Health Matters | fall 2009

Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system disorder that typically strikes between the ages of 20 and 40. An MS attack destroys myelin, a fatty substance that protects nerve cell fibers.

About twice as many women as men have MS. But a study in the journal Neurology found that affected men are more than twice as likely as women to pass MS on to their children. The cause of MS remains a mystery. One theory is that a virus prompts the immune system to attack the central nervous system.

Symptoms of an MS attack include:

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Muscle weakness
  • Balance problems
  • Feelings of numbness or being pricked
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Fatigue
MS has no cure, and the worst cases can destroy a person’s ability to speak, write and walk. But attacks may come and go. Most people have a mild form, and some never see a progression in symptoms after their first attack.

MS treatments differ, depending on the severity of the attack. They may include:

  • Steroids to reduce the length and strength of an attack
  • Immune-suppressing drugs to slow the course of MS
  • A synthetic form of myelin to improve nerve function and reduce the relapse rate To make life with MS a little easier, try these tips:
    • Do aerobic exercises, such as swimming and walking. Exercise keeps your muscles conditioned and fights constipation, a common MS problem.
    • To combat fatigue, keep your temperature down. Drink cool liquids, and avoid overexertion.
    Ask your doctor about taking vitamin C and drinking cranberry juice. These steps may lower your risk for urinary infections, another common problem.

    Learn more at halifaxhealth.org/ neuroscience

    Halifax Health – Center for Neuroscience offers comprehensive care for conditions affecting the brain, spine and nervous system. Visit our website for:
    • A profile of our Comprehensive Stroke Center, the first in Central Florida to be nationally certified
    • A list of our unique specialties, including neurointerventional radiology and neurorehabilitation
    • A Multiple Sclerosis Center, where you’ll find tips for living with MS
    • An online library, where you can research common neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and stroke
    Go to halifaxhealth.org/neuroscience today. You can also learn more about our neurological care and find a specialist by calling 877.8.HALIFAX.