It could as well be everyone’s nightmare but it is more persistent among young adults. The fatty protective cover that protects the brain or the axons of the spinal cord is damaged causing this condition that is also known as disseminated sclerosis. The neural communication between the brain and other parts of the body is interrupted and this results into a breakdown of signals that are sent to and from the brain via the fibers that are encased in the spinal cord. The funny side to this disease is that it is the victim’s body’s own cell system that damages the protective layer of fat that is around the fibers that carry signals in the spinal cord. Young females are more prone to an attack of multiple sclerosis but again the reason is not known. The resulting condition if treatment is not given in good time is physical disability, that is, impairment of normal functions like limb movements.
Once a victim has been diagnosed, the doctors can only attempt to prevent disability or the worsening of the situation. With patience and persistence, the body’s functions can be returned to normal. To date, no cure for this condition has been arrived at. The causes of multiple sclerosis are not known to date and they have kept doctors and researchers on their feet for many years trying to define the cause to no avail. What is known though is that a foreign object or subject gets into the central nervous system and triggers the body’s immune system leading to overproduction of immune booster cells. In the process, the protective myelin layer that is around the axon is damaged causing damage to the communication fibers that pass through the spinal cord.
Overtime, researchers and scientists in the medical field have been trying to ascertain whether or not it is true that multiple sclerosis is a hereditary disease. The conclusion so far is that it could well be genetic because white people are more prone to getting the disease while Africans chances are close to nil, especially among the Bantus.
In the cold climate, Eskimos do not, nor do the native Indians of America. There is room for improvement on the theory though. However, researchers have been able to ascertain that young adults come from families where a close relative has suffered multiple sclerosis. This could be brother, sister or parent. The chances of an identical twin suffering the disease are high after his/her twin has suffered the same. However, it does not necessarily mean that you must suffer because someone in your family once suffered.
The symptoms of multiple sclerosis include headaches and mild relapsing forms of neurological related attacks. Persistent headaches and numbness could also indicate an impending attack of the same. Should one experience these symptoms, it is advisable that he/she gets medical help as soon as possible because an early detection of this condition is the determinant factor in how well and efficiently the condition can be treated.
