Multiple sclerosis is a disease that slowly diminishes the central nervous system as it attacks the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms, although varying widely person to person, can be quite uncomfortable. Multiple sclerosis typically occurs in a woman between the ages of 20 to 40 although men can be stricken as well. There are many drug treatment choices available for multiple sclerosis and although there is not a cure, these medications can aid at keeping the disease under control.
Diagnosing multiple sclerosis is not easy, as the symptoms can imitate other conditions.
There is no definitive testing available for multiple sclerosis. To determine whether an individual has multiple sclerosis a physician must rely on the symptoms that are exhibited by the individual, laboratory results and radiological examination results.
The factors which go into diagnosis through testing include:
A complete medical history. This medical history will examine your symptoms and the patterns in which they occur. Physicians will use this information to not only determine a diagnosis but also to help in the coming months and years to give a better prognosis of the extent of the disease and the progression it may take.
Testing of the nervous system through neurological studies. Your doctor will perform tests that will determine any defects in the strength and tone of your muscles, the sensations of pain, vibration, touch, and heat. The physician will test you to learn if you have mental status changes, such as memory loss, and impaired judgment or thinking. They will note any balance, coordination, or gait difficulties.
Spinal procedures such as a lumbar puncture or spinal tap. This procedure will allow the doctor to examine your cerebrospinal fluid through laboratory testing. White blood cell and protein levels in the fluid around the spinal cord and brain can alert the doctor to any abnormalities.
MRI or magnetic resonance imaging scan. This scan can reveal any lesions indicative of multiple sclerosis. It can help the doctor to make a determination of the stage of the disease.
Evoked potential testing: This testing enables the doctor to measure signals that your brain sends to the muscles when your body is stimulated.
If you exhibit any of the signs of multiple sclerosis see your physician as soon as possible for early diagnosis and treatment. With early detection you can potentially delay symptoms and eliminate some of the flare-ups through medication. Please bear in mind that you need to see your physician on a regular basis to ensure the best possible means of medical intervention and slowing down the progression of the disease. Close monitoring of this disease will help to keep some of the symptoms to a minimal level of discomfort and ensure a healthier outlook.
RESOURCES
Multiple Sclerosis Association of America: What are the Sympotms of Multiple Sclerosis
MedlinePlus: Multiple Sclerosis
NHS Choices: Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis
National Multiple Sclerosis Society: Diagnosing MS
Mulitple Sclerosis Foundation: How is Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosed
Wisconsin Well Woman Program: Multiple Sclerosis Testing
Cleveland Clinic: How is Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosed?