A chronic condition is disabling and prevents the individual from leading a normal life. A disabling condition that currently affects 1 million people in the country and brings about the gradual deterioration of the body is multiple sclerosis. It is an autoimmune condition that affects the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and interfere with the communication system of the body. Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease and eventually, it causes the nerves to deteriorate or permanently damages them.
Multiple sclerosis gives rise to several painful symptoms and most of the treatment options for this condition revolve around treating its symptoms. Medications include Ocrevus, Enspryng, Mayzent, Gilenya, and Zeposia. Symptoms include numbness or weakness in the limbs, prolonged double vision, slurred speech, pain or tingling in certain parts of the body, and so on. As there is no permanent cure for multiple sclerosis, the following treatment methods are used to help the patients manage the symptoms.
Treatment for multiple sclerosis attacks
Usually, the treatments for multiple sclerosis are more focused on speeding recovery from the attacks, slowing the progression of the disease, and learning to manage the symptoms. For treating multiple sclerosis attacks, the doctors often prescribe corticosteroids like oral prednisone and intravenous methylprednisolone for reducing the nerve inflammation and plasma exchange for newer and more severe symptoms.
Treatment for specific multiple sclerosis symptoms
- Fatigue– One of the major symptoms experienced by people with multiple sclerosis is fatigue. In such cases, the doctor might prescribe amantadine, but this medication will have only limited effect. To manage fatigue, one will have to exercise, keep healthy sleep patterns, adopt energy-saving techniques, and avoid medications that worsen fatigue. At times, specialist fatigue management courses or therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy come in handy for managing fatigue.
- Visual problems– Multiple sclerosis is known to affect one’s vision as well. Though these vision problems improve on their own, there are instances when the symptoms can be quite severe. In such cases, the doctor prescribes steroids to speed up the recovery.
- Muscle spasms and stiffness– Multiple sclerosis is known to affect one’s mobility and even causes muscle spasms and stiffness. Muscle spasms and stiffness can be treated with the help of physiotherapy. The exercise sessions will include stretching exercises if the movements are restricted. In case the muscle spasms are severe, the doctor will prescribe medicine that relaxes the muscles. Though the medicines are effective, there are instances when these cause side-effects like dizziness, weakness, diarrhea, and nausea.
- Mobility issues– This condition is known to affect one’s ability to move freely, and muscle spasms and spasticity are known to cause this. Moreover, mobility issues are also caused by muscle weakness or problems with balance or dizziness. For such situations, the treatment involves physiotherapy, special exercises called vestibular rehabilitation, medication for dizziness and tremors, mobility aids, and home adaptations like railings or stair lifts.
- Neuropathic pain– As multiple sclerosis is known to damage the nerves, it causes nerve pain which is sharp and stabbing. This pain can manifest itself in the form of extreme skin sensitivity or a burning sensation. Treating neuropathic pain involves using medicines like gabapentin or carbamazepine or even certain antidepressants like amitriptyline for controlling pain.
