March 2013 Health Tips | Semo Health Network

March is MS Awareness Month. March 11-17 is MS Awareness Week. Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system. In MS, the myelin (the layer of insulation that surrounds nerve fibers) is destroyed. Statistics indicate that there are currently 350,000 to 500,000 people in the US who have been diagnosed with MS. There are 2.5 million people living with the disease worldwide.

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MS (Multiple Sclerosis) was first described by French neurologist Jean-Martin Charcot in 1898. After more than 140 years of research into the disease, much still remains a mystery. There is no known cause, and, no cure. However, there are treatments that can slow the progression of the disease and manage the symptoms.

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Although the exact cause of MS remains unknown, researchers believe a combination of factors may be involved:

• Immunologic Reaction- MS is generally believed to be an autoimmune disease
• Viral or infectious Agents ? Some data suggests a common virus or other infections play a role
• Environmental Factors ? scientists have discovered that MS occurs more frequently in locations farther from the equator.
• Genetic factors ? While MS is not believed to be hereditary; having a history of MS does make a person more likely to develop it

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Symptoms of MS include: fatigue, weakness, spasticity, balance problems, bladder and bowel problems, numbness, vision loss, tremors and depression. But not all symptoms affect all MS patients.

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There are no specific tests that can determine if a person has MS. Diagnosis involves both neurological exams, and MRI, Spinal Tap evidence.

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Treatment for MS falls into two catagories:

• Treatments that address symptom management
• Treatments that change the course of the disease

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The treatment of MS has changed dramatically in the last decade. A more favorable outcome and better quality of life are definitely more attainable by people with MS through appropriate and aggressive management. But remember? EARLY TREATMENT MAKES A DIFFERENCE.

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For more information on MS (Multiple Sclerosis), please go to: www.msfocus.org

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Be informed, be aware, be safe and healthy!

If there is a health subject you would like to see information on, please contact Kimberly Crawford at 573-748-5046 or email: kcrawford@semohealthnetwork.org

Source: http://semohealthnetwork.org/march-2013-health-tips/

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