Multiple Sclerosis Flashcards
What is Multiple Sclerosis
MS is a neurological condition and is a result of damage to the protective sheath surrounding the fibres of the central nervous system (CNS). This is known as myelin. When myelin becomes damaged it can interfere with messages to the brain and body. MS can be progressive and also involve patches of remission and relapse
What causes multiple sclerosis
The cause of MS is nerve damage which is a problem with the immune system, instead of attacking harmful bacteria; it attacks the healthy myelin which affects the transmission of messages to the brain
There is no clear reason as to why this happens however there are theories to suggest that the causes of MS are a combination of:
- Environmental Factors
- Certain Countries such as Malaysia and Ecuador
- Viruses and bacteria
What might people with MS experience in terms of the SLT profession
- Slow and slurred speech - dysarthria / apraxia
- Memory and concentration difficulties
- Difficulty eating and swallowing
How can SLT’s help
- Compensatory strategies e.g. over-articulation, timing conversations with fatigue episodes, reducing background noise, being face to face, introducing a topic of conversation before giving lots of detail to help the person follow along
- Technology - AAC - high tech/ low tech
- Dysphagia: muscles may have become weakened / damage to the nerves
Explain how MS can impact eating and drinking
Dysphagia: muscles may have become weakened / damage to the nerves. MS can also alter your proprioception so there may be difficulty in assessing where your food and drink is in space
You might have difficulty controlling liquids/ saliva in your mouth - can lead to dribbling
Not being able to chew properly
Feeling like food is catching in your throat / lodged in your throat
Can lead to weight loss, aspiration, chest infections, bladder infections if you are not staying hydrated
Ways to help:
Take your time over meals. If necessary, have smaller meals but eat more often
Cut up your food more, take smaller mouthfuls and chew well before swallowing
Concentrate on swallowing. It’s best to avoid eating at the same time as anything that could distract you like checking your phone, chatting or watching the kids
Sip a drink in between mouthfuls as this can help your food slide down
Watch your posture. Sitting up straight on an upright chair generally works best
