Small additions to FAQs
We fleshed out the FAQs on this page and added some new references.
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune neurological disease characterized by the destruction of the myelin sheaths (nerve insulators) on neurons in the central nervous system. Its symptoms can vary, but eye pain, difficulty balancing, and numbness, tingling, and weakness in limbs are common. Attacks are “multiple” over time and/or location in the nervous system.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) falls under theAutoimmune Diseasecategory.
Last Updated:June 29, 2023
Multiple sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease that is likely caused by an autoimmune attack on the central nervous system, which leads to destruction of the myelin sheaths that insulate neurons. This damage results in lesions in the brain and spinal cord, which impairs electrical conduction and causes neurological deficits.
The main symptoms of multiple sclerosis include optic neuritis, blurred or double vision, instability, dizziness, numbness or tingling in limbs, weakness, muscle spasticity, and incontinence. The primary sign of the condition is the presence of lesions in the central nervous system.
Multiple sclerosis is diagnosed by observing lesions in at least 2 areas of the central nervous system and confirming that these lesions occurred at different times. No single piece of information is sufficient for a definitive diagnosis.
The main medical treatments for multiple sclerosis involve the use of drugs that aim to reduce disease progression and relapse rates, manage relapses, and alleviate specific symptoms. These pharmaceuticals play a crucial role in the overall management of the condition.
Vitamin D, vitamin A, biotin, and L-carnitine have been studied for their potential effects on multiple sclerosis because they have plausible mechanisms for improvement. However, the research conducted so far has not been compelling.
Research on the effect of diet on multiple sclerosis (MS) is limited, but it suggests that hypercaloric and proinflammatory diets, such as the Western diet, may be detrimental. Furthermore, people who experienced obesity during childhood to young adulthood have approximately double the risk of developing MS compared to those without obesity during that period.
Cannabinoids may help reduce pain and bladder dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis, although these effects are not objectively measurable. The effect of cannabis on cognitive symptoms remains unclear, aside from potential mood-elevating effects.
Multiple sclerosis is influenced by the immune system, but the initial triggers remain unclear. Factors such as genetics, viral infections, environmental influences, and psychological stress may contribute to the development of the disease.
Small additions to FAQs
We fleshed out the FAQs on this page and added some new references.