Steinmetz Integrative & Functional Medicine Center
1225 Martha Custis Drive
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Alexandria, VA 22302
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More Complementary & Integrative Healthcare Articles
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Complementary Therapies May Help Reduce Attacks
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the more challenging autoimmune diseases to treat because it's course varies and it's symptoms are unpredictable. Some people with MS experience mild and intermittent loss of nerve function while others decline fairly quickly to wheelchair dependence, upper-body paralysis and vision problems.
MS manifests in one of two forms; the relapsing/remitting form is characterized by periodic attacks of varying frequency and severity that fade into remission with most or all of the lost function restored. In progressive MS, the neurological damage fails to fade away, with each episode causing the person to become increasingly disabled.
Doctors are uncertain of the exact cause of MS, but evidence suggests it is connected to viral inflammation of the myelin sheath. The damage comes when the immune system misdirects its attack and damages the myelin, protecting the spinal cord and brain. The antibodies open up holes scleroses in the sheath, interrupting nerve signal transmission and leading to loss of sensation, paralysis, and other common effects of MS.
Risk factors
Some studies suggest that certain experiences can increase a person's risk of developing MS, or exacerbating it for those who are already experiencing symptoms. Exposure to organic solvents is one possible risk. There is also a growing body of evidence that the Epstein-Barr virus (the cause of mononucleosis) could be connected to a later onset of MS. Treating mononucleosis with prednisone may increase the risk. There also may be a genetic predisposition toward MS.
Treatment options
Doctors have an extensive range of treatment options for MS patients. While there is no cure for the disease, the current treatments aim to reduce the effects, prevent disability, and restore lost mobility.
There are several drugs, as well as lifestyle changes that MS sufferers can make to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Additionally, there are many complementary therapies that can help an MS patient undergoing conventional medical treatment. Specifically
Fish oil supplements A study on 23 patients showed a significant reduction in relapse rate during an eight month period.
Ginkgo Has significant beneficial effects on memory, attention and functioning.
Acupuncture Particularly helpful for bladder problems.
Exercise Yoga helps to maintain muscle flexibility.
L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine Can reduce fatigue.
Vitamin D has also proven to positively benefit MS patients. Low vitamin D levels have been linked with multiple sclerosis. So, it is important to get your blood levels checked, and make sure you are taking the right kind and amount of vitamin D.
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