Statistics indicate that, each week, more than 200 people are diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – approximately one person every hour of the day, according to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Yet, unless you or someone you love is personally affected, you may know little about it, or hold common misconceptions about the illness.
March is National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. MS is a disease of the central nervous system. The substance that protects and insulates nerve fibers, called myelin, helps messages travel quickly and smoothly from the brain to the rest of the body. In MS, the immune system which normal fights off infection, attacks the myelin. Without myelin, the brain has a hard time communicating or sending electrical impulses out to the rest of the body. This can result in an array of symptoms and make the disease hard to diagnose.
MS symptoms vary widely and include blurred vision, weak limbs, tingling sensations, unsteadiness, coordination trouble and fatigue. For some people, MS is characterized by periods of relapse and remission while, for others, it has a progressive pattern. No one knows for sure what causes MS but factors such as immune system, genetics, environment and infection can play a part. For everyone with MS, life can be pretty unpredictable.
“For those living with the condition, education is the key to a better quality of life. Learning about available treatments, symptom management, and coping techniques gives those with MS the tools to live at their best,” says Naomi Arenson, MD, Aspirus Neurologist.
Some people with MS don’t show visible symptoms, so there can be falsehoods surrounding people with MS and the illness itself.
Here are five myths and truths about MS, provided by the MS International Federation:
#1. Myth: “There’s no cure for MS, so scientists clearly aren’t making much progress”
- Truth: Research has brought many life-changing treatments that can control or slow down MS and hep manage symptoms for lots of people
#2. Myth: “People with MS can’t work”
- Truth: Many people, especially those with less severe MS, can continue to work. Support from employers and colleagues helps make it easier.
#3. Myth: “MS is the same for everyone”
- Truth: Everyone’s MS is unique. People may experience different symptoms at different times and the impact of these symptoms can vary.
#4. Myth: “A person with MS shouldn’t exercise”
- Truth: Regular, moderate exercise can help with many MS symptoms and benefit overall health and wellbeing
#5. Myth: “Everyone with MS will end up in a wheelchair
- Truth: Most people with MS don’t need to use a wheelchair on a regular basis especially with early diagnosis and treatment
To learn more information about Multiple Sclerosis, please visit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.