Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the nervous system. This condition is caused by the immune system attacking a vital component of the brain known as myelin. The myelin helps to convey signals between the neurons.
Damage to the myelin causes impairment of the part of the brain involved. This results in a variety of symptoms, depending on the specific area of the brain that is involved. Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease, and there is no known cure for it.
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
There are several symptoms of multiple sclerosis, and they range in severity over time. Fatigue is one of the symptoms of this condition. The sufferer will feel extremely exhausted when participating in any form of activity. Some multiple sclerosis sufferers have bowel or bladder problems. Multiple sclerosis sufferers may have very frequent urination, and incontinence may also occur. Constipation may also be experienced, as digestion may be slower than normal.
Cognitive problems are also experienced by multiple sclerosis sufferers. Short-term memory loss, judgment capabilities and difficulties in concentrating are also symptoms of this disease. This condition may cause mood swings as well as emotional outbursts. Another symptom of this disease is vision irregularities. Blind spots may occur, and vision may become blurred. Sufferers may experience double vision or other vision problem. Other symptoms that may occur include communication difficulty, speech problems, muscle spasms, instability and loss of coordination and vertigo or dizziness.
Natural Treatments For Multiple Sclerosis
Choosing the best multiple sclerosis treatment depends on the symptoms experienced, and severity of the condition. You will need to determine which remedies work best for your situation. Herbal remedies for Multiple sclerosis include chamomile, St. John's wort, echinacea, and fish oil. Additional herbs that are used to relieve multiple sclerosis symptoms include echinacea, sage, and milk thistle. Due to possible side effects, and adverse interactions with other medications, it is important to consult a doctor before treating multiple sclerosis with herbal products.
Fish oil is believed to be helpful for people with multiple sclerosis. Symptoms that may be relieved with fish oil include muscle ache or pain, memory problems, and nerve inflammation. Echinacea may be helpful in the treatment of inflammation and pain associated with the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Stomach upset, insomnia or sore throat may occur when using echinacea, especially for a long period of time. Sage and milk thistle are popular multiple sclerosis treatment options. Milk thistle is used to purify the blood and helps to improve the health of people with multiple sclerosis. Sage is used to aid digestion and is also believed to prevent spasms of the muscles.
Vitamin D supplementation is believed to be of benefit in treating multiple sclerosis. There seems to be an association between MS relapse rate and vitamin D levels. Perhaps increased sun exposure may be helpful in protecting against the risk of occurrence this condition.
There are a number of alternative and complementary therapies that can help to relieve the symptoms of this disease. These include massage, homeopathy, and acupuncture. It is important to make diet and lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and getting adequate rest in order to minimize the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
