When does multiple sclerosis typically begin. What are the common symptoms of MS. How are different types of MS diagnosed. What factors influence MS prevalence across populations. How is multiple sclerosis treated at various stages.

The Age Spectrum of Multiple Sclerosis Onset

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex autoimmune condition that can manifest at various stages of life. While the typical age range for MS onset spans from 20 to 40 years, it’s crucial to understand that the disease can emerge both earlier and later in life. This wide age spectrum highlights the importance of awareness and early detection across all age groups.

Early-Onset MS: Childhood and Adolescence

Early-onset MS, also known as pediatric MS, occurs in children and teenagers. Although less common, this form of MS presents unique challenges:

• Symptoms may mimic those of adult MS
• Higher likelihood of experiencing seizures compared to adult-onset MS
• Potential impact on cognitive development and academic performance
• Necessity for age-appropriate treatment approaches

Prime Age Range: 20s to 40s

The majority of MS diagnoses occur during what many consider the prime years of life. Why does MS often manifest during this period? Possible factors include:

• Peak immune system activity
• Hormonal changes and fluctuations
• Environmental exposures accumulating over time
• Increased likelihood of seeking medical attention for symptoms

Late-Onset MS: After 50

Approximately 5% of MS cases are classified as late-onset, diagnosed after the age of 50. Key characteristics of late-onset MS include:

• Similar symptoms to younger-onset MS
• Potentially faster disease progression
• Challenges in differentiating from other age-related conditions
• Importance of tailored treatment strategies for older patients

Recognizing the Common Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

MS symptoms can vary widely from person to person, but some are more frequently reported than others. Identifying these common symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and management:

1. Numbness and tingling: Often one of the earliest signs of MS
2. Fatigue: Overwhelming tiredness that interferes with daily activities
3. Vision problems: Including blurred vision, double vision, or partial vision loss
4. Muscle spasms, stiffness, or weakness: Affecting mobility and coordination
5. Pain: Can manifest as acute or chronic discomfort in various parts of the body

Is fatigue always a sign of MS? While fatigue is a common symptom, it’s important to note that it can be caused by numerous other conditions. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the underlying cause.

Understanding the Different Types of Multiple Sclerosis

MS is not a one-size-fits-all condition. There are several distinct types, each with its own characteristics and progression patterns:

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)

CIS is characterized by a single episode of MS-like symptoms lasting at least 24 hours. Key points about CIS include:

• May involve single or multiple symptoms
• Not all cases of CIS progress to MS
• MRI scans can help predict the likelihood of developing MS
• Presence of brain lesions increases the risk of MS development

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS)

RRMS is the most common form of MS, affecting about 85% of patients. Its hallmarks include:

• Distinct attacks or relapses of symptoms
• Periods of remission between attacks
• Varying severity and duration of symptoms
• Potential for recovery or lingering deficits after each relapse

Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)

PPMS affects approximately 15% of MS patients and is characterized by:

• Steady worsening of neurological function from onset
• Absence of distinct relapses and remissions
• Typically diagnosed later in life compared to RRMS
• Greater challenges with mobility and daily activities

Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)

SPMS is a later stage of MS that can develop in patients initially diagnosed with RRMS:

• Gradual worsening of symptoms over time
• Fewer or no distinct relapses as the disease progresses
• Increased focus on managing disability and slowing progression
• Transition from RRMS to SPMS can occur over varying timeframes

Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis: Challenges and Techniques

Diagnosing MS can be complex, as there is no single definitive test. Healthcare providers use a combination of methods to reach a diagnosis:

1. Medical history and symptom evaluation
2. Neurological examination
3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to detect brain and spinal cord lesions
4. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis
5. Evoked potential tests to measure electrical activity in response to stimuli

How long does it take to diagnose MS? The time to diagnosis can vary significantly. Some individuals may receive a diagnosis shortly after their first symptoms, while others may go years before a definitive diagnosis is made. This variation is due to the complex nature of MS and the need to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Demographic Factors Influencing Multiple Sclerosis Prevalence

Research has identified several demographic factors that appear to influence the prevalence of MS:

Gender Disparity

MS affects women at a higher rate than men, with a ratio of approximately 3:1. Possible explanations for this gender disparity include:

• Hormonal differences
• Genetic factors on the X chromosome
• Differences in immune system function between sexes
• Environmental exposures that may affect women differently

Geographical Distribution

MS prevalence varies by geographic location, with higher rates observed further from the equator. Factors contributing to this distribution may include:

• Differences in sunlight exposure and vitamin D levels
• Genetic variations in populations
• Environmental factors specific to certain regions
• Differences in diagnostic practices and healthcare access

Ancestry and Ethnicity

While MS can affect individuals of all ancestries, it is more commonly observed in people of northern European descent. This observation raises questions about:

• Genetic susceptibility factors
• Interaction between genes and environment
• Potential biases in research and diagnostic practices
• Socioeconomic factors influencing healthcare access and diagnosis

Treatment Approaches for Multiple Sclerosis

While there is no cure for MS, various treatment options aim to manage symptoms, reduce relapses, and slow disease progression:

Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)

DMTs are the cornerstone of MS treatment, designed to reduce inflammation and protect the nervous system. Key aspects of DMTs include:

• Various administration routes (oral, injectable, infusion)
• Different mechanisms of action targeting specific aspects of MS
• Potential to reduce relapse rates and slow disability progression
• Ongoing research into new and more effective DMTs

Symptomatic Treatments

Managing specific MS symptoms is crucial for improving quality of life. Common symptomatic treatments include:

• Medications for fatigue, pain, and spasticity
• Physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
• Occupational therapy for daily living skills
• Cognitive rehabilitation for memory and thinking issues

Lifestyle Modifications

Complementary to medical treatments, lifestyle changes can significantly impact MS management:

• Regular exercise tailored to individual capabilities
• Stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Balanced diet and proper nutrition
• Adequate rest and sleep hygiene

Advances in Multiple Sclerosis Research and Future Prospects

The field of MS research is dynamic, with ongoing efforts to improve understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of the condition:

Biomarker Discovery

Researchers are working to identify reliable biomarkers for MS, which could revolutionize diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Potential benefits include:

• Earlier and more accurate diagnosis
• Ability to predict disease course and treatment response
• Personalized treatment selection
• More efficient clinical trials for new therapies

Neuroprotection and Remyelination

A major focus of current research is developing therapies that can protect neurons and promote remyelination. This approach aims to:

• Prevent or slow neurodegeneration
• Restore function in damaged neural pathways
• Potentially reverse some MS-related disability
• Complement existing immunomodulatory treatments

Precision Medicine in MS

The future of MS treatment lies in personalized approaches tailored to individual patients. This concept encompasses:

• Genetic profiling to predict disease course and treatment response
• Advanced imaging techniques for more precise monitoring
• Combination therapies targeting multiple aspects of MS pathology
• Integration of lifestyle factors and environmental considerations

How close are we to a cure for MS? While a definitive cure remains elusive, the rapid pace of research and development in MS offers hope for increasingly effective treatments and management strategies. The goal is to transform MS from a potentially debilitating condition into a manageable chronic disease with minimal impact on quality of life.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis: Coping Strategies and Support

Managing life with MS extends beyond medical treatments. Developing effective coping strategies and accessing support systems are crucial for maintaining quality of life:

Emotional and Mental Health

The psychological impact of MS can be significant. Strategies to maintain emotional well-being include:

• Counseling or therapy to address anxiety and depression
• Mindfulness practices for stress reduction
• Joining support groups to connect with others living with MS
• Developing resilience through positive coping mechanisms

Adaptive Technologies and Assistive Devices

As MS progresses, various tools can help maintain independence and function:

• Mobility aids such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs
• Voice recognition software for computer use
• Smart home technologies for easier daily living
• Cooling vests to manage heat sensitivity

Employment and Career Considerations

Many people with MS continue to work, but may need to make adjustments:

• Understanding workplace rights and accommodations
• Exploring flexible work arrangements or telecommuting options
• Career counseling to align work with changing abilities
• Building a supportive work environment through open communication

Can people with MS lead fulfilling lives? Absolutely. With proper management, support, and a positive outlook, many individuals with MS continue to pursue their goals and enjoy rich, meaningful lives. The key is to focus on abilities rather than limitations and to remain adaptable as circumstances change.

In conclusion, multiple sclerosis is a complex condition that can manifest across a wide age spectrum, from childhood to late adulthood. Understanding the various types of MS, recognizing common symptoms, and staying informed about diagnostic techniques and treatment options are crucial for effective management. While MS presents significant challenges, ongoing research, improved treatments, and comprehensive support strategies offer hope for better outcomes and quality of life for those affected by the condition.

MS age of onset: When is it diagnosed?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can start at any age, but it generally appears when people are in their 20s through 40s. Around 5% of people with MS have late-onset MS, which means it starts after the age of 50 years.

Early-onset MS starts in childhood. Late-onset MS, on the other hand, can begin after the age of 50 years. The symptoms of these two conditions generally do not differ much, but they can range in severity.

The exact cause of MS is not clear. However, experts believe it to be an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks its tissues.

This article discusses when initial MS symptoms generally appear, and the typical age at which people receive a diagnosis. It also looks at the symptoms, types of diagnoses, and treatment.

The age of onset of MS for most people ranges from 20–40 years. Some people may receive a diagnosis at the onset. Others, however, may not get a diagnosis until years later. There is no cure for MS, meaning it is a lifelong condition.

The condition may start to develop after 50 years of age, in which case, doctors will refer to it as late-onset MS. Late-onset MS accounts for about 5% of people with MS. The symptoms are similar to those that occur in younger adults, but the condition’s progression is faster.

MS can also start in a person’s childhood and teen years. Doctors call this early-onset MS. Symptoms do not differ significantly from adult-onset MS, but research shows seizures are generally more common.

MS has an unpredictable course involving various symptoms, relapses, and remissions. The majority of people with MS have mild symptoms. However, some individuals experience difficulty with some actions, such as walking, speaking, and writing. Common symptoms of MS include:

• numbness and tingling
• fatigue
• vision problems
• muscle spasms, stiffness, or weakness
• pain

Learn more about the symptoms of MS here.

There are multiple different subtypes of MS that may have different symptoms.

Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)

CIS is a single episode of symptoms that may suggest that a person has MS. Experts believe it occurs due to an inflammatory condition of the brain or spinal cord. CIS symptoms last at least 24 hours. Some people with CIS will go on to develop MS while others may not.

There may only be a single symptom, such as vision loss, or multiple symptoms, such as vision loss alongside tingling or numbness in the legs.

When a person has CIS, a doctor will order an MRI scan to determine whether they have brain lesions similar to MS.

Brain lesions

In general, the presence of MRI-detected brain lesions means that a person may have a 60–80% risk of developing MS within several years. However, the absence of lesions suggests a 20–30% likelihood of developing MS within the same time frame.

Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)

About 85% of people with MS have the subtype called RRMS. It involves episodes of attacks that develop over a few days and last at least 24 hours but not more than 1–2 months. Between attacks, symptoms may either decrease or disappear.

Most individuals who have RRMS receive a diagnosis when they are in their 20s or 30s. Aside from numbness, tiredness, and stiffness, the most common RRMS symptoms a person may experience include problems with their vision, thinking, bowel, and bladder.

Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS)

About 15% of people with MS have a subtype called PPMS. Instead of relapses and remissions, individuals with PPMS experience a disability that progresses from the onset. However, PPMS can involve brief periods when the condition is stable.

People typically experience the onset of PPMS 10 years later than people with RRMS. Individuals with this subtype often experience more challenges with walking and remaining in the workforce. They may also need help performing everyday activities.

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS)

People who live with SPMS experience a gradual worsening of symptoms as time goes by. Relapses usually disappear as the condition progresses. Individuals with SPMS experience nerve loss or damage that becomes steadily more severe.

Before using disease-modifying therapies, about half of those with an RRMS diagnosis might transition to SPMS within 10 years, while almost all would transition to SPMS within 25 years.

However, the effect of disease-modifying treatments on altering or delaying the SPMS transition is unclear.

Research shows that MS affects many people, but there are certain populations in which MS is more common. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS):

• MS is three times more common in females than in males.
• The condition is more common in states that are further away from the equator.
• Although MS occurs in people of most ancestries, it is more common in people of northern European descent.

In terms of specific risk factors for MS, the NMSS lists several, including:

• vitamin D deficiency
• obesity in childhood and adolescence
• smoking
• bacteria and viruses

Diagnosing MS can be difficult and time consuming because there is no single test that can identify it. In addition, MS symptoms fluctuate and vary, making an accurate diagnosis challenging to obtain.

There is, however, an accepted diagnosis of MS called the 2017 McDonald Criteria. To diagnose the condition, doctors will look at a person’s:

• medical history
• physical examination findings
• blood tests
• imaging tests, such as an MRI scan
• visual tests
• spinal fluid analysis

Doctors assess the progression of MS (dissemination in time) and the parts of the body it affects (dissemination in space).

For dissemination in space, doctors will use imaging tests to look for two or more MS lesions, or one lesion and one clinical attack affecting the central nervous system.

For dissemination in time, they will look for:

• at least two MS attacks that occurred at different times
• MS lesions
• new lesion development between MRI scans
• the presence of oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid

Learn more about the tests for an MS diagnosis here.

Many individuals with MS may be able to manage their condition without therapy.

However, a person may want to consider options that can help manage their MS and its symptoms to maintain their quality of life. These options may include:

• rehabilitation
• complimentary or alternative medication
• relapse management

Several medications can help a person manage their MS.

Disease-modifying therapies

If a doctor decides that medication is necessary, they may prescribe disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). These drugs delay the progression of MS, reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, and limit new activity.

These DMTs may be injectable, oral, or intravenous infusions.

Injectable medications include:

• Avonex (interferon beta-1a)
• Betaseron (interferon beta-1b)
• Extavia (interferon beta-1b)
• Glatiramer Acetate Injection (glatiramer acetate)
• Glatopa (glatiramer acetate)
• Plegridy (peginterferon beta-1a)
• Rebif (interferon beta-1a)
• Kesimpta (ofatumumab)
• Copaxone (glatiramer acetate)

Oral medications include:

• Aubagio (teriflunomide)
• Gilenya (fingolimod)
• Ponvory (ponesimod)
• Zeposia (ozanimod)
• Bafiertam (monomethyl fumarate)
• Dimethyl Fumarate (dimethyl fumarate)
• Mavenclad (cladribine)
• Mayzent (siponimod)
• Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate)
• Vumerity (diroximel fumarate)

Infusion medications include:

• Lemtrada (alemtuzumab)
• Novantrone (mitoxantrone)
• Ocrevus (ocrelizumab)
• Tysabri (natalizumab)

Not all MS medications will be suitable for all patients. Doctors will work with a patient to create a tailored treatment plan specific to their condition. Some people with MS may require a doctor to administer high-efficacy drugs throughout the whole therapy course, while a gradual increase in drug strength may work better for others.

Learn more about the full range of DMTs and other MS treatment options here.

Symptom management

Doctors may prescribe other prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications to help treat specific MS symptoms.

• Corticosteroids: These help reduce inflammation and may reduce flares.
• Pain relievers: Muscle contractions and nerve damage can cause various pains. Prescription and OTC pain relievers can reduce general pain and improve a person’s daily quality of life.
• Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants can treat and prevent muscle spasms that can occur in people with MS.
• Antidepressants: People with MS may experience adverse mental health symptoms. Antidepressants and antianxiety medications, among others, can help manage these symptoms.

Generally, the onset of multiple sclerosis is between 20–40 years of age, but the condition may appear at an earlier or later age.

Most individuals have a subtype of MS that alternates between relapses and remissions, while a minority have a subtype that involves regular progression from the onset.

A person may be able to reduce their risk of developing MS by getting regular exposure to sunlight, maintaining a moderate weight, and stopping smoking. After diagnosis, there are various treatment options.

What Is the Age of Onset for Multiple Sclerosis?

• Typically people are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) between the ages of 20 and 40, but late-onset MS (LOMS) affects people age 50 and older.
• LOMS usually progresses faster than MS diagnosed at a younger age.
• There are several steps doctors take before making a diagnosis and determining the best course of treatment.
• Treatments, including rehabilitation and medications, can help manage symptoms of MS.

Typically, people are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) between the ages of 20 and 40, but late-onset MS (LOMS) begins to affect people ages 50 and older. The disease’s progression is usually faster in LOMS.

If you have MS, you’re among the more than 2.3 million people worldwide who share this diagnosis. While there isn’t a cure for the condition, treatments that slow MS’s progression and help to reduce symptoms are available.

MS is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS). With MS, the brain, optic nerves or spinal cord — all part of the CNS — become inflamed. When this happens, the nerves’ protective covering, known as myelin, suffers damage.

This damage shows up in MS symptoms ranging from difficulty concentrating to muscle spasms. There are a number of other symptoms, some more common than others.

There are four disease courses, or stages, of MS development:

• Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). This occurs when symptoms first appear and last for at least 24 hours. Symptoms result from myelin damage in the CNS, but not everyone who gets CIS develops MS.
• Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). This stage is characterized by attacks, also called relapses, of new or increasing neurological symptoms. Relapses are followed by partial or complete remissions, or recovery.
• Secondary progressive MS (SPMS). This begins as RRMS but gradually worsens over time. Not all cases of RRMS will transition into SPMS.
• Primary progressive MS (PPMS). This stage is defined by worsening neurologic functions from the time symptoms first appear. LOMS often starts at this most serious stage.

Adult-onset MS (AOMS) is usually diagnosed in adults ages 20 to 40, but MS can also develop in older adults, teens, and, in rare cases, children.

Children with pediatric MS usually have CIS or RRMS. Children with MS tend to recover more quickly than adults who are diagnosed with MS, since full remission or recovery is common in the RRMS stage.

Pediatric MS is hard to diagnose because it’s similar to acute demyelinating encephalomyelitis (ADEM). It can, however, lead to serious disability at an early age.

LOMS, which is when symptoms first appear in adults over the age of 50, accounts for 10 percent of all MS diagnoses.

A late diagnosis sometimes happens when people don’t seek medical attention for mild sensory symptoms.

There are a number of symptoms associated with MS. Symptoms are unpredictable and may change over time. In addition, not everyone who is diagnosed with MS will experience the same symptoms.

Some common symptoms include:

• weakness
• vision changes
• fatigue
• loss of balance
• bladder dysfunction
• difficulty understanding or remembering new information

Other symptoms include:

• depression
• pain or itching
• sexual issues
• emotional changes

Typical LOMS symptoms are related to motor dysfunction and visual problems.

There’s no one test used to diagnose MS. Rather, doctors will perform many tests and exams to first rule out other medical conditions.

The following are typical strategies used by healthcare professionals:

• Neurological exam. This exam evaluates things like mental status, reflexes, coordination, and sensory function.
• Detailed clinical history. This process identifies previous symptoms, other diagnoses, and any information relevant to your health.
• Blood tests. These tests can help rule out other medical conditions that may share similar symptoms to MS.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This scan may detect MS lesions in the brain and spinal cord.
• Oligoclonal band screening. This screening checks cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for oligoclonal-bands (OCBs) — proteins that can indicate the presence of CNS inflammation.
• Evoked potential testing. This testing measures how quickly the brain responds to sight, sound, and touch stimulation.

To assess MS progression, doctors sometimes use the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). This scale ranges from 0 (normal neurological exam with no disability in any functional system) to 10 (death from MS). A 2016 study in PLOS One found that people with LOMS reached a 6.0 on the EDSS faster than those with AOMS.

This study looked at people over age 40 in its analysis of people with LOMS.

People who are diagnosed with MS as young adults are most likely to be diagnosed with RRMS. This is the most common disease course with around 85 percent of people with MS determined to have this type.

There are treatments available to help you manage symptoms of MS.

Rehabilitation can help to improve your energy, memory, and mobility. Types of rehabilitation your doctor may recommend include:

• physical rehab to work on improving balance, strength, and range of motion
• cognitive rehab to help with communication, organization, and attention
• occupational rehab for self-management and self-care, including doing chores and enjoying hobbies

Medications, called disease modifying therapies (DMTs), may also be used to treat MS. DMTs work to reduce the amount of relapses and slow the course of the condition.

Everyday symptoms, such as fatigue or bladder and bowel issues, are typically managed with other types of medications — not DMTs. A healthy lifestyle can also address MS symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

Your doctor will create a treatment plan based on how far your MS has progressed and how old you are at its onset.

MS is most often diagnosed between 20 and 40 years of age, but LOMS is usually diagnosed after the age of 50. Disease progression may be faster in LOMS, since it’s often diagnosed as PPMS, the most serious stage of the disease.

Your doctor’s goal is to reach an accurate diagnosis after tests including a neurological exam, clinical history, MRI, OCB screening, and evoked potential testing. After the diagnosis, you and your doctor can decide on a treatment plan that’s right for you.

May 27 is International Multiple Sclerosis Day

May 27 is International Multiple Sclerosis Day

05/27/2022

May 27 is International Multiple Sclerosis Day.

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that can affect several areas of the brain and spinal cord at once. In the world, this disease affects about 2-2.5 million people. The total number of patients with this disease in our country is about 200 thousand. And most of them are young people between the ages of 20 and 40.

Multiple sclerosis, according to WHO, ranks third among diseases of the central nervous system (after vascular diseases and epilepsy). Today, the head of the Center for Consultative Assistance to Patients with Multiple Sclerosis of the CDC, neurologist Olga Anatolyevna Soldatova talks about a complex disease:

– How common is this disease today? How many patients with multiple sclerosis in our region?

О.А.: More than 100 thousand people suffer from multiple sclerosis in Russia, more than 1000 patients are registered in the Omsk region. The average prevalence of the disease is about 60 people per 100,000 population.

The incidence of multiple sclerosis and autoimmune disease is generally increasing worldwide. This is due, among other things, to the development of diagnostic capabilities at the earliest stages. Multiple sclerosis is one of the most common causes of persistent disability in young people.

– Is multiple sclerosis incurable?

OA: We don’t use the term “incurable disease”, it’s a very pessimistic description. Multiple sclerosis is included in the group of chronic progressive diseases. But it is important to emphasize that today this disease is curable, that is, it is treatable, it can be effectively controlled, which allows patients to maintain an active life and work capacity for a long time. In this disease, early diagnosis is important, because we have the opportunity to minimize the progression of the disease and stabilize the patient at the stage at which we met with him, established the diagnosis and began treatment.

– Is multiple sclerosis considered a disease of the young? At what age does it most often appear?

О.А.: According to statistics, the onset of the disease occurs at the age of 16-35 years, rarely in childhood and over 50 years of age. On average, the disease most often manifests itself in 25-30 years. Therefore, multiple sclerosis is truly a “disease of the young.”

– What are the symptoms of this disease?

OA: The difficulty is that multiple sclerosis has no specific symptoms. Most often, visual disturbances occur (especially in one eye) at the onset of the disease; unsteadiness, weakness, and numbness may also appear. In the literature there are various popular names for multiple sclerosis – “monkey of all diseases”, “a disease with a thousand faces”. Therefore, the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is a very complex and lengthy process; the diagnosis, like a puzzle, consists of many components. For diagnostics, all modern research methods are used, including MRI, laboratory and functional diagnostics.

– When you come to see you for the first time, does it mean that you continue to see patients for the rest of your life?

О.А.: Yes, as a rule, I see patients constantly from the moment they apply, in the process I get to know their families, I know the life situation of almost every of my regular patients. I also maintain a separate register of pregnant women – more than 50 young women with multiple sclerosis have already been able to endure and give birth to children.

– How difficult is it for people to accept their diagnosis?

О.А.: Of course, the psychological aspect is very important. It is often difficult for young people to accept their illness on a psychological level. They read information in open sources and until the last moment they are not ready to apply it to themselves. We try to convince of the importance of starting treatment at the initial stage in order to preserve the quality of life to which he is accustomed for as long as possible. However, we are not omnipotent, the type of course of the disease, which is genetically determined, is of great importance.

– If the disease cannot be completely cured, what can be considered a good result?

О.А.: We start treatment from the moment when the diagnosis is made, our main task is to stay at this level, if we manage to do this for many years, then this is a good result. In general, a stable state without clinical manifestations of the pathological process is the main goal we are striving for. At the end of the conversation, I would like to wish the patients health and optimism, faith in themselves and in us!

Interesting facts:

*** The older generation knows about multiple sclerosis from the life of the writer Nikolai Ostrovsky, the author of the famous work “How the Steel Was Tempered” – he was ill and died at a young age. Previously, indeed, this diagnosis was a threat of disability at a young age. Smart, talented, educated youth completely fell out of life, so multiple sclerosis is also called “the disease of the young and talented.” But it is worth saying that over the past decades there has been a very serious progress in the treatment of the disease, effective drugs have been developed and put into practice – the World Health Organization has recognized this as one of the highest achievements of modern medicine.

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האגודה הישראלית לטרשת נפוצה – The Israel MS Society

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