Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that results in the destruction of the myelin or insulating coverings of the nerves in the spinal cord and brain, leaving them exposed to damage and rendering them incapable of transmitting signals to various parts of the body. The body’s immune system attacks the myelin coverings in MS, and the causes are mostly unknown.

At present, there is no known cure for this condition, and deterioration is usually progressive. The person has problems with vision, muscle control, body function, mobility, and balance.

Some facts about multiple sclerosis:

• MS is a neurological condition that causes the most disability in young adults
• Most people are first diagnosed with MS between the ages of 25-40
• The rate of deterioration and progress of the disease cannot be predicted
• More than one million people in the country are living with MS
• Incidence is higher in colder climates
• 4-5% of cases are diagnosed in children
• It is two to three times more common in women
• 15% of cases have a family member/relative who suffers from MS
• MS attacks may occur, where symptoms worsen and then subside in some people

Treatment options
Though there are no common treatment options for MS, the symptoms can be managed so that the person’s quality of life can be improved, and emotional wellness can be maintained.

Therapy generally consists of disease-modifying treatment options that can help to change, delay or obstruct the natural progress of MS. Treatment that begins as early as possible after diagnosis can help to slow down the progression of the disease.

Several medications are available that are approved by the US Food & Drug Administration. Most of them may have certain side-effects, and your doctor can advise you about these.

Pharmacological options
These include disease-modifying medications that slow down the pace of deterioration and prevent MS flare-ups, medicines that help block the immune system from attacking the myelin covering, medications to lower general immune-system response, and cancer-fighting medicines that provide relief for MS symptoms.

• Avonex, Rebif (Interferon Beta-1A)
• Betaseron, Extavia (Interferon Beta- 1B)
• Plegridy (Peginterferon Beta-1A)
• Novantrone (Mitoxantrone)
• Lemtrada (Alemtuzumab)
• Tecfidera (Dimethyl fumarate)
• Copaxone (Glatiramer)
• Mavenclad (Cladribine)

Some medicines help to treat MS flare-ups. These include:

Steroid-based drugs
These may be given in the form of oral medication or injectables that help provide quick relief from acute symptoms.

Plasma-exchange drugs
If the severity of the flare-up cannot be managed with steroids, a quantity of blood can be removed from the body, and the plasma portion separated. This is reinforced with proteins and injected back.

Other symptomatic treatments
Medications can be prescribed to treat immediate, distressing symptoms such as fatigue, depression, bladder, and bowel problems.

Regular physical therapy
It helps to alleviate muscle stiffness and spasms and to improve mobility.

Alternative medicine
Chronic and long-duration sufferers may turn to alternative therapies. However, it’s important to consult your doctor before venturing into these to prevent side effects and worsening of symptoms.

Lifestyle changes
A healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise help to keep the body healthy.

Counseling and psychotherapy
It’s important to maintain your emotional wellness and reduce stress.