Multiple Sclerosis Research Paper

Words: 500
Pages: 2

Multiple Sclerosis, or MS for short, is a serious disorder in which pieces of myelin and their surrounding nerve fibers are damaged in the eyes, brain, and spinal cord (Beers, 2003). The term multiple sclerosis literally means “many scars” and refers to the numerous scars caused by the demyelination of the nerves (Beers, 2003). Myelin behaves in the same way as insulation for electrical wiring (Mayo Clinic, 2014). Damage to this fatty, protective layer ultimately results in irreversible destruction to the line of communication between the brain and the other parts of the body. Messages can no longer be properly sent or understood.
The cause for multiple sclerosis is currently unknown. Many experts believe that it is an autoimmune disease which causes the body’s immune system to go haywire and attack its own healthy tissues (Mayo Clinic, 2014). No one knows for sure why certain people contract MS, however doctors
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Usually the symptoms come and go, but progressively get worse. Early signs of the disorder have to do with lack of coordination. Many patients struggle to see clearly and keep their balance. Additionally, they may feel odd tingling sensations in their limbs or feel abnormally weak (Web MD. 2015). As this awful condition continues on, symptoms begin to become much more serious and debilitating. Most patients’ tingling sensations worsen and morph into stabbing pains. Walking progressively becomes impossible due to these pains as well as balancing problems and fatigue. Muscle spasms affect a large majority of those living with MS. It also causes speech problems such as slurs and long, awkward pauses between words (Web MD, 2015). All of these symptoms make normal life very difficult for patients. Some are forced to spend their days in protective wheel chairs. Remission does occur for a time, but the problem never truly goes