MS

• Biological Causes:

   

   Possible causes (biological):

  • autoimmune disease

  • immune system attacks myelin sheath

  • myelin sheath in CNS affected (in brain and/ or spinal cord) |

  • myelin sheath inflamed

  • myelin sheath damaged / destroyed

  • disrupts/slows transmission of impulses

   

   

   

   
• Auto-immune response


  Genetic/environmental/viral factor triggers body's immune system to attack nerve cells especially in CNS
• Auto-immune response


  • Myelin sheath eroded and replaced by scar tissue
• Consequences of auto-immune response


  • Eyesight may deteriorate -unable to drive
  • Unable to concentrate/memory/cognitive problems -may have to give up work
  • Be unable to stand/walk -wheelchair
  • May be unable to grip, grasp, carry -home help
  • May become bed bound -home help
  • May lose bladder and bowel control -embarrassed to socialise or venture out
• Treatments for MS attacks

  • Corticosteroids, such as oral prednisone and intravenous methylprednisolone, are prescribed to reduce nerve inflammation. Side effects may include insomnia, increased blood pressure, increased blood glucose levels, mood swings and fluid retention.
  • Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis).The liquid portion of part of your blood (plasma) is removed and separated from your blood cells. The blood cells are then mixed with a protein solution (albumin) and put back into your body. Plasma exchange may be used if your symptoms are new, severe and haven't responded to steroids.
• Treatment for MS


  1. Treating relapses of MS symptoms (with steroids)

  2. Treating specific MS symptoms

  3. Treatment to reduce the number of relapses (disease-modifying therapies)
• Treatment for MS


  • Depends on the stage of the disease and the specific symptoms the person has
• Healthcare professionals involved in MS treatment


  • Neurologist (specialist in treating conditions of the nervous system)
  • Physiotherapist
  • Speech and language therapist
  • Other professionals
• Specialist MS nurse


  Serves as the main point of contact
• You'll be supported by a team of different healthcare professionals working together