Does Early Treatment Matter in Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which can affect the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. It is usually thought of as a single disease, but its course and symptoms vary from person to person.

MS is a leading cause of non-traumatic disability in young people and is commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. It is twice as more common in women than men. The exact cause of MS is unknown.

It often strikes people in their prime and deprives them from performing their routine tasks and pursuing their aspirations.

MS severely impacts the quality of life of patients, and they may experience various symptoms such as blurred vision, temporary loss of eyesight, feeling of tingling and numbness, muscle weakness, pain and imbalance, problems with movement and coordination, inability to focus and think, difficulty in holding urine, sexual dysfunction and frequent fatigue. Not all these symptoms are present in every patient but may vary from person to person. If left untreated, the disease progresses, leading to permanent disability.

There is no cure for MS, however recent advancements have resulted in the development of new treatments that may substantially reduce disease activity and slow down progression.

It is very important that MS is diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Early treatment can slow disease progression, and may help patients lead a normal life during their productive years.

A new scientific consensus has been reached that changes the way MS should be treated. The evidence now tells us that, rather than waiting to see whether more relapses occur, disease modifying therapies (DMTs) should be offered as close as possible to diagnosis.

It is recommended that if you experience any of the above highlighted symptoms please do not take it lightly and consult a neuro physician (neurologist) at your earliest to rule out the possibility of you suffering from MS. With early treatment, maintaining quality of life despite having MS is possible.

For more information, please visit www.letsbeatms.pk.