Multiple sclerosis

MS affects people differently and is an unpredictable disease. There are different:

• types of MS
• courses for disease progression
• symptoms which can appear sporadically or be ongoing.

Symptoms may include:

• muscle weakness
• tension
• loss of balance
• vision problems
• fatigue
• pain.

Symptoms depend on which part of the central nervous system is being affected at the time.

There is no one test which says a person has MS. Unfortunately, the process can be difficult, and time consuming, as each person’s case of MS varies, and presents with different symptoms.

The neurologist will assess a person’s medical history, perform a thorough examination and detail their history and symptoms, before making a formal diagnosis.

In most cases, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is performed on the brain and spinal cord. This type of scan shows pictures of the inflammation, and areas of scar tissue, in the CNS. In some cases, evoked potentials (nerve transmission speed) may be measured and/or a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may be required.

It is not yet known what causes multiple sclerosis, or why it affects one person and not another. As a result, people with MS are often faced with uncertainty about the future. The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Western Australia (MSWA) supports people living with MS in WA, by:

• providing support services for people with MS, and their families, to help maintain their health as long as possible, until a cure is discovered
• funding research into a cause and a cure for MS
• building high support accommodation and respite facilities in various locations around WA.

The condition is not contagious, and while MS is not directly inherited, genetics does play an important role in who gets the disease. Current research into understanding the cause of MS is focusing on the role of genetics, exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus, lifestyle factors and vitamin D.

Treatments for RRMS aim to reduce the number and severity of relapses; ultimately reducing the damage that occurs leading to longer-term disability.

Early treatment is highly recommended and may involve a mix of medical treatments, medication and therapies. The majority of people diagnosed with MS do not become severely disabled.

Disease modifying therapies (DMTs) are medications which have been shown to decrease the frequency and severity of attacks or relapses, and slow the progression of disability in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis.

At present, there are only DMTs available for the relapsing-remitting form of MS. DMTs do not appear to modify the progressive forms of MS when people are not having relapses. There is also very little research evidence as to the safety of using DMTs during pregnancy and breast feeding. For this reason, treatment is generally suspended during this time.

It is important to discuss your options, and questions, thoroughly with your neurologist. The MSWA Nursing Team has information about these products and extensive experience with training, and side effect management, for all of the DMTs currently available.