Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that is characterised by inflammation and scarring of the myelin sheaths in the brain and spinal cord. Myelin is a lipid substance that serves to insulate nerves and improve their conduction velocities. In MS, the body produces antibodies that attack the myelin sheath and damage them. The resultant scar tissue that develops in place of the myelin leads to abhorrent nervous communication. The disease has a pattern of exacerbations and remissions. The onset can be slow and progressive over decades or rapid and disabling over months.

Contributing factors: a virus (yet to be identified), stress, malnutrition, heredity, food allergies, chemical poisoning, mercury poisoning, high fat diets and environmental toxins.

Symptoms: earlier symptoms – dizziness, fatigue, eye problems, numbness in the extremities, muscular stiffness, slurred speech, tremors and bladder dysfunction. Secondary symptoms that arise because of the primary symptoms are bone loss, paralysis, muscle wasting, urinary tract infections, sexual dysfunction and weak respiration.

Who to consult: Allergist, dietician, GP, herbalist, homoeopath, massage therapist, naturopath, neurologist, pharmacist, psychologist.

Articles on Multiple sclerosis

	Yoga for MS For sufferers of multiple sclerosis, symptoms are debilitating and difficult to live with. Gentle yoga can help to naturally reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for the many who live with the disease.  Read More »

Tags: multiple, sclerosis, nervous, inflammation, myelin, nerve, brain, spinal, insulate, stress, allergy