Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system. This demyelinating condition affects the brain and spinal cord, wherein the nerves are covered by a fat-containing layer called myelin sheath, which serves to transmit the electrical impulses of the nervous system. In people affected with multiple sclerosis, the immune system attacks and damages the myelin sheath, resulting in the disruption in the transmission of electrical impulses. As a result of this damage, the communication between neurons is affected and people develop sensory and cognitive impairments.

Multiple sclerosis is a permanent disease that severely affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, and while no treatment can cure the disease, it is possible to enable speedy recovery from attacks and slow the progression of the disease.

1. Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis
There are no specific diagnostic tests for multiple sclerosis. The doctors may first rule out other medical conditions that show similar symptoms and a thorough evaluation of the medical history and examination of the signs and symptoms is the first step of diagnosis.

Other diagnostic tests that follow the preliminary physical examination are:

• Blood test

This test is done to rule out other diseases that show symptoms similar to multiple sclerosis. Tests are conducted to check for specific biomarkers that are associated with the condition.

• Lumbar puncture or spinal tap

A small sample fluid is removed from the spinal canal for evaluation. This sample reveals the abnormalities in the antibodies linked to multiple sclerosis.

• Evoked potential tests

These tests record the electrical signals produced by the nervous system. The application of short electrical pulses and the time taken for the transmission is measured through these tests.

• MRI

This imaging test reveals the lesions present in the brain and spinal cord.

2. Treatment of multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis treatment aims at retarding the progression of the disease and accelerating the recovery after an attack. For those with very mild symptoms, this may not even be required.

Multiple sclerosis treatment includes administering corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation in the nerves. However, these medicines produce side effects like mood swings, fluid retention, and insomnia.

Plasma exchange is another multiple sclerosis treatment that involves the separation of plasma from the other blood cells. The removed plasma is mixed with albumin and put back into the body. Various other treatment methods for multiple sclerosis are as given below.

• Beta interferons are injected under the skin or into the muscle to reduce the frequency and severity of relapses.
• Oral treatments that focus on reducing the relapse rate and slow the progression of the disease.
• Infusion treatments are given to treat relapse remitting and primary progressive forms of multiple sclerosis.
• Muscle relaxants are given to manage spasms in muscles. Medicines are also given to reduce fatigue, depression, and pain.
• Apart from medication, multiple sclerosis treatment includes physical therapy to maintain muscle tone.
• Changes in lifestyle like regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and a positive outlook on life help in combating multiple sclerosis.