Arthritis and multiple sclerosis

25 Jul 18

Multiple sclerosis in women: first signs and consequences of the disease

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that causes the immune system to destroy its own protective covering of the nerves. When this process develops, it destroys the connection between the brain and the rest of the body, resulting in damage to nerve tissue, which is irreversible.

Based on the severity and area of damage to nerve tissue, the symptoms of multiple sclerosis may vary. When a patient has a severe form of multiple sclerosis , there is a possibility that he will not be able to fully speak or move independently.

Most often, it is not possible , in particular due to the fact that symptoms can come periodically and disappear for a long time. There is also no specific advice on treatment in medicine, but experts know how to relieve symptoms and prevent the disease from worsening.

Multiple sclerosis in women

Multiple sclerosis in women is a chronic disease of the brain and spinal cord. The cause of the development of this disease is considered to be disturbances in the normal functioning of the human immune system.

When malfunctioning, immune system cells attack the spinal cord and brain, destroying the protective covering of nerve cells, which leads to scarring. When the fibers are completely destroyed, the nerve tissues are replaced by connective tissues.

Most often when people hear the term multiple sclerosis others mistake it for sclerosis, which is a disease of old people. But that's not true.

“Scattered” indicates that there may be several foci of the disease in different parts of the nervous system. In turn, “sclerosis” is a unique characteristic of disorders. Thus, the disease consists of plaques that are located on nerve tissue and can reach a size of several centimeters.

There are many neurological diseases that are characteristic of older people. You can learn more about neurology and symptoms of diseases from a similar article.

Today, this disease is not only well known, but also widespread, as it is the second on the list of causes of neurological disability in young people. Out of of 100 thousand , today approximately 30 people suffer from multiple sclerosis.

Causes

To date, scientists have only guesses why people suffer from multiple sclerosis , but it has still not been possible to accurately determine the reasons. It is known that myelin (the protective layer of nerves) can be destroyed when subjected to intervention, which means that the transmission of impulses along the nerve endings is significantly slowed down or completely blocked.

Presumably, the main cause of the development of multiple sclerosis is considered to be a disruption of the normal functions of the immune system , when instead of destroying foreign cells, it begins to destroy its own.

Scar plaques appear blocking the transmission of impulses from organs to the brain and vice versa. Thus, a person ceases to control his own actions, sensitivity decreases significantly, and speech slows down.

Scientists have identified factors that have, albeit minor, influence on the development of multiple sclerosis:

Gene mutation through generations - the presence of a genetic predisposition;

Constant nerves, being in stressful situations;

of viral and infectious diseases on the immune system

It has been noticed that the population of the northern parts of the planet is at greater risk of getting sick. The reason for this is a lack of vitamin D , the production of which in the body is activated under the influence of the sun.

Women are the most affected part of the population, suffering from multiple sclerosis approximately 3 times more often than men. But, despite this, they tolerate the disease much easier and have a much higher chance of recovery.

The assumption that a vaccine is aimed at producing antibodies against hepatitis B. But for now this is only a theory, without scientific evidence.

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis can differ significantly from each other, depending on the extent of the lesion and the area where the plaques are located.

Let's look at the main symptoms of the disease:

Fatigue appears

Memory quality decreases

Mental performance weakens

Unreasonable dizziness appears

Plunging into depression;

Frequent mood changes;

Involuntary vibrations of high frequencies appear

appears ;

Surrounding objects begin to appear double or completely blurred;

Speech deteriorates

When eating food, difficulty swallowing occurs;

may appear ;

Disorders of movement and hand motor skills;

Periodic pain, numbness of the limbs appears

The patient may suffer from diarrhea or constipation;

incontinence ;

Frequent urge to go to the toilet or lack thereof.

Since multiple sclerosis develops gradually, symptoms may appear and disappear in the early stages, becoming more noticeable as the patient's body temperature rises.

Symptoms of damage to the pyramidal tract are considered to be an increase in pyramidal reflexes, with a minimal decrease in muscle strength or no decrease in strength at all, but with fatigue during the performance of normal functions.

When tremors appear, problems with movement and motor skills, we can safely say that the cerebellum . At the same time, muscle strength and tone decrease significantly.

The first signs of multiple sclerosis appear during the period when the immune system destroys approximately 50% of nerve tissue.

Now the patient may have the following complaints:

Arms and legs may have different strengths . One limb may be weaker than the other or completely numb. Often patients cease to feel the lower part of the body;

Vision begins to rapidly deteriorate . The patient may see poorly in one eye or not see at all. Often any eye movements become painful;

Stitching pain may appear in different parts of the body . Tingling appears in the fingers;

The skin becomes less sensitive;

When you turn your head, you may feel a sensation of electric shock;

The limbs begin to shake voluntarily , the patient does not control his movements. When walking, the patient may be thrown to the sides.

Each symptom may differently . Even using the example of one patient, it is impossible to determine the exact signs of the disease, since they may appear partially and will be replaced by others over time.

It is worth noting that in some cases the patient’s general condition may deteriorate after taking a bath with hot water or spending a long time in stuffy rooms with high air temperatures.

If the body is severely overheated, a person may have an attack. It is also worth considering that the course of multiple sclerosis constantly alternates between times of deterioration and improvement of health, when the patient becomes well. To reduce the time of exacerbation of the disease, it is important to seek help in time and begin treatment.

Damage to cranial nerves

to the cranial nerves may occur , most often affecting the oculomotor, trigeminal, facial and hypoglossal nerves.
With craniocerebral damage, more than 60% of patients have sensory disorders not only external, but also internal. But at the same time, the patient is able to feel a slight tingling or even burning sensation in the fingers of the limbs.
Approximately 70% of patients experience visual impairment , they stop seeing the picture clearly, the brightness and quality of vision decreases, and colors begin to distort.
Neuropsychological disorders appear , thinking and memory deteriorate significantly, and habits change radically. The state of depression becomes common.

With all this, with damage to the cranial nerves , in general, the patient’s condition remains at the same level. It worsens during exacerbations, but is always followed by remission, which gives a feeling of complete recovery.

The alternations continue throughout the entire time, but each time the exacerbations become more severe, bringing with them certain consequences. This continues until the person remains disabled.

Cerebellar disorders

Cerebellar disorders manifest themselves in several stages:

Initially, the patient loses the ability to move independently;
Then voluntary movements of the limbs are disrupted;
This is followed by scanning speech - a sign of complications of multiple sclerosis.

Most often, such disorders are difficult to identify, largely due to disturbances in sensitivity and movement. Cerebellar ataxia in multiple sclerosis most often develops along with involuntary muscle tension, which only increases the patient’s disability.

Cerebellar ataxia can be recognized by the following manifestations:

The gait changes , it becomes uneven and uncertain;
Coordination of movements is impaired due to loss of sense of distance and size of surrounding objects. We have already discussed in detail the issue of causes and treatment when coordination of movements is impaired in a similar article.
Performing quick alternations of movements, from the outside they look awkward.

Pelvic disorders

Pelvic disorders include disorders of the urinary system, which occur in 60-95% of patients.

Experts distinguish the following levels of disorders:

Disorders at the cerebral level are characterized by damage to the center of the urinary system - the patient may experience a slight decrease or complete loss of control over the process of urination. The patient begins to urinate more often and may suffer from urinary incontinence.

The suprasacral level indicates disorders in the cervical, thoracic, and also in the spine. Thus, the patient’s urination becomes a difficult process, while the stream released is quite sluggish and intermittent.

After urination, the patient has a feeling of fullness of the bladder. It is at the sacral level that lesions in pelvic disorders are most common among patients with multiple sclerosis.

With sacral disorders, the patient completely lacks any urge to empty the bladder, the secreted stream is very thin, urinary retention becomes chronic, the patient constantly feels that the bladder is full, even after urinating.

Movement disorders

Multiple sclerosis in patients is also accompanied by the following movement disorders:

Involuntary muscle tension in the limbs;
Muscle weakness;
Cerebellar and sensory ataxia.

The first symptom indicating the disability of a patient with multiple sclerosis is an increase in the tone of the muscles of the limbs.

It occurs in almost all patients with multiple sclerosis. Observing the patient, you can see problems with the implementation of habitual movements, as well as periodic flexor spasms, which are quite painful. This type makes it most difficult for the patient to move independently.

The most common movement disorder is weakening of the muscles of the limbs , namely paralysis of the lower body. This type of disorder develops over time. Initially, the patient may simply get tired quickly, but gradually this feeling develops into permanent muscle weakness.

Emotional and mental disorders

a connection between multiple sclerosis and emotional disorders , but it is controversial. On the one hand, mood swings are a direct consequence of the disease, and on the other hand, they are a kind of protective mechanism.

The following emotional disturbances may occur in patients with multiple sclerosis:

State of euphoria;
Long-term depression;
Forced laughter or crying;
Frontal dysfunction.

If a patient develops such disorders, it is necessary to accurately determine the duration, their impact on the patient’s normal life, and also confirm the fact that they appeared precisely with the development of multiple sclerosis.

It is also not uncommon for multiple sclerosis to experience memory disorders. Scientists have highlighted the following statistics:

Approximately 40% of patients experience mild memory problems or no such disorders are observed;
About 30% notice partial memory problems;
Another 30% experience severe memory impairment due to multiple sclerosis.

At the same time, patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis also experience the following mental disorders:

Attentiveness decreases
The patient cannot form a concept;
There is no abstract thinking, the ability to plan is lost;
decreases .

As in any other disease, so in the case of multiple sclerosis, the earlier the problem can be identified, the more happy and active years the patient will have. This means that if you have several symptoms indicating neurological disorders, you need to seek help from specialists.

Today there are no special tests that will accurately indicate multiple sclerosis; to a large extent, the diagnosis is made by excluding other diseases with similar symptoms.

The doctor may prescribe the following diagnostic methods:

Collection of blood for analysis;
Taking a spinal tap;
MRI;
Analysis of evoked potentials.
Try to be less nervous , not to become mentally overtired;
Exercise regularly, to the best of your ability, preferably in the fresh air;
Get rid of bad habits;
Monitor your weight (must be within the normal range);
Avoid overheating the body;
Try to avoid hormonal contraception;
while symptoms subside .

Nowadays, approximately 25% live for years with multiple sclerosis, while continuing to work and take care of themselves independently. About 10% of cases end in disability after 5 years of fighting the disease.

Impulses to and from the brain are transmitted along nerve fibers in the same way that an electrical impulse travels. Most nerve fibers are covered with a special substance called myelin. In multiple sclerosis, myelin is destroyed, followed by the formation of connective tissue (sclerosis). Multiple sclerosis is difficult to diagnose because... Symptoms of the disease are variable and periodic. Medical examination in the early stages of the disease may not reveal anything unusual. As a result, the doctor comes to the conclusion that the complaints are purely emotional and exaggerated. Often the diagnosis is made in the process of identifying other diseases.

There is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis. There are medications that can reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations.

The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown, but many researchers believe the state of the immune system plays a role.

There are many cases of hereditary predisposition to the disease.

According to one theory, the trigger for immune dysfunction is a virus that turns the immune system against normal tissue in the body. Part of the body's response is a pathological effect on myelin, which leads to the development of multiple sclerosis.

While the course of multiple sclerosis is highly unpredictable, most patients experience symptoms that come and go. The disease usually begins between the ages of 20 and 40 years. There may be months or years of remission between episodes of the disease, but usually this interval gradually becomes shorter. The loss of the ability to move is progressive and permanent, and in rare cases the disease leads to premature death. In some cases, the course is characterized by frequent exacerbations, and the person quickly breaks down, while other patients can lead a normal life even if a number of alarming symptoms appear.

Complications of multiple sclerosis

In some cases, especially when the disease begins in middle age, multiple sclerosis is fatal within a few years. Recurrent urinary tract infections are a risk factor for the development of renal failure.

What can you do

Living with multiple sclerosis is difficult. During the period when the symptoms of the disease are not yet so severe, restorative treatment, adequate rest, and diet should be provided. Physiotherapeutic helps prevent limitation of muscle function.

Some patients drink cranberry juice to reduce the risk of bladder infections, a major problem in multiple sclerosis.

A doctor should be visited as soon as the first suspicion of the disease appears.

There are no means to prevent the disease.

What can a doctor do?

Prescribing drugs that can slow the progression of the disease, immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatory drugs. Carrying out physiotherapeutic procedures to relieve symptoms of the disease.

The doctor’s actions are aimed at preventing the development of other symptoms of multiple sclerosis. For this purpose, an X-ray examination of the skull, computed tomography or brain examination using nuclear magnetic resonance is performed.

Multiple sclerosis: symptoms and treatment

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic demyelinating disease of the nervous system. It also has incompletely understood causes and an autoimmune-inflammatory mechanism of development. It is a disease with a very diverse clinical picture, difficult to diagnose in the early stages, and there is not a single specific clinical sign that characterizes multiple sclerosis. Treatment consists of the use of immunomodulators and symptomatic agents. The action of immune drugs is aimed at stopping the process of destruction of nerve structures by antibodies. Symptomatic medications eliminate the functional consequences of these destructions.

You can learn about the initial signs of multiple sclerosis from the article of the same name. Now let's talk about the detailed clinical picture, methods of diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

The manifestations of multiple sclerosis are very diverse, since the disease affects the entire nervous system. The lesions turn out to be scattered in different parts; instead of nervous tissue, connective tissue is formed in these places, and the function that this area performed is lost, therefore all clinical manifestations are systematized according to the location of the lesion in the nervous system.

There are typical signs of multiple sclerosis and atypical, rare ones, which, however, should not be forgotten. Usually, one patient simultaneously exhibits signs of damage to different functional systems (due to the dispersion of the damage).

They represent a display of damage to the pathways of the nervous system. These are the so-called “classic” symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

This group of symptoms includes damage to the pyramidal tracts, which occurs in 85-97% of cases, i.e. observed in almost every patient. It can be:

paresis or paralysis - decreased muscle strength in the limbs. The lower extremities are most often affected. As the disease progresses, paresis can spread until all four limbs are affected;
increased tendon reflexes (tested with a neurological hammer from the arms and legs) and reduction and loss of superficial ones (the latter is especially characteristic of abdominal reflexes);
pathological symptoms - Babinsky, Gordon, Bekhterev, Zhukovsky and others. They are always checked by a neurologist during a routine neurological examination;
increased muscle tone, so-called muscle spasticity. At rest, muscles become tense and hard to the touch. This symptom, along with muscle weakness, can make it difficult for patients to move (if it occurs in the legs) or prevent them from performing normal household self-care techniques (if it occurs in the arms);
the appearance of clonus of the foot, hand and kneecaps. This is an extreme degree of increased reflexes. Clonus are rhythmic movements of the foot, hand, or kneecap. Caused by stretching of muscles or tendons. For example, foot clonus is caused by its maximum extension (by the doctor's hand) with the leg bent at the knee and hip joints. The foot is held in an extension position and makes involuntary flexion-extension movements, as if tapping the doctor’s hand. The presence of clonus in the hand and patella is examined in a similar manner.

Coordination system (damage to cerebellar pathways)

Similar symptoms develop in 62-87% of patients:

gait disturbance – the patient “rocks” from side to side, staggers even on a flat surface. In later stages, this is accompanied by falls or even leads to the inability to move;
decreased muscle tone is a characteristic symptom of cerebellar damage. If damage to the motor system predominates, then the tone will be increased, if the cerebellar tone will be decreased;
missing - any targeted movements do not achieve their goal. If you ask a patient to hit the tip of his nose with a finger while his eyes are closed, he will poke it into his cheek, the wing of his nose, or even his eye. Such disorders interfere with self-care skills, eating, etc.;
speech disorder - speech becomes abrupt, chanting, words are divided into separate syllables, which are pronounced separately and with emphasis on each syllable;
violation of handwriting - it becomes uneven, extends beyond the boundaries of the lines;
trembling of the limbs and head when performing movements;
nystagmus - oscillatory, rhythmic, involuntary eye movements. It can be so pronounced that it gives the impression of “jumping” eyes. Because of this, vision may be impaired.

Damage to the brainstem and cranial nerves

Occurs in 36-81% of cases:

limitation of eye mobility when looking to the sides, up, down;
strabismus, double vision;
violation of combined movements of the eyeballs: for example, when looking up, one eye looks up and the other deviates to the side. This is called internuclear ophthalmoplegia;
weakness of the facial muscles (paresis of the facial nerve) - the face is distorted, the eye on the affected side does not close completely, lacrimation develops from it, food and water pour out of the mouth, it is impossible to smile, etc.;
pain in the facial area like trigeminal neuralgia;
unclearness, blurred speech, choking when eating, getting food and water into the nose, difficulty swallowing - the so-called bulbar symptoms (develop when the nuclei of the medulla oblongata are damaged);
the development of retrobulbar neuritis is very common in multiple sclerosis (often the debut of the disease). Manifested by impaired visual acuity and the ability to distinguish colors. The difference in brightness and contrast of the image is no longer visible. In the patient’s field of vision, black dots, gray spots are seen, and sometimes there is a feeling as if you are looking into a pipe. Some half of the visual fields may disappear. Pupillary reactions to light are impaired. When examining the fundus, pallor of the optic nerve head (especially its temporal halves) is revealed, and optic nerve atrophy develops.

Sensory impairment

Happens in 56-92% of cases:

disorders of deep sensitivity - the body loses control over the perception of its muscles, tendons, joints, i.e. the brain does not receive impulses from these structures. How does this manifest itself? For example, a doctor asks a patient to close his eyes. Touches one of the fingers or toes and makes a slight movement with this finger (bends, straightens, moves to the side). And the patient must say which finger the doctor touches, and in which direction the movement is made. If the patient cannot correctly determine this, then this means that he has disorders of deep sensitivity. Due to such disorders, walking worsens even more, since the patient ceases to feel the surface on which he moves;
the presence of paresthesia (crawling sensation, itching, burning, numbness, etc.);
areas of loss of pain and temperature sensitivity - when the patient does not feel the difference between hot and cold, between touching and pricking the skin with a needle;
pain in muscles, spine.

Pelvic organ dysfunction

Occurs in 26-53% of cases:

urinary disorders - urinary retention or incontinence (there may be a constant release of urine drop by drop, or there may be periodic emptying as it becomes full, only without a feeling of urge);
violation of the act of defecation is characteristic of later stages of the disease. By analogy with urinary disorders, constipation or fecal incontinence are possible;
sexual dysfunction - erectile dysfunction (impotence), lack of orgasm, decreased libido. In women, the menstrual cycle is disrupted.

Neuropsychological symptoms

Such violations are detected in 65-95% of cases:

asthenic syndrome – increased fatigue, rapid exhaustion during mental and physical stress;
impairment of memory, thinking, attention;
depression or euphoria;
irritability, dissatisfaction, hysterical attacks;
chronic fatigue syndrome.

Atypical manifestations

Determined only in 5-20% of patients with multiple sclerosis:

autonomic disorders (attacks of dizziness with nausea and vomiting, sympatho-adrenal crises, attacks of slow heartbeat and low blood pressure);
epileptic seizures;
attacks of hiccups, coughing, yawning, muscle spasms;
episodes of acute loss of speech with dizziness, hearing loss;
Lhermitte's symptom is a sensation of electric current passing along the spine when the head is tilted forward.

The course of multiple sclerosis usually involves exacerbations and remissions. In some cases, it occurs without moments of stabilization and improvement from the very beginning, and sometimes with constant progression of symptoms.

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis is very difficult. This is facilitated by both the variety of symptoms and their ability to disappear (“flickering” symptoms) in the initial stages of the disease. To diagnose multiple sclerosis use:

neurological examination to identify clinical symptoms;
examination by an ophthalmologist with examination of the fundus and determination of visual fields;
MRI of the brain and spinal cord using a high-power machine using contrast agents (allows you to detect foci of connective tissue - “plaques”);
study of evoked potentials;
oligoclonal antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid (cerebrospinal fluid), which confirm the immunopathological process in the nervous system (can also be observed in other infectious diseases of the nervous system, for example, neuroAIDS).

Today, the generally accepted criteria for making a diagnosis are the criteria of McDonald et al., 2001. They include taking into account clinical symptoms and changes in MRI, evoked potentials, and cerebrospinal fluid.

To select effective treatment, it is necessary to take into account many aspects of the course of the disease in a particular patient. Treatment for multiple sclerosis is highly individualized, since the symptoms (or combinations of symptoms) are different for all patients. But there are general principles that are followed when prescribing therapy for all patients with multiple sclerosis:

treatment as early as possible;
constant use of medications (even during remissions, to prevent the next exacerbation and slow progression);
the use of agents that suppress the autoimmune inflammatory process, which prevents the formation of new lesions;
combining different drugs to achieve greater effectiveness.

All treatment agents are divided into two groups: agents for pathogenetic treatment (affect the mechanism of development of multiple sclerosis) and symptomatic drugs. In addition, treatment is very different during the period of exacerbation and during remission.

Pathogenetic treatment

It is carried out both at the onset of the disease, during exacerbation, and in remission. The goal of such therapy is to stop the autoimmune inflammatory process and prevent myelin destruction.

At this stage apply:

Pulse corticosteroid therapy is a short course of large doses of hormones intravenously. Typically, methylprednisolone (Metypred, Solu-medrol) is used 500-1000 mg in 200-400 ml of saline intravenously at a rate of 25-30 drops per minute once a day (in the morning) for 3-7 days. The duration of the course and dosage depend on the severity of neurological disorders. To prevent the side effects of methylprednisolone, potassium preparations (Asparkam, Panangin) and a diet rich in potassium salts (bananas, baked potatoes, apples, raisins) are simultaneously prescribed; substances that protect the gastric mucosa (Ranitidine, Cimetidine, Almagel, Phosphalugel); antibiotics (since hormones reduce the body's defenses, and infection may occur). After pulse therapy, continue taking methylprednisolone tablets, starting with a dose of 24 mg, gradually discontinuing the drug;
if pulse therapy cannot be carried out, then use Dexamethasone intravenously or intramuscularly 1 time per day, starting with 128 mg (64 mg, 32 mg depending on the severity of symptoms), gradually reducing the dose by 2 times every two days (64 mg 2 days, 32 mg for 2 days, 16 mg for 2 days, etc., as if gradually withdrawing the drug);
plasmapheresis – purification of blood plasma from antibodies circulating in it. It takes about 2 weeks: during this time, 3-5 procedures are performed (with a break of several days). Using a special device, blood is taken from a vein and passed through a filter system. In it, the blood is divided into cellular elements and plasma. Then the cellular elements are mixed with donor plasma (or with artificial plasma substitutes), and in this form are returned to the patient through another vein. Sometimes plasmapheresis is combined with pulse therapy with hormones;
human immunoglobulin for intravenous administration (Sandoglobulin, Pentaglobulin) 200-400 mg/kg per day infusions at a rate of 20 drops per minute for 5 days in a row;
in case of ineffectiveness of hormones, with the steady progression of multiple sclerosis, cytostatics are used (Azathioprine, Cyclophosphamide, Cyclosporine A, Methotrexate, etc.), which suppress the autoimmune process. However, the use of cytostatics has a downside: they are very toxic. These drugs have many severe side effects. They lead to a sharp decrease in leukocytes, erythrocytes, platelets (which is accompanied by a decrease in the body's defenses, the development of anemia, blood clotting disorders), cause drug-induced hepatitis, hair loss, and lead to frequent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
antiplatelet agents, drugs that improve blood circulation - Dipyridamole, Curantil, Pentoxifylline;
if high titers of antibodies to the herpes virus are detected - Zovirax, Valtrex;
interferon inducers – Cycloferon, Amiksin.

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that requires ongoing treatment, even during remission. Clinical symptoms may decrease and the condition may improve, but the process of myelin destruction will continue. To stop the autoimmune process, prevent the progression of the disease, and slow down disability, a special group of drugs is used: preventive (immunomodulatory) therapy drugs. International studies have proven their effectiveness in multiple sclerosis. These are drugs - interferon (Avonex, Betaferon, Rebif) and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone). The choice of drug depends on the stage of the disease, the mechanism of action and, unfortunately, on the financial capabilities of the patient. Avonex is used 6 million IU once a week intramuscularly, Rebif 6 or 12 million IU 3 times a week subcutaneously, Betaferon 8 million or 16 million IU every other day subcutaneously, Copaxone 20 mg orally daily.

For this group of medications, it is very important to start taking them as early as possible: as soon as the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is made, it is necessary to start taking them immediately and take them constantly, without interruption. This allows you to prevent the occurrence of new exacerbations, and therefore prevent new functional disorders in the patient. After all, preventing destruction is easier and more effective than treating the consequences. Thus, a person remains able to work for a long time and remains socially active. And this is what we strive for in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, since it is not yet possible to completely cure this disease.

Symptomatic treatment

This type of treatment involves the use of a wide variety of drugs to reduce the symptoms of multiple sclerosis that have already occurred. Symptomatic treatment is used both in the period of exacerbation and in the period of remission. Therapy is carried out asymptomatically:

spasticity (increased muscle tone) – Sirdalud (Tizanidine, Tizalud), Baclofen, Mydocalm, Clonazepam, physical therapy, acupressure, botulinum toxin injections, hyperbaric oxygenation sessions;
muscle weakness – Neuromidin, Glycine, Cerebrolysin, Gliatilin, B vitamins;
dizziness - Betaserc (Vestibo, Vestinorm), Phezam, Stugeron-forte, Thiocetam, Nicotinamide, acupuncture;
dysfunction of urination - normalization of the drinking regime, exclusion of caffeine and alcohol, magnetic and electrical stimulation of the bladder, training of the pelvic floor muscles. For urinary incontinence - Driptan, Adiuretin, Desmospray; for urinary retention - Neuromidin, Gliatilin;
impaired coordination - β-blockers (Propranolol, Anaprilin), small doses of antidepressants (Amitriptyline), vitamin B6, Magne-B6, Glycine, physical therapy methods to increase vestibular adaptation;
tremors - Carbamazepine (Tegretol, Finlepsin);
metabolic therapy – Cerebrolysin, Nootropil, Encephabol, Glutamic acid, Methionine, B vitamins (Neurobeks, Milgamma, Neurorubin), vitamin C and E, Glycine, Essentiale, Lipoic acid;
chronic fatigue - Semax, Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Sirlift, Zoloft), Stimol, Enerion, ginseng and eleutherococcus extracts, psychotherapy;
headaches associated with increased intracranial pressure - Diacarb, Glycerin, Magne-B6, Magnesium sulfate, Lysine escinate, Cyclo 3 fort;
paroxysmal pain and conditions (trigeminal neuralgia, Lhermitte's symptom, paresthesia) - Carbamazepine (Finlepsin), Difenin, Convulsofin (Depakine), Gabapentin (Gabagamma, Neurontin), Pregabalin, Lamotrigine, Clonazepam;
depression - Coaxil, Amitriptyline, Lerivon, Fluxetine (Prozac).

Multiple sclerosis is a serious neurological disease that occurs mainly in young people. It has many symptoms that can serve as “masks” for other diseases. It occurs with exacerbations and remissions. Diagnosed by clinical manifestations and data from additional research methods. Requires constant and long-term treatment, without which it leads to loss of ability to work and disability.

Multiple sclerosis - news 2017

Before talking about the news of 2017 in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, it is necessary to remember what this disease is, its causes, symptoms, and treatment methods.

Multiple sclerosis what is it

Multiple sclerosis is an incurable disease of chronic origin that damages the nerve fibers and tissues of the brain and spinal cord. The brain loses the function of transmitting nerve impulses between its lobes.

No definite causes of the autoimmune disease have been found. In theory they consider:

Infectious diseases;
Virological diseases;
Dysfunction of the circulatory system - lymphocytes destroy healthy cells of the body along with defective ones;
Hereditary genotype.

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis are identical to many signs of neurological diseases. Therefore, making a correct diagnosis at an early stage is difficult. The main symptoms can be identified:

Temporary visual impairment;
Dizziness, constant fatigue;
Unnatural movements;
Weakness in the limbs;
Increased sensitivity to pain;
Numbness of the limbs;
Speech disorders;
Partial paralysis.

Types of multiple sclerosis

Depending on the symptoms, multiple sclerosis is divided into types:

Remitting – characterized by a change from remission to relapse with a sharp deterioration in the patient’s condition. Symptoms are variable;
Progressive multiple sclerosis of the first degree - characterized by a gradual loss of performance, does not have a pronounced state of remission or relapse;
Progressive multiple sclerosis of the second degree - develops dynamically throughout the entire period of the disease;
Multiple sclerosis is progressive-remitting - characterized by a gradual loss of performance combined with a sharp outbreak of relapse.

The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is not made based on medical history and routine examinations. The only reliable test that will determine the presence of the disease is an MRI.

Tomography will determine the presence of pathologies in the brain and the level of structural changes in nerve tissue.

A complex treatment for multiple sclerosis is prescribed by a neurologist. Based on the degree of damage to brain tissue and the progressive nature of the disease, therapy begins immediately.

The main ones in therapy are:

Medicines aimed at suppressing the immune system. The doctor prescribes hormonal drugs and cytostatics that inhibit the body’s lymphocytes;
Injections to control remissions and relapses in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis;
Interferon drugs relieve symptoms and reduce the number of exacerbations;
Teriflunomide - reduces the frequency of relapses;
Dimityl fumarate - provides nerve cells with protection from destruction;
Alemtuzumat - slows down the processes of damage to the nervous tissue of the brain.

Innovative solutions in the field of treatment

A new treatment method was developed in Montreal at the Lady Davis Hospital Institute. The new drug GIFT15 does not consist of chemical elements, but of a pair of proteins. The combination of which formed a new protein hormone. This hormone carries out therapy at the cellular level, returning the immune system to normal functioning. Studies conducted on mice gave satisfactory results in remission.

Russian scientists also began developing an analogue of the Israeli drug glatiramer acetate based on glaceramoid. This drug significantly increases the duration and quality of life, suppresses the signs of multiple sclerosis, and reduces the number and intensity of relapses. The medicine is classified as expensive and is used throughout life. An analogue developed by a Russian company is much cheaper. At the same time, it has identical qualities, has a high degree of efficiency, and is safe to use. The analogue drug is produced on the Russian market using domestic raw materials.

News feed 2016

There is news in the treatment of multiple sclerosis in 2017. Many new treatment drugs are in the clinical research phase.

Cladribine - according to its clinical indicators, it should restore normal lymphocyte function and reduce structural changes in the brain. But during experimental studies, side effects appeared: relapses of brain pathologies, the appearance of malignant tumors. The drug was deregistered. After finalization, US pharmacists will re-apply for registration of the drug.
Laquinimod - restores the lymphocytic function of the immune system, reduces the number of acute conditions, and inhibits destructive neurological processes.
Mitoxantrone is a cytotoxic drug that suppresses the immune system, reduces the number of relapses and reduces the degree of development of sclerosis.

The main news in the treatment of multiple sclerosis in 2016 is the appearance of a new drug on the domestic market. Russian biologists began developing a vaccine for the treatment of multiple sclerosis in 2017.

This drug is truly something new in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. The drug is developed on the basis of liposomes, artificially created fat molecules. Such molecules consist of myelinin particles, which restore nerve connections. This medicine for multiple sclerosis inhibits the further development of pathology and restores normal immune function. Clinical trials of a drug for multiple sclerosis are currently being conducted on volunteers. Based on their results, the drug will be approved for mass treatment of multiple sclerosis.

In 2016, a new cure for multiple sclerosis based on the use of stem cells will appear. The technique is carried out at an early stage of the disease and is characterized by blocking T-lymphocytes that destroy the myelin sheath of nerve cells.

A completely new method of treating multiple sclerosis in 2016 is fullerene therapy. The method, developed by Israeli pharmacists, activates substances and amino acids that stimulate the restoration and activity of nerve cells. Interesting news in the treatment of multiple sclerosis was the development of the drug ATX-MS-1467 by US chemical pharmacists, who claim that a new medicine has been found - these are injections that stimulate the restoration of normal functioning of the immune system and suppress the symptoms of the disease. The drug has a low percentage of side effects. The new drug reduces the percentage of brain cell damage.

The latest news in the treatment of multiple sclerosis is research from the University Hospital Dusseldorf. A team of scientists has discovered an antibody to the envelope protein (ENV) of the HERV-W virus reactivated in human DNA, which promotes the regeneration and formation of the myelin sheath of nerve cells.

Despite the fact that science does not stand still, research is being conducted in the field of treatment of the disease, it is necessary to observe preventive measures: a healthy lifestyle, active recreation, sports, the use of vitamin preparations, a sufficient amount of vitamin D and timely diagnosis will help avoid serious consequences and difficult treatment.

The latest news is that biopharmacists around the world are trying to create a cure for autoimmune diseases, and perhaps a cure for multiple sclerosis will soon be found.

We will continue to keep you up to date with the latest news about multiple sclerosis.

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the brain and spinal cord, characterized by the development of demyelination foci scattered in time and space and manifested by diffuse neurological symptoms. The clinic has created all the conditions for the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis: high-tech equipment is used, the clinic cooperates with leading centers in Russia and the world. Patients are provided with a full range of services: outpatient examination, diagnostics, inpatient treatment, rehabilitation. The examination is carried out using constantly updated modern equipment.

Prevalence of multiple sclerosis

The prevalence of MS varies significantly in different regions of the world. There are 3 zones that differ in the prevalence of MS: low (less than 10 cases per 100 thousand population), medium (10-50 per 100 thousand) and high (more than 50 per 100 thousand) risk. The high-risk area includes northern Europe, northern USA, southern Canada, New Zealand and south-eastern Australia. The medium risk zone includes Eastern and Southern Europe, the southern United States and most of Australia. Central and South America, Africa, Asia and Oceania constitute a low-risk area. The highest prevalence of MS is recorded in the Orkney Islands (UK) - approximately 300 cases per 100,000 population. The estimated prevalence of MS in most regions of Russia is 35–70 cases per 100 thousand population.

Multiple sclerosis is a disease of young people, most often the disease begins between 20 and 40 years of age. In rare cases, MS may begin in the seventh decade of life or during adolescence. The peak incidence among women is observed on average 5 years earlier than among men. Relapsing-remitting MS usually begins at 25–29 years of age and transforms into secondary progressive MS at 40–44 years of age. Primary progressive MS typically begins later, between ages 35 and 39. MS, like most other autoimmune diseases, is more common in women. Primary progressive MS is slightly more common in men.

Development of multiple sclerosis

The development of MS is based on autoimmune reactions, predominantly cell-mediated, which lead to the development of a chronic inflammatory process in the central nervous system, accompanied by the destruction of myelin (demyelination). The etiology of MS is not precisely known. It is generally accepted that this is a multifactorial disease, the development of which requires both a hereditary predisposition and exposure to environmental factors.

Neurologists are proficient in all modern diagnostic methods and approach the selection of medications individually for each patient. During the treatment process, their doses are changed and the most effective medications for a particular case are selected. The Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Center at the Yusupov Hospital employs a team of experienced doctors who are leading specialists in the treatment of multiple sclerosis in Russia.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, progressive disease of the nervous system, characterized by a wide variety of clinical manifestations and an undulating course. Multiple sclerosis begins mainly in young people (20-30 years and earlier), much less often occurs at older ages and very rarely in children.

Causes of multiple sclerosis.

The sheath surrounding the nerve fibers (myelin) becomes inflamed and destroyed. Foci of destroyed tissue can appear in any part of the central nervous system, which causes a variety of symptoms.

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

The lower extremities are most often affected by paresis (paralysis), and less often the upper extremities. Patients complain of impaired gait and balance. Impaired coordination of movements, handwriting, tremor appears, speech changes (the patient speaks as if in syllables). A feature of sensitivity disorders is that patients cannot clearly describe them and often complain of numbness and burning in the extremities. Visual disturbances include decreased visual acuity, as well as changes in visual fields. Disturbances in urination appear early; there may be both increased frequency and urinary retention. In later stages, urinary incontinence usually develops. Men may experience decreased potency due to spinal cord damage. Patients who have been ill for a long time experience impaired memory, thinking, and all kinds of emotional disturbances. Depression appears with states of apathy and anxiety. The course of the disease is long, with alternating exacerbations and remissions; in some patients it leads to rapid disability.

Treatment of multiple sclerosis.

At the onset and during exacerbations of the disease, glucocorticoid and adrenocorticotropic hormones and drugs that regulate the vestibular apparatus are prescribed. Immunosuppressants and immunomodulators (levamisole, T-activin) can be used. Massage and physical therapy help. Sooner or later, patients will learn about their illness, but in the first stages of the disease, mention of multiple sclerosis should be avoided in every possible way.

MEDICINES USED IN THE TREATMENT OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS (AS PRESCRIPTED AND UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF A NEUROLOGIST)

Dexamethasone (Daxin, Dexasone, Cortidex, Novomethasone,

Cortisone (Cortisone acetate) Methylprednisolone (Advantan, Medrol, Metypred, Prednol, Solu Medrol, Urbazon) Prednisolone (Decortin, Metypred)

Tetracosactide (Synacthen Depot)

Drugs affecting the nervous system

Baclofen (Lioresal) Betahistine (Betaserc, Microser)

Diazepam (Apaurin, Valium.Relanium, Reladorm, Seduxen)

Dipyridamole (Curantyl, Penseline, Persad, Persantine, Trombonil)

Pentoxifylline (Agapurin, Arbiflex, Vazonit, Dartelin, Mellinorm, Pentilin, Pentohexal, Radomin, Ralofect, Trenpental, Trental, Flexital, Quinotal)

Theophylline (Aminophylline, Afonil, Difilin, Retafil, Theostat, Theotard, Eufillin)

Vitamin B, (Aneurin, Aneuril, Benerva, Venevrin, Berin,

Betabion, Betamin, Betaxin, Bevimin, Bevital, Orizanin, Thiamine) Vitamin B2 (Beflavin, Beflavit, Betavitam, Lactobene,

Lactoflavin, Riboflavin, Flavaxin, Flavitol) Vitamin Wb (Adermin, Beadox, Bedoxin, Benadon, Besatin, Pirivito, Pyridoxine)

Vitamin B12 (Hydroxycobalamin, Cyanocobalamin) Vitamin C (Biovital vitamin C, Redoxon, UPSA C, Celascon) Vitamin E

Cyclophosphamide (Ledoxin, Cyclophosphamide, Cytoxan, Endoxan)

Levamisole (Decaris, Vermox, Mebendazole)

Sclerosis. Treatment with folk remedies according to Vanga’s recipes

Lubricate the entire body with honey and massage it with sharp movements, as if tearing the skin away from the body.

You should also rub the head area with a rough cloth and make active movements with your arms and legs. Exercise should stimulate the patient's appetite and fatigue.

Jams made from calamus and long pepper are considered medicinal products for such patients. You can also take equal parts of incense, sati tubers, white pepper, and saffron. All this is mixed with honey and consumed daily. Those suffering from sclerosis are recommended to include in their diet as many apples, raw and boiled vegetables as possible: beets, carrots, radishes, turnips, cabbage, cucumbers, sweet peppers, eggplants, as well as various pumpkin dishes.

Arnica flowers (1 teaspoon), yarrow herb (1 tablespoon). Drink a glass of infusion throughout the day;

Caraway fruits (1 teaspoon), small periwinkle leaves (1 teaspoon), hawthorn root (1 tablespoon). Take the infusion 2 glasses a day; /7guru/

Hawthorn flowers (1.5 teaspoons), mistletoe herb (1.5 teaspoons), small periwinkle leaves (1.5 teaspoons), yarrow herb (2 teaspoons). Drink a glass of infusion during the day (treatment for a month).

Mix radish juice with honey (1:1), take 1 - 2 tablespoons. The daily dose is 1/2 cup of the mixture at the beginning of the preventive course and 2 cups at the end. Give children 1 - 2 teaspoons 2 - 3 times a day. The course lasts 1 month and is conducted 1–2 times a year.

Pass 350 g of garlic through a meat grinder 2 times, pour in 200 g of alcohol; leave in a dark place for 10 days, filter. Drink 20 drops 2-3 times a day 30 minutes before meals with milk. The course of treatment is once every 5 years.

Boil 200 g of rowan bark over low heat for 2 hours in 0.5 liters of water. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day half an hour before meals.

It is very useful to take 1/4 cup of red currant juice half an hour before meals.

Infuse ripe and dried Schisandra chinensis fruits in rakia (vodka) 1:5 for 10 days. Take 20-30 drops 2 times a day in the morning and at lunch before meals. Course 20 – 25 days.

Categories : Tips