Multiple Sclerosis

Question 1

Define Multiple Sclerosis.

Answer 1

It is a potentially disabling disease of the Central Nervous System.

Question 2

What are the parts of the CNS (Central Nervous System)?

Answer 2

The brain, spinal cord, and optic (eye) nerves constitute the CNS

Question 3

Explain what causes Multiple Sclerosis symptoms?

Answer 3

When Myelin and nerves are damaged, signals from the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves to the rest of the body are distorted, causing a large variety of symptoms.

Question 4

Who named Multiple Sclerosis?

Answer 4

Jean-Martin Charcot

Question 5

What year was Multiple Sclerosis named?

Answer 5

1868

Question 6

What is Myelin?

Answer 6

The fatty substance that surrounds and insulates nerve cell bodies and axons.

Question 7

Define etiology and pathology of MS.

Answer 7

The etiology of MS is unknown. But some researchers believe its a combination of environmental factors and genetics play a role. The pathology of MS is inflammation drives tissue injury at all stages of the disease.

Question 8

What are risk factors for MS?

Answer 8

Age, sex, family history, certain infections, race, climate, certain autoimmune diseases, smoking.

Question 9

Categorize the courses of MS.

Answer 9

1. Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)
2. Secondary-progressive MS (SPMS)
3. Primary-progressive MS (PPMS)
4. Progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS)

Question 10

What are some symptoms of MS?

Answer 10

Dizziness, pain, physical fatigue, vision problems, depression, loss of bladder control, constipation.

Question 11

Define differential diagnosis.

Answer 11

Ruling in or out potential causes for a patient’s symptoms.

Question 12

Determine methods used to diagnose MS.

Answer 12

Include reviewing medical history, order blood tests, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), spinal tap or lumbar puncture.

Question 13

Identify types of MS treatment.

Answer 13

1. Exacerbations (steroids, plasma exchange)
2. Disease Modulating Agents (medication)
3. Symptom-Specific/Multidisciplinary Care (physical therapy, medications)
4. Experimental/Research (stem cell therapy, cannabis)

Question 14

What lifestyle choices help minimize the impact of the disease?

Answer 14

Learn the disease, physical activity, mental activity, well-balanced diet, plenty of sleep, not smoke.

Question 15

Recognize what to expect as the disease progresses.

Answer 15

Even though its non-fatal, the average life expectancy is 5-10 years lower than average.