room

Forums on MS websites have areas to post questions for all to see, but they also tend to have an MS chat room for members to visit. A Multiple Sclerosis chat room enables groups of people or just a couple of people to talk about a specific topic. These special discussion rooms make it easier to talk about something in particular with others who have a similar interest. For instance, if a person has just found information on a new drug designed for MS patients and wanted to share the results, this could be done in a chat room with others who are curious of the findings. People who would rather talk about something less technical might like to join a different chat room.

Visit a reputable website for MS patients to see what it has to offer. These sites are generally free to join, so there’s no need to …


Information inside Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Magazines

Multiple Sclerosis magazines are set up in a similar way to most other magazines. There are pages of ads, editorials, and useful information. The main difference between MS magazines and others found on the store shelves is that they are geared towards the MS community. People who have MS aren’t the only ones who benefit from these magazines. Friends, family, caregivers, and anyone curious about MS can gain quite a lot from these publications.

Ads included in an MS mag might be for medications to combat MS symptoms, new equipment to enhance the lives of individuals who have lost mobility, or new supplements. There might be articles about special diet tips, exercises to maintain flexibility and increase mobility, or stories written by other individuals with MS. News about the latest fundraising activities through one or more of the popular MS organizations might also be found among the pages of a …


The Malfunctioning Multiple Sclerosis “MS” Immune System

The Multiple Sclerosis immune system doesn’t function the way it should, thus the presence of this disease. People who have been diagnosed with an MS immune system that malfunctions experience multiple symptoms that come and go, sometimes for years at a time. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and up to 50 are connected to Multiple Sclerosis. The immune system is supposed to protect the human body, but in a person with MS, it does damage instead. White blood cells within the immune system are sent to attack infections, viruses, and other illnesses to keep the body healthy. However, in an MS patient, these beneficial cells end up attacking the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord instead.

When the nerve cells are under attack, the outer covering on the cell is damaged and becomes inflamed. This process is known as demyelination, which gets its name …


The Latest Multiple Sclerosis Breakthrough

Fundraisers and donations enable MS research to continue each year. This research enables the chance of a Multiple Sclerosis breakthrough to be more likely. Thanks to the many individuals and corporations who have provided funds over the years, research on the cause of MS has created many new medications and led to beneficial discoveries about this disease. Not all breakthroughs have to be absolutely mind-boggling to be beneficial to the MS community. There are times when news spreads around the MS community, raises hopes, and then gets squelched by a higher up force, such as the government or negative results from further studies.

However, when continuous research produces positive results, such as new meds with few to no side effects, this type of breakthrough is the kind everyone enjoys hearing about. The latest news that has the MS community humming with positive vibes involves a drug called ‘fingolimod’. It is …


How to Become an MS Guru

Becoming an MS guru doesn’t happen overnight, no matter who you are. It can take many years to learn about Multiple Sclerosis. This autoimmune disease is very complicated and researchers are still trying to figure out why it cannot be cured yet. The best way to become a guru on the subject of MS is to research it. Getting the basics from numerous MS websites is a good method for starting your collection of knowledge about MS. The National MS Society is one of the many sites online that offers lending library access to anyone who is seeking more information.

The material the lending library has is accurate, up to date, and completely accessible. Most material is sent out free of charge so people don’t have to spend money to learn about Multiple Sclerosis. You can watch educational videos, read books written by medical professionals, enjoy articles and biographies written …


Choosing an MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Diet Book

Buying an MS diet book takes some careful consideration. There are plenty to choose from, but it’s a good idea to check out the information included in each Multiple Sclerosis diet book before purchasing it. Some might be more informative than others. You might like a book that has more than recipes in it, so take a look at the selection online or at a nearby books store to see what is available.

Most online book sources have a section where book reviews are placed. Perusing this area will give you a better idea as to how others reacted to the diet book you are considering. Celebrities, such as Montel Williams, have gathered together some of their favorite recipes and tips for sticking to an MS diet to put in a book for the general public. Dr. Swank is popular among the MS community. His diet plan was devised many …


Locating Alternative Jobs for People with MS

Multiple Sclerosis causes changes in a person’s body that aren’t always conducive to work, thus the need for alternative jobs for people with MS in some cases. Physical symptoms or changes a person experiences during different stages of MS can alter the person’s ability to carry out work-oriented tasks in the same manner as before the diagnosis of MS was given. Sometimes people with MS are able to work in the same place for many years after being diagnosed with MS, but not all are so fortunate.

There are forms of MS that are more progressive than others, which can render a person’s muscles and limbs useless in a short span of time. The faster the disease advances, the more severe the symptoms are and the less they go into remission. During remission periods, individuals with MS are able to go about daily activities with relatively little difficulty. Once a …


How to Find a Reputable MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Site

An MS site can help you find the information you’ve been looking for to answer questions you have about MS. Just about any Multiple Sclerosis site provides useful info about different aspects of MS, so finding a reputable one should be easy. Of course the top sites to check first are going to be the main websites run by well-known MS organizations; the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, the MS International Federation, the MS Society of Canada, or any MS Society located in a specific country.

Your doctor could provide you with additional information on MS and this will most likely be linked to reliable sources found on the Internet as well. If you are curious about the trustworthiness of a particular site, visit some MS forums and ask questions. If a certain website has received bad reviews, then you should be able to find out which …


Obtaining MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Videos

MS videos can be used to educate children on MS using terms and images they are more familiar with. Multiple Sclerosis videos are also perfect for learning bout various aspects of MS on your own. These might be easier for an individual with limited mobility who finds it difficult to hold a book. Sometimes reading information isn’t an option, due to the way MS can affect the eyes. Videos can contain just as much information as a pamphlet or article about MS, but this same info can be transferred to the brain quicker through the use of images, tables, graphs, and diagrams. It’s often much easier to look at an illustration of an MS concept than to try to read the words used to explain it.

The local library might have some videos about MS that can be checked out for viewing. Larger cities often have a Multiple Sclerosis chapter …


Multiple Sclerosis in India

When compared to much of the rest of the world, the cases of Multiple Sclerosis in India are very few. The northern portion of India sees more MS issues than the southern part and this is believed to be because of the higher number of Indo-Europeans in the north.  The prevalence rate of MS is only 1 per everyone 100,000 Indians. The low number of MS patients in general is thought to be due to the location of India. Most tropical countries have a lower percentage of MS patients than countries from temperate climates. Researches believe this has something to do with vitamin D.

Sunshine supplies natural vitamin D to humans when they spend time in the sun. Sitting in the sunshine without sunblock on for at least 10 minutes provides most individuals with a daily dose of vitamin D. Certain studies have shown supplementing the daily diet with high …


Joining an MS Ride near You

You can do your part to help raise funds for MS research by locating an MS Ride going on nearby. If you don’t mind traveling to another state to participate in these bike rides, then you could also sign up to participate in a ride taking place any where around the nation. This cycling event is an excellent way to meet others who are personally dealing with MS, have a loved one battling the disease, or who just feels like joining in on the crusade to raise research funds for Multiple Sclerosis.

The length of the ride varies and you are welcome to participate in as many miles as you feel possible. Typical distances are 50, 75, 110, or 150 miles, but these could vary according to the location of the ride. The MS Ride 150 can be quite the haul, but the feeling of euphoria that comes with completing …


Which MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Questions to Ask First?

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with MS, then make sure you have a list of MS questions for your doctor to answer. Even the most basic Multiple Sclerosis questions can provide you with the peace of mind you need. Worrying about the future will only cause more stress and prevent you from enjoying time with family and friends. Keep a piece of paper handy for jotting down questions whenever you think of them. There’s no question that isn’t important. If you are concerned about a particular aspect of MS, then be sure to pose this concern to your doctor right away.

Some of the first questions you might want to ask should be about symptoms, medications, or what to expect in the future with Multiple Sclerosis. Knowing what symptoms are normal and which ones should cause concern will prevent you from putting off a doctor’s visit that should otherwise be …


What is MS Disease and the Causes of MS Disease?

What is MS disease? It is an autoimmune disease that affects the nerve cells. What are the causes of MS disease? These are actually debatable depending on the research you encounter. The immune system is designed to protect the body against intruding viruses, bacteria, and other diseases. However, in the case of MS patients, the immune system actually attacks healthy nerve cells within the brain and spinal cord. The white blood cells of the immune system are sent to destroy the myelin sheath on nerve cells.

This protective coating is supposed to aid in transmitting signals to allow the brain and body work together. As the sheath is attacked, inflammation occurs. If the damage continues, the myelin coating is no longer able to effectively transmit electrical impulses and parts of the body stop functioning properly.

Genetics, environmental factors, and other viruses have all been thought to be cause …


How an MRI of MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Patients is Performed

Taking an MRI of MS brain tissue is how doctors are able to locate lesions. The MRI of Multiple Sclerosis patients shows exactly where the lesions are and if they are active or not. The MRI process is a bit time consuming, but relatively uncomplicated. MS patients Before the MRI takes place, the patient might be injected with gadolinium. This colorless dye helps active lesions show up on the completed scan. The dye will only be injected if the radiologist deems it necessary.

To inject the gadolinium, the patient is first given an IV of saline solution. This IV is to prevent the vein from clotting as the dye is administered. A cool sensation might be felt as the dye works its way into the arm and through the rest of the body. Once the dye has made it through the body, the scan can begin.

Ear protection is provided …


The Etiology of Multiple Sclerosis “MS”

The etiology of Multiple Sclerosis is thought to be due to a number of things. The environment, genetics, or a virus could all contribute to the etiology of MS. Countries located further from the equator tend to have a higher percentage of MS cases. This is thought to have something to do with lower levels of sunlight. The sun is an excellent source of vitamin D Studies have shown higher doses of vitamin D to reduce both the risk of MS in test subjects as well as lessen the severity of symptoms in MS patients. Another study found an MS ‘epidemic’ to be present after WWII off the coast of Denmark. The high numbers of Multiple Sclerosis caused researchers to feel there was an environmental factor to blame in this area.

There’s no direct link proving MS will definitely be passed on from one generation to the next, but …


Where to Find MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Resources

A selection of MS resources is available to help people who have MS to understand it better. Multiple Sclerosis resources can be obtained from online sources, the local library, your doctor, a community center, or a nearby support group. These can come in the form of pamphlets, books, audio or video selections, or flyers. Online sources seem to have the largest variety of information available. Much of it can be printed right off the net via computer, but some can also be taken out on loan through certain organizations.

For instance, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society website has a multimedia library. The page describing the resources available provides links to direct you to a page with a list of books and one specifically for DVD and video titles. The resources mentioned on these two pages aren’t available directly through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s main headquarters, but instead they need …


How do you Get MS “Multiple Sclerosis”?

People often wonder, ‘How do you get MS?’ It’s impossible to contract Multiple Sclerosis through contact with and MS patient. So, how do you get Multiple Sclerosis? This disease isn’t transferred from one another via blood, saliva, or any other bodily fluid. It is actually an autoimmune disease, so the immune system is to blame. The immune system is supposed to protect the body from foreign bacteria, viruses, diseases, and other illnesses. In MS patients, the immune system begins attacking the nerve cells. The reason the immune system decides to act this way is still a mystery to doctors and researchers.

When the nerve cells undergo attack, their myelin sheath is damaged. This outer covering is in place to help the cells send electrical impulses between the body and the brain. As the sheath becomes damaged, the signals lose their efficiency, thus rending the body nearly helpless …


How to Diagnose Multiple Sclerosis

Doctors learn how to diagnose Multiple Sclerosis through using a series of tests. Each test is designed to rule out other diseases, as opposed to diagnosing only MS. There is yet to be a single test created to identify MS in patients. The doctor will first collect information about your medical background and details on any symptoms you’ve been experiencing. The more detailed you can be about these symptoms, the better. Make a list of symptoms and keep a journal on when they first started, how long they last and how severe they are. It’s also helpful if you jot down anything that causes these symptoms to get worse or better.

Besides this list of symptoms, the doctor is likely to run blood tests, a spinal tap, and at least one MRI. The blood tests are used to rule out viruses and bacteria present in the blood, such as in …


MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Walks 2010

Hundreds of sites hosted the MS Walks 2010 and brought about a huge turnout. During most years, the Multiple Sclerosis Walks have hundreds of thousands of participants donating their time to walking for a cure. Raising both funds and awareness for MS is a full-time job. The National MS Society hosts hundreds of these events each year across the nation and some are also held by MS foundations and chapters in other countries. All volunteers and participants are recognized by the National MS Society for their hard work and perseverance during these walks.

The funds go towards Multiple Sclerosis research, public education about MS, and providing a better life for people with MS through programs and services. Each dollar raised during the MS walking events goes where it is needed most. Thanks to the many volunteers and donations received, an assortment of walking events can be created to bring people …


Meaning of MS “Multiple Sclerosis” Terms

The meaning of MS is basically ‘multiple scars’, which are made noticeable on the brain and spinal cord of MS patients. The meaning of Multiple Sclerosis terms used to describe various types of MS can be difficult to understand at first, but they also accurately describe each type of MS. There are 4 types; RRMS, PPMS, SPMS, and PRMS.

Relapsing-remitting (RRMS) is the mildest form of Multiple Sclerosis and the most common type seen upon initial diagnosis. Around 85 percent of the population diagnosed with MS has RRMS and most of these individuals are in their 20s and 30s, as well as mostly women. This form of MS is characterized by the inflammatory attacks on the outer cover of the nerve cells. There are also more brain lesions present with this form of MS.

Primary-Progressive (PPMS) is progressive without the inflammatory attacks on the myelin sheaths. This type of MS …


Causes of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Relapses

Vitamin D has shown to lower the number of Multiple Sclerosis relapses MS patients experience throughout the year. However, a medicine has yet to be formulated that prevents MS relapses from ever happening again. A relapse is caused by MS lesions present on the spinal cord or brain. Lesions are detected by an MRI scan, but not all of them will show up when the scan is performed. Relapses are also known as ‘flares’, ‘attacks’, or ‘exacerbations’.

Besides consuming a high daily dose of vitamin D, specific medicines have been approved for MS patients that have proven to lower the percentage of relapses. The rate of relapse episodes drops significantly with the newer medications approved for by the FDA and one of them is an oral drug, whereas the others are all given through injections.

The brain or spinal cord lesion causing the relapse is formed when nerve cells are …


Changes Multiple Sclerosis Patients Must Make

Being diagnosed with MS doesn’t mean you simply start taking medicine the doctor prescribes and all will be fine. There are alterations Multiple Sclerosis patients must make in their daily lives. These changes are going to become a way of life and not a temporary adjustment. The proper medication and accurate doses will be determined by your doctor. You will need to remember to take this medicine regularly to prevent flare-ups and the disease from progressing quickly. MS research has brought about many drugs that have proven to be highly successful in different stages of Multiple Sclerosis.

Most MS patients experience a lost of mobility; some more so than others. You’ll need to be prepared for this and learn how to adjust your living style to work around having limited mobility. Special equipment can be purchased, rented, or borrowed to make life easier for MS patients with a loss in …


What is Multiple Sclerosis Disease?

What is Multiple Sclerosis disease? Simply put, it’s an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. Of course, there’s nothing simple about the disease itself. As for what causes Multiple Sclerosis disease exactly, it’s the reaction the immune system has to the nerves. The immune systems job is to protect the body from viruses, infections, and other illness that make a person ill. However, when it comes to MS, the immune system is actually at fault for causing the disease in the first place. The white blood cells of the immune system attack nerve cells and cause the outer coating to be stripped away. This outer cover on nerve cells is called a ‘myelin sheath’ and is needed to aid in transmitting nerve impulses between the body and the brain.

Without the sheath in place, the signals are weakened or lost altogether. When the brain and body …


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