Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system, which occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective covering of nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This results in an interruption in the transmission of nerve impulses and a wide range of neurological symptoms.

Who gets sick and how common is the disease?

It mostly affects young adults, from
20 to 40 years old, and women even 2-3 times more often than men. In the world of MS
about 2.8 million people are sick, while in Serbia it is estimated that there are about 10,000 - 12,000 patients.

Risk factors :

The disease is not contagious, nor directly hereditary, but there is a genetic predisposition - if someone in the family has MS, the risk is somewhat higher.

In addition to genetics, environmental factors, low levels of vitamin D, smoking, and certain viral infections, especially Epstein-Barr virus infection, are also taken into account.

What are the first symptoms - which should not be ignored!

Multiple sclerosis is often called the "disease with a thousand faces" because the symptoms are different for each patient, depending on which part of the central nervous system is affected.

The most common early symptoms:

• Tingling and weakness in the arms or legs

• Vision problems (blurred or double vision)

• Loss of balance, dizziness

• Problems with urination

• Difficulty concentrating

• Chronic fatigue

Symptoms can come on suddenly and last for days or weeks and then subside, making early diagnosis difficult. Without timely and adequate treatment, permanent damage can occur over time.

That is why it is important that people who notice unusual neurological disturbances seek the advice of a neurologist.

Treatment

The good news : modern treatment represents a new era in the fight against MS

The natural course of the disease, without treatment, inevitably leads to disability.

However, in the last 20 years, tremendous progress has been made in the treatment of MS. Today, numerous immune system modulators and biological suppressive drugs are available that slow down the progression of the disease , reduce the number and severity of relapses, and improve the quality of life.

The treatment is adapted to each patient, depending on the form and severity of the disease, the presence of relapses, findings on magnetic resonance and other factors.

In addition to pharmacological therapy, physical activity, occupational therapy, psychological support and a healthy diet also play an important role.

A message of hope - multiple sclerosis is no longer seen as a specter

Multiple sclerosis remains a serious disease, but today it is diagnosed earlier, treated more effectively and monitored more accurately than ever before. Many patients, with adequate timely therapy and support, lead an active, able-bodied, functional and fulfilling life for decades.

That is why it is important to talk about this disease - without stigma and fear, but with knowledge, understanding and optimism.

KNOWLEDGE SAVES LIVES!