Aches and pains are an unavoidable part of existence. As we age, our bodies have a tendency to slow. In most cases, occasional aches, and pains come and go, and do not disrupt our lives. Unfortunately, millions of people across the globe suffer from daily pain that limits their activity. Medical researches have concluded that over 80 autoimmune diseases exist which result in fatigue and chronic pain. Multiple sclerosis is included among this list of autoimmune diseases. These diseases occur when the immune system attacks itself. They affect several parts of the body including the digestive system, nerves, muscles, and so forth.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. The central nervous systems include the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Those who live with MS may suffer from loss of muscles strength, balance, and vision. The nervous system is connected by nerve fibers. A substance called myelin protects the nerve fibers. In the case of MS, the myelin becomes inflamed. As this protective coating deteriorates, the nerves receive incorrect signals or impulses. Unfortunately, the myelin cannot be repaired. The more damaged to the myelin, the more debilitating the illness. There are varying degrees of multiple sclerosis. Some patients enter remission and lead a relatively normal life, whereas others ultimately require therapy or a wheelchair for mobility.

Degrees of Multiple Sclerosis

Relapsing Remittance: This is the most common form of multiple sclerosis and is classified as revolving periods of flare-ups and remissions. Patients may experience periods of worsening conditions. This is followed by periods of seemingly recovery.

Primary Progression: Individuals with this form of multiple sclerosis experience continuous worsening of their condition. Unlike relapsing remittance, this form of MS has few remission periods. The progression rate of the illness varies in this stage. Loss of nerve function may occur rapidly or slowly.

Secondary Progression: This form of MS involves an initial remission period. This period may last for several years. However, it is followed by a continuous worsening of conditions without remission periods.

Progressive Relapsing: This form of MS is serious, but rare. Individuals experience continuous disease progressive from their initial diagnosis without any recovery or remission periods.

What Causes Multiple Sclerosis?

The exact cause of MS is unknown. However, physicians have discovered common factors that place a person at risk for developing multiple sclerosis, or another autoimmune disease. Those who develop the condition have a defect in their chemistry which triggers the immune system to attack the body's healthy tissues and organs. The immune system is designed to attack invaders such as viruses and infections. Why the body chooses to attack the myelin remains a mystery. Factors that contribute to developing multiple sclerosis include:

• Genetics
• Environmental factors
• Gender
• Viral illnesses
• Family history of an autoimmune disease

Genetic are a huge factor in determining whether a person will develop multiple sclerosis. There are cases when several family members, typically women, suffer from autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Our genes serve as the body's blueprints. Multiple sclerosis is likely the result of a defected gene that is inherited.

Who Gets Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis may affect anyone regardless of sex or race. However, the majority of MS victims are women. The disease is non-curable, thus it is a continual battle. In most cases, a diagnosis is made between the ages of 20 and 30. This autoimmune disease is common among those with a European ancestry. Nonetheless, there are also a record number of African-Americans, Hispanics, and Asian men and women who suffer from this condition. It is estimated that 2.5 million people are affected with multiple sclerosis. This number includes 400,000 people living in the United States.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary from person-to-person. In addition, some victims experience extremely vague symptoms, which make it difficult for physicians to pinpoint the problem. Initially, doctors may suspect an autoimmune disease. However, with over 80 different types of autoimmune disease, determining the exact name for mysterious symptoms may pose a problem. Typical symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:

• Weakness
• Tremors
• Numbness
• Facial Pain
• Decreased Coordination
• Vertigo
• Decreased Memory
• Decreased Attention Span
• Slow Mental Functioning
• Slurred Speech
• Frequent Urination
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Muscle Spasms

This is not an exhausted list of symptoms. As the disease progresses, some may experience more severe symptoms such as loss of all muscle control. Individuals in the early stages of MS will likely experience several of these symptoms at some point. Any who notice prolong change in their balance or movement, accompanied with stiffness, bladder problems, slow mental functioning should consult a doctor. These symptoms are also common for other less serious problems. Whereas MS cannot be completely cured, there are treatment options that will help slow the deterioration of the myelin.

Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis

Unfortunately, one test is not able to diagnose multiple sclerosis. Those who are suspected to have MS must undergo a series of tests. To begin, physicians will have to fully understand the patient's symptoms. They will also gather information about their family's medical history. Are there any family members that suffer from an autoimmune disease? This information will point doctors in the right direction. It is challenging to diagnose an autoimmune disease. Physicians will also examine a patient's reflexes and check for any numbness. Tests that are effective with diagnosing multiple sclerosis include MRI (brain imaging test), evoked test (examines how quickly a person's reflexes respond), and spinal tap (checks the spine for fluid).

Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis

Sadly, there is no permanent cure for MS. Those who suffer from the condition must learn to live with multiple sclerosis. Fortunately, there are several medications available to help victims cope with pain and numbness. The key is receiving an early diagnosis and beginning treatment. Treatment will assist with slowing the progression of the disease, preventing relapses, and alleviating permanent damage to the central nervous system. Individuals in the advanced stages of multiple sclerosis may have to undergo physical, mental, or speech rehabilitation therapy.