Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a long-lasting disease that can affect the spinal cord, brain, and the optic nerves in the eyes. It could also cause some balance and muscle control. However, the disease affects everyone different with some having mild symptoms and need no treatment while others might find it tough to do daily tasks. The cause of this deadly disease is still unknown. It is considered to be an autoimmune disease that attacks the immune system, which destroys the fatty substance that protects the nerve fibers in the spinal cord and the brain. A combination of environmental and genetic factors are responsible for this disease. The treatment options for multiple sclerosis depends on the progression of the disease. As such, there is no cure for it, but medication and other methods can slow down the progression of it. It can help in speedy recovery from attacks.
1. Medications
These oral medicines are effective multiple sclerosis treatment methods. In some cases, these medicines have side effects.
This medicine might reduce the severity and frequency of relapses.
This medication could block your immune system’s attack on myelin.
It is to be taken orally once a day. It helps to lower the risk of relapse.
It is to be taken twice a day and can reduce relapses. However, it has side effects.
It is to be taken once-daily. It could reduce the relapse rate. It has many side effects, such as liver damage, and hair loss.
2. Therapies
Treatment for multiple sclerosis includes certain therapies such as:
Patients are given oral prednisone and intravenous methylprednisolone for bringing down nerve inflammation. However, it could lead to insomnia, high blood pressure, fluid retention, and mood swings.
In this treatment, the liquid portion of part of the blood (plasma) is removed and separated from the blood cells. After that, the blood cells are mixed with a protein solution (albumin) and re-injected into the body.
It is the only FDA-approved disease-modifying therapy (DMT). It helps in stopping the growth of the progress. It is given to those who have primary-progressive MS.
A physiotherapist can teach many stretching and strengthening exercises that will ease out the performance of daily tasks.
3. Self-care
Besides these oral medicines and therapies, patients with multiple sclerosis must indulge in home remedies and make lifestyle-related changes. This is also an effective multiple sclerosis treatment.
A mild form of physical workout is essential to enhance muscle tone, balance, and coordination. Swimming is a good form of exercise.
Multiple sclerosis is a life-long disease with no specific treatment to curb it, but these small lifestyle changes and therapies can help slow down its growth rate.