What should a recently diagnosed Multiple Sclerosis(MS) patient ask his doctor

The Multiple Sclerosis Society of India was established in 1985 at Mumbai. Mrs. Rehmat Fazelboy, a social worker and Mr.Tobaccowalla (Chairman, Voltas Ltd, Mumbai) are the founding members. Presently there are 9 chapters with 2 support groups.  The Chennai Chapter was inaugurated on September 1997. Our patron doctor is Prof.Dr.G.Arjundas. Mrs.Ann Gonsalvez is the Chairperson of the Chennai Chapter. We have about 210 patients on our rolls in Chennai.  Our Vision: Create awareness of…

The proposed Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill smacks of hypocrisy and lip service. Should it be shown the door? An impassioned plea by the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India - Chennai Chapter INDIA MS DAY - 7th FEB 2016 India MS Day is on the First Sunday of February. This year we observe the 1st India MS Day which is on February 7, 2016. This is to raise awareness of Multiple Sclerosis in India. India MS Day is being highlighted by the colour RED. It also coincides with the…

While  there are currently no approved disease -modifying therapies to treat progressive MS, results from a recent Phase III trail could change that landscape. In a press announcement by Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, the company announced that the experiental monoclonal antibody, ocrelizumb, significantly slowed progression of disability compared to placebo in a Phase II trial involving 732 people with primary progressive MS. Additional data from the trial will be reported at the…

There is no method to prevent multiple sclerosis(MS) or its flare-ups. Medication may reduce the frequency or delay the onset of relapse in the case of relapsing-remitting MS and secondary progressive MS.  

In additon to what is described in the treatment section, it is also important to  Adopt a healthy lifestyle - Keep the following in mind: Take rest Exercise regularly – walking, swimming, yoga (depending on your condition). Do exercises that strengthen and stretch muscles.  Stay cool – heat exacerbates the problem Eat a healthy, balanced diet with lots of fibre and fish. Omega-3 fatty acids protect against inflammation.  Reduce stress  Learn relaxation techniques Adapt…

There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis, but several therapies have proven helpful in relieving the symptoms and improving the quality of life. The aims of therapy are to manage the acute condition or attack, returning to function after an attack, preventing new attacks, and preventing disability. Medication Any individual who experiences an acute episode (including optic neuritis) sufficient to cause distressing symptoms or an increased limitation on activities independent of whether it…

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis  There is no single specific diagnostic test available, but in practice, the diagnosis is done typically based on the presenting signs and symptoms, in combination with supporting medical imaging and laboratory testing.  Clinical data alone may be sufficient for a diagnosis of MS if an individual has had separate episodes of neurologic symptoms characteristic of the disease. In those who seek medical attention after only one attack, other testing is…

The clinical signs and symptoms of MS depend on the site of the loss of myelin in the central nervous system. The lesions may occur almost anywhere in the central nervous system, but they have a predilection for certain areas.  More than 60% of individuals with MS have visual problems caused by demyelinating lesions (loss of myelin) of the optic nerve, which is the nerve concerned with vision. The loss of vision usually occurs over a period of several days, with partial recovery within 1…

There are mainly two types:  1. Relapsing-remitting type 2. Progressive type The relapsing-remitting type is characterised by unpredictable relapses (worsening symptoms) followed by periods of remission (improvement from symptoms). It is the most common type and is seen in 80-90% of patients with MS.  The remaining 10-15% of MS patients have progressive type where the disease keeps on getting worse without any remission. There are 2 sub types in this progressive type. Primary…

The central nervous system is made of numerous cells called neurons. Neuron consists of 2 parts - cyton (cell body) and axon. The axon is covered by myelin, which helps in the conduction of nerve impulses or signals between the neurons. In multiple sclerosis, myelin in certain parts of the central nervous system is destroyed thereby impairing the conduction of nerve impulses. The exact cause of MS is not known, but some factors like immunity and genes are thought to play a role.  MS could…