Multiple Sclerosis - Treating An Exacerbation?

Answer 1

Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system. The disease is believed to be of an autoimmune nature. The body attacks the protective myelin sheaths around nerves, causing them to short circuit. Those with the disease may face a myriad of symptoms, including muscle weakness, numbness, visual disturbances or bowel problems. It can affect anyone, but it is usually diagnosed in young adults who are in their late twenties and thirties. Women are afflicted with this disorder more than men. In the early years of the disease, patients may experience symptoms that come and go, known as a multiple sclerosis exacerbation. These events are treated through a few different procedures, with a complete remission being the hopeful outcome. The first line of treatment for a multiple sclerosis exacerbation is usually a 3 to 5 day course of intravenous steroids. These drugs work to reduce the inflammation around current disease activity, which can be seen on an MRI scan. For some, IV steroids work quickly, reversing symptoms within a matter of days. Others, however, may not respond to the treatment. Steroids work by shortening the duration of the exacerbation; they do no change the outcome. Some symptoms may go away completely, while others may leave behind residual damage. Frequent steroid use can cause many complications, including weight gain and even Diabetes. A health care provider will help manage any side effects. For those who do not respond to steroids, another treatment option is plasma exchange therapy. During this treatment, the blood is separated from the plasma. The plasma that is transferred back into the patient is cleaned of all harmful substances that may interact negatively with the immune system. Those who have undergone this medical procedure have seen their symptoms greatly reduced. It does not work in all instances, however. There is no way of telling which patients may benefit from plasma exchange. While both intravenous steroids and plasma exchange are accepted treatments for an acute multiple sclerosis exacerbation, it is still best to manage the disorder with one of the disease modifying drugs. Those with multiple sclerosis should also follow a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen. While there is no cure for MS, there are many treatments available to patients to reduce flare-ups or treat existing symptoms. Having an open line of communication with a multiple sclerosis specialist is important for those living with the disease.