Multiple sclerosis
June 20th 2009 14:24
Multiple Sclerosis- from www.ahealthyme.com
As what I have discussed in the previous article, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is characterized by demyelination of the myelin sheath.
The importance of myelin sheath in our nervous system is best exemplified in my previous article in neuroanatomy.
Without the myelin sheath, normal impulse transmission is not possible. Impulse transmission via neurotransmitters like acetylcholine and glutamate enables the brain to get control of the whole body, including the muscles in contraction, and even the way we breathe or speak. Even sensing or feeling-in order for it to be normal- requires fast transmission of signals.
Without the myelin sheath, as in MS, voluntary muscle control and even sensory functions are impaired. A patient may manifest with slow reaction time, as when you prick his/her arm and he/she would not feel what you did at all. patient may also manifest with rigidity of extremities, or even numbness or pins-and-needles sensation althroughout the body, especially around the spine...
I could not emphasize enough how debilitating this disease is. It is very hard for patients, especially those who manifest speedy disease progression.
Management for this condition is preventive, at the same time supportive. Preventive in the sense that we want to slow-down or even prevent aggravation of symptoms and complications. Supportive in the sense that we would like a patient to maintain the normal functions left of them...
Consulting a neurologist, a physiatrist, and even physiotherapist enables patients and family to anticipate disease outcome, prepare for the future, and even adapt for their disabilities.
Complications of the disease may include effects of immobilization such as atrophy, muscle weakness, bed sores, lung collapse, restrictive pulmonary diseases, and others.
| 82 |
| Vote |
subscribe to this blog
Comment by Anonymous
Comment by katyzzz
Photography Tips
MS Paint Art
Comment by Kristin Wolgemuth
Poetry Lighthouse
Time to Get Up Club
Comment by Physiotherapy
Living Healthfully
Masahista pala ha!!!
On the Lighter Side
Kristin, Anonymous I am sorry to learn that part of your family has the disease...I hope everything goes well...