Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) has in recent times been referred to as "the great crippler of young adults." It usually strikes victims in the prime of their life and is one of the most dreaded degenerative diseases of the nervous system. The symptoms of MS are quite variable, ranging from one or two attacks of weakness in a limb or blurred vision, to a relentless, progressive deterioration of speech, movement and other basic functions.

MS affects various parts of the nervous system by destroying myelin, a fatty sheath that insulates nerve fibers rather as a plastic sheath insulates electrical wire. This destruction leaves scars or plaques that short-circuit the electrical signals passing through the nerve fibers. The scarring process is called sclerosis. Figure 33 shows the degeneration of the myelin sheath.

Depending on the location of the nerves affected, patients may suffer localized weakness or stiffness, visual difficulties, diminished bladder or bowel control and other neurological dysfunctions. Attacks may be mild, lasting only days and followed by remission, but most sufferers relapse after months or years. A few experience rapid progression of the disease and are quickly disabled.

The causes of MS are still unclear. However, many theories have been put forward. Some point to environmental and/or genetic factors, and some researchers believe that certain viruses may be involved, or view MS as an autoimmune ailment (in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue). Others are investigating dietary factors or exposure to toxins such as lead, mercury, pesticides and carbon monoxide. Yet another theory considers the role of allergies.

Conventional medicine treats the symptoms of MS but cannot cure it. However, some newer drugs show promise in diminishing the rate of relapse. Diets of all sorts have been widely tested without consistent results. Everything about this disease is difficult to study because symptoms vary so widely, patients often recover spontaneously and one can never be sure whether or not a treatment has been instrumental.

Multiple sclerosis is one of a group of nervous system diseases called neurodegenerative disorders. This group also includes Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease). Although the specific causes of these diseases are unknown, a number of recent studies suggest that an important role is played by oxygen-derived free radical formation and/or lack of adequate antioxidant defenses.

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