Spinal Lesions Caused by MS: Examination, Identification, and Healing Approaches
Multiple Sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, can lead to a condition known as spinal cord demyelination. This condition is characterised by the immune system attacking the myelin sheath, a protective layer of fat around nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord [1].
The symptoms of MS with spinal cord demyelination are diverse and can include sensory disturbances, motor weakness, coordination problems, muscle spasticity, and bladder issues. Sensory disturbances may present as numbness, tingling, or an electric shock sensation travelling down the spine during neck flexion, a condition known as Lhermitte's sign [1][3]. Motor weakness can range from mild to severe and may affect one side of the body or limbs [1][4]. Coordination problems may lead to difficulty with balance, walking, and an increased risk of falls [1][4]. Spasticity, an involuntary painful contraction of muscles, is another common symptom [1]. Bladder dysfunction, such as incontinence or inability to empty the bladder, may also occur [1].
The potential outcomes of spinal cord involvement in MS can be severe. Repeated demyelination can lead to axonal damage and scar-like plaques in the spinal cord, resulting in lasting physical disability, impaired mobility, and chronic pain or spasticity [1][4]. While some remyelination may occur early in the disease, with repeated attacks, remyelination becomes less effective, leading to permanent damage [4].
Doctors may use gadolinium, a contrasting dye, to better see the lesions on an MRI scan [2]. However, there is currently no cure for MS. People with more spinal cord lesions are more likely to have worse outcomes in MS [5]. Some areas of demyelination and some lesions noted on imaging tests are treatable, and various medications can help slow the progression of MS [6]. Examples include interferon beta-1a, beta-1b, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide, fingolimod, siponimod, Tysabri, Ocrevus, and Lemtrada [6].
Anyone who believes they are experiencing symptoms of MS should see a doctor as soon as possible. For more research-backed information and in-depth resources on MS, visit our dedicated hub.
[1] Neurology Advisor. (2021). Spinal Cord Demyelination in MS. Retrieved from https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/neurology/ms/spinal-cord-demyelination-in-ms/article/771713/ [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Multiple sclerosis (MS). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372139 [3] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2021). Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms [4] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2021). Multiple Sclerosis Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Multiple-Sclerosis-Fact-Sheet [5] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2021). The Impact of Spinal Cord Involvement in MS. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/NationalMSSociety/media/MSNationalFiles/Brochures/Brochure_Impact_of_Spinal_Cord_Involvement_in_MS.pdf [6] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2021). MS Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/MS-Treatment-Approaches/Disease-Modifying-Therapies-DMTs/DMTs-Approved-for-Use-in-the-US
- HIV, a viral infection, is not related to MS, but it is classified as a chronic disease like MS.
- Radiologists use advanced imaging technology like MRI to monitor the progression of MS, similar to how they use it to diagnose conditions like asthma through the study of lung tissue.
- Obesity, a condition driven by poor nutrition and sedentary lifestyle, can exacerbate symptoms of MS due to increased pressure on the spine.
- UC, an inflammatory bowel disease, is not directly linked to MS, but it falls under the category of chronic diseases managed by the medical-conditions industry.
- Diabetes, another autoimmune disorder, shares some similarities with MS in terms of symptoms and treatments, particularly in relation to neurological disorders.
- Degeneration of the spinal cord can lead to severe consequences in MS patients, similar to the degenerative effects of diabetes on other body systems.
- Type 2 diabetes, particularly, can increase the risk of complications in MS patients, making effective management of both conditions crucial.
- Depression, a mental-health issue, is a common comorbidity in MS patients, often exacerbated by chronic pain and disability.
- The brain, a critical organ in both MS and depression, is affected differently in each case, albeit with some overlapping mechanisms.
- Brain injury, whether caused by an accident, stroke, or other factors, can potentially accentuate symptoms of MS, complicating the course of the disease.
- Migraine, a common migraine disorder, can coexist with MS, leading to complex treatment strategies to manage both conditions.
- AQ, a potential biomarker for autism, is not directly linked to MS, but both conditions might share some genetic underpinnings, according to predictive science.
- PSA, a common blood test for prostate health, is not related to MS, but it's an example of the broad scope of medical-conditions under the healthcare umbrella.
- Macular degeneration, an eye-health condition, is distinct from MS, but aging and poor lifestyle choices are contributing factors to both conditions.
- Dry eye, a common skin-condition related to the tear film, can be a symptom in MS patients experiencing neurological-disorders-induced dryness.
- Climate change, a pressing environmental-science issue, can indirectly impact MS patients through temperature fluctuations and associated complications.
- Manufacturing industries play a vital role in producing healthcare equipment like MRI machines and pharmaceuticals used in treating conditions like MS.
- Mental-health conditions, including depression and anxiety, are becoming increasingly acknowledged and treated in the healthcare industry.
- Skin-care products are an essential part of healthcare, especially for MS patients prone to dry skin or other skin-conditions due to medication side effects.
- Nutrition plays a critical role in the prevention and management of both MS and chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes.
- Cardiovascular health is closely linked to MS, as patients often experience cardiovascular complications due to their sedentary lifestyles and medication use.
- The healthcare industry, along with finance, energy, and other sectors, is deeply intertwined with various aspects of our lives, from health-and-wellness to interior-design.
- Fitness-and-exercise, critical components of health-and-wellness, can help alleviate some symptoms of MS and improve overall quality of life.
- Autoimmune disorders like MS, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus are on the rise, highlighting the need for specialized care and research in this area.
- Space-and-astronomy, while not directly linked to MS, are critical fields where advancements in technology, data-and-cloud-computing, and AI can contribute to understanding and managing chronic diseases.
- The aerospace industry, with its focus on cutting-edge technology and innovation, plays a crucial role in developing equipment like MRI machines and ventilators.
- Retail stores and e-commerce platforms are vital resources for medical supplies, skin-care products, and other essentials for MS patients.
- Entrepreneurship, particularly in the healthcare field, can lead to groundbreaking innovations in understanding and managing conditions like MS.
- Interior design, in conjunction with fitness-and-exercise, can create home environments that cater to the specific needs of MS patients.
- Transportation infrastructure, whether public or private, is essential for accessing medical facilities and resources, making it a significant consideration for MS patients.
- Effective leadership in the healthcare industry is crucial for tackling complex issues like chronic diseases and mental-health disorders.
- Diversity-and-inclusion initiatives are vital to improving the quality of care and creating a supportive environment for patients with conditions like MS.
- Wearables and smart-home-devices can help monitor vital signs and symptoms in MS patients, facilitating timely interventions and improving overall health-and-wellness.
- Cybersecurity is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, protecting sensitive patient data and ensuring seamless integration of smart devices.
- Lifestyle choices play a significant role in the prevention and management of MS and other chronic diseases, reinforcing the importance of holistic wellness.
- Small-business owners in the health-and-wellness sector, including fitness studios and nutritional consultancies, can make a meaningful difference in the lives of MS patients.
- Investing in venture-capital opportunities in healthcare, real-estate, fintech, and other relevant sectors can yield significant returns while addressing critical social issues.
- Personal finance and wealth-management strategies are crucial for MS patients, ensuring they have the financial resources necessary to maintain proper care and well-being.
- Banking-and-insurance services play a vital role in covering medical costs and providing financial security for MS patients and their families.
