Health Tips and Healthy Living

11 Important Multiple Sclerosis Questions Answered

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1. What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease, that attacks the central nervous system, and can often be disabling to the victim.

2. How bad will my multiple sclerosis get and how fast will it progress?

The speed of progression, symptoms and the severity of the disease cannot be predicted since the disease is so variable from one person to the next.

3. How many people suffer from in the United States?

Approximately 350 Million people, in the United States alone, have multiple sclerosis.

4. How frequently is multiple diagnosed in the United States?

On average, about 200 new cases of multiple sclerosis are diagnosed, each week, in the United States.

5. What are some of the ?

Symptoms are widely variable but include things like , impaired vision, slurred speech, bad balance and coordination, bladder and bowel problems, trouble walking, muscle weakness and coordination issues, cognitive difficulties, depression, tremors and, in some cases, even partial or complete paralysis.

6. Is multiple sclerosis fatal? ?

Multiple sclerosis is NOT a fatal disease. The average life expectancy for a person with MS is approximately 90% - 95% of the normal life span.

7. Will I need a wheelchair because of my multiple sclerosis? What about a cane or a walker?

Roughly 75% of people with multiple sclerosis never require a wheelchair. Approximately one third of the people with MS will eventually require some sort of walking aid though, such as a cane or a walker.

8. Can a family member get multiple sclerosis from me? ?

MS is not contagious and you cannot get MS from being around a person who has MS.

9. If I have multiple sclerosis, will my children also have multiple sclerosis? Is multiple sclerosis inherited?

MS is not inherited but if a family member has multiple sclerosis, your odds of getting it do increase.

10. How do you cure multiple sclerosis? ?

There is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis. Much research and study is underway to attempt to isolate a cure but that could still be many years off.

11. What drugs are used to treat multiple sclerosis?

The drugs that are aproved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, as of this writing, are , Betaseron, , , and . These drugs are all aimed at slowing the progression of the disease. They do not treat the symptoms of the disease. Symptoms are treated with various drugs as needed to treat specific problems.

What Causes Multiple Sclerosis?

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? I hate to say it but this is going to be a very short post because the answer isn’t a very good one.

So, ? It’s not actually known, yet, . Much research has been done, and is continuing to be done, in an attempt to answer this question.

What is known is that most researchers are convinced that multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease. White blood cells in the body are intended to fight infection or disease. In people with multiple sclerosis, those same cells, that are supposed to protect the body from disease, actually attack the body’s own cells. This causes irritation and inflammation in the central nervous system and this damages the protective coating of the nerves and may eventually damage the nerve as well.

There are numerous different being researched. These include Vitamin D deficiency, viral infections, climate, genetic factors and others. Unfortunately, none of these have been confirmed yet. There has also been no cure discovered for multiple sclerosis either.

Researchers are actively working to solve the riddle of and, hopefully, in the near future they will be able to answer that question.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

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When people find out that I have multiple sclerosis, many people have the question, “?”.

Multiple sclerosis is widely believed to be an autoimmune disease, and it impacts the central nervous system, which includes the spinal cord, optic nerves and brain. It is, according to the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America, “the most common neurological disorder diagnosed in young adults”. This disease damages the central nervous system by attacking the insulating material, called , that protects the nerves. When this material is damaged, the white matter surrounding the nerve fibers becomes hardened and those hardened areas are called plaques. These plaques are basically scar tissue that forms and they can slow the nerve impulses to the body. This, in turn, leads to nervous system incoordination.

Let me help you visualize this. The brain is like a very powerful computer that controls your entire body. To communicate with the body, the brain uses the equivalent of wires, which are the nerves in your body. When you want to move your toes, a message is sent from the brain to the toes telling them to move. This signal travels from the brain, down the nerves, in the spinal cord, and signals the toes to move. This is normally a very efficient communication system because the nerves are very well insulated. This insulation is the myelin, which is a fat and protein mix. This myelin is a coating on the nerves, much like the rubber insulation on a wire, and allows the electrical impulses to flow effectively.

For some reason, the myelin is attacked in people with MS and leaves hardened areas that look scarred. Another name for that scar is a sclerosis, thus the name , which literally means multiple scars.

The symptoms of are those that would indicate a damaged or irritated central nervous system. The symptoms are very similar to other neurological disorders such as stroke, trauma, tumors and migraines. Since the symptoms are so similar to these other disorders, it requires a certain level of expertise and knowledge to properly identify multiple sclerosis. For those who are knowledgeable, though, it is not really all that difficult to diagnose.

Some of the symptoms of MS are things like numbness, blurred vision, double vision, tingling, weakness, fatigue, clumsiness, pain, cognitive issues, dizziness, stiffness and muscle spasms. These symptoms come and go and are not predictable or consistent. One day, a person may have great difficulty walking and a few days later be walking fine again.

Sometimes these attacks, known as , leave permanent damage. Sometimes the condition improves leaving only some damage and sometimes there are no obvious signs of damage at all, and a complete recovery is seen. This unpredictability is one of the worst parts of the disease for the victim.

There is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis. There are, however, several medications approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. These treatments include the drugs , , , , and . Some of these are taken by self-injection and others are administered intravenously at the doctor’s office. There are also clinical trials underway in hopes of developing an approved drug in pill form to be taken orally but there is no definitive proof, yet, of the effectiveness.

So, ? It’s a neurological disorder that can be severely disabling. What is multiple sclerosis? It’s an autoimmune disease that effects the central nervous system. What is multiple sclerosis? It’s a degenerative disease that affects over 350,000 people in the United States alone.

Multiple sclerosis is all these things. It’s still being researched, there is no cure and the cause is unknown. It is still, mostly, a medical mystery with no cure.

Those of us who suffer from multiple sclerosis have great hope that a cure will come soon. Continuing research is needed to achieve this goal and both donations and increased government funding into research can help accomplish this.

Serono Announces Initiation of the Reflex Trial to Evaluate New Formulation of Rebif(R) in Patients at Risk of Developing Multiple Sclerosis

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First Trial Assessing Therapeutic Benefit of Two Different Dosage Regimens
of in People With First Clinical Symptoms

GENEVA, Switzerland, December 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Serono (virt-x: SEO and NYSE: SRA) announced today the initiation of a Phase III clinical trial to evaluate the effect of two dosage regimens of the new formulation of Rebif(R) (interferon beta-1a 44 mcg, three times a week or once a week) on the time to conversion to multiple sclerosis (MS) in people with first clinical symptoms suggestive of the disease. The trial, called the REFLEX study (REbif FLEXible dosing in early MS), will involve 480 patients considered at risk of developing MS because of a recently experienced isolated and of typical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scans. “It has been demonstrated that early treatment with interferon-beta can reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Optimizing the impact of such treatment on development of irreversible neurological damage and ascertainment of long term outcomes is still subject of active experimental and clinical research”, said Professor Ludwig Kappos, from the Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel, Switzerland, and a member of the Steering Committee of the REFLEX study. “The REFLEX study will determine the respective therapeutic benefit of two different dosage regimens of the new formulation of Rebif(R) for people at risk of developing multiple sclerosis.”

The REFLEX study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial. Study participants will receive either the new formulation of Rebif(R) 44 mcg three times a week (160 patients), or the new formulation of Rebif(R) 44 mcg once a week (160 patients), or placebo (160 patients) as a subcutaneous injection for a period of 24 months, unless they suffer from a second attack leading to a diagnosis of . In this case, patients will be offered open label treatment with the new formulation of Rebif(R) 44 mcg three times a week.
The primary endpoint of the study is time to conversion to MS, according to the McDonald criteria. Other endpoints will include assessments of , clinical relapses and disability progression. The REFLEX study will also evaluate the effect of the new formulation of Rebif(R) on cognitive function as measured by the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT)[1]. can occur early in MS and impact memory, ability to process information and learning. A sub-study will assess retinal nerve fiber thickness (a marker of axonal loss) by means of optical coherence tomography (OCT). This sub-study will be conducted in selected centers, equipped with this leading edge technology. In addition, the REFLEX study will aim at identifying genetic/genomic profiles associated with disease and treatment outcomes.

The new formulation of Rebif(R) has been developed by an innovative approach, using state-of-the-art technologies. It is under regulatory review by the European Medicines Agency, the US Food and Drug Administration and other healthcare authorities, and is not currently approved.

About Rebif(R)

Rebif(R) () is a disease-modifying drug used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is similar to the interferon beta protein produced by the human body. Interferon helps modulate the body’s immune system, fight disease and reduce inflammation. Rebif(R), which was approved in Europe in 1998 and in the US in 2002, is registered in more than 80 countries worldwide. In the United States, Rebif(R) is co-marketed by Serono, Inc. and Pfizer Inc. Rebif(R) has been proven to delay the progression of disability, reduce the frequency of relapses and reduce MRI lesion activity and area[2]. Rebif(R) is not approved for treatment of chronic progressive MS. Rebif(R) is available in a 22 mcg and 44 mcg ready-to-use pre-filled syringe and a titration pack, and can be stored at room temperature for up to 30 days if a refrigerator is not available. Most commonly reported side effects are injection site disorders, flu-like symptoms, elevation of liver enzymes and blood cell abnormalities. Patients, especially those with depression, seizure disorders, or liver problems, should discuss treatment with Rebif(R) with their doctors.

Power-Plate Exercise for MS

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Power-Plate has long been recognised for its medical benefits. These machines are installed in certain hospitals throughout Europe and the USA to help recovery from an accident or illness. For example, individuals with Spina Bifida or people who have had strokes who would not be able to voluntarily exercise can use the machine to strengthen their muscles.

Boasts a track record for helping those who normally wouldn’t exercise much — people with various mobility impairments, people with , Arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke survivors, Asthmatics and others — get some of the benefits of exercise. It’s also touted for people with Osteoporosis or as a prevention for it.

Based on the theory that by disrupting stability in a minor way, both large and small muscles get a workout so overall muscle strength and performance is improved. Increase flexibility and range of motion, reduce pain especially in the lower back, fat burning, improve blood circulation and reduce joint and ligament pain. Further Whole-body vibration increases bone mass and growth hormone levels according to studies posted on the company’s website.

On a basic, neural level, all the muscles –small and big- work to counter the vibration. It’s reducing swelling and overall water retention. It exercises muscles to maximum capacity without putting any strain on joints, making it ideal for those with specific medical conditions.

“Like a normal, vigorous workout, it leaves persons both energized and physically tired. People sleep better. Have less pain and feel more relaxed’. Some of these people can even stand for a very short time and some of them hope that it will help achieve their big goal” says Ms. Nelke van Aspert, Managing Director,
Power-Plate Middle East.

How it works?
“By placing feet on the platform, immediately, a vibration runs through your feet, up into your legs, your hips, clear to the top of your head. After exercising you will feel stronger than before. Power Plate produces a 3 Dimensional vibration through which energy is transferred to the whole body. This mechanical stimulus produces a stretch reflex which can vary from 30 to 50 times per second, resulting in muscles constantly contracting very vigorously. Exercise makes the body fatigue, rest allows it to recover. By repeating this process, the body adjusts to the effort, resulting in an increase in physical performance.”

The theory behind whole-body vibration came out of Russia in the 1970s. Trainers chasing Olympic gold said it worked, which led to research by the Russian space program. Now NASA is reportedly doing its own research with the Power-Plate because space travel and its zero-gravity conditions seems to degenerate bone and muscle mass, which both rely on weight-bearing activity to maintain them.

Further Power-Plate claims that “100 percent of the muscle fibers contract,” leading to a host of benefits. It’s currently extremely popular in Europe, USA, Australia and Japan and is quick picking up steam in the Middle East, India and Africa.

Multiple Sclerosis Advocate Creates Jewelry to Benefit MS

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Small Business Owner From Katy, Texas, Finds Success Creating one of a Kind Jewelry

Stephanie White of Katy, Texas, never thought that what began as a diversion to alleviate stress six years ago could possibly turn into the successful business that it has become. White says of her business, “It began as a hobby, now it’s a blessing that’s grown tremendously.” Her jewelry website is currently one of the top ranking jewelry sites on the search engines.

Katy, TX (PRWEB) December 20, 2006 — Stephanie White of Katy, Texas, never thought that what began as a diversion to alleviate stress six years ago could possibly turn into the successful business that it has become. White says of her business, “It began as a hobby, now it’s a blessing that’s grown tremendously.” Her jewelry website (www.swcreations.net) is currently one of the top ranking jewelry sites on the search engines.

Part of her success may be attributed to the strong emphasis that she places on customer relations. Her desire is to create something unique that everyone can use or give as a gift. White’s creations are not limited to women’s jewelry. She also makes attractive men’s jewelry, and . She will even custom create items depending on bead availability. She is prompt to ship, and will gift wrap upon request — making the customer’s purchase as easy as possible.

White is also an . She creates an assortment of jewelry pieces that benefit both causes. Individuals can treat themselves or someone they love to something special and support a good cause at the same time.

Perhaps another quality that sets her aside from many other companies in this day and age is that all of her jewelry is hand-crafted and one of a kind. “It’s the kind of gift that many people want to receive because it’s nice to own something unique — something that not everyone has,” says White.

White’s jewelry designs are high-quality American-made products that are not mass produced. She uses well-known beads that are imported from all over the world, including Swarovski Austrian crystal, handcrafted Lampwork beads and fresh water pearls. She uses both Bali .925 silver and sterling silver for all of her creations. There is guaranteed to be something for everyone at very affordable prices.

For more on SWCreations Jewelry, please visit her site at www.swcreations.net.

Stephanie White, jewelry designer and owner of SWCreations Jewelry, may be contacted at (281) 391-4367, or toll free at 1-866-789-2323. She also circulates a monthly email newsletter. For anyone interested in being placed on her mailing list, visit her site (www.swcreations.net) or contact her by email.

Ms. White is available to the media for interviews and may be contacted at (281) 391-4367.

Press contact: Stephanie White
Company Name: SWCreations™ Jewelry
Phone: (281) 391-4367
Website: www.swcreations.net

What's the Story with Heat and MS?

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In , the body’s immune system attacks the myelin on the nerves. This myelin is a protective coating that helps the nerves conduct better. After the myelin is damaged, the nerve has a more difficult time conducting signals properly. It is theorized that heat makes it even harder for the nerves to conduct the signals properly. Since the nerves are already in a damaged state, the last thing that an MS suffer needs is for heat to make the situation worse.

It is worth noting that not all sufferers are affected by heat sensitivity. If you are one of the ones not affected, you are definitely luckier than I am!

Things to avoid

If you are one of the victims, there are some things you should be conscious to avoid whenever possible. Some of these things are:

Essentially, the trick is to avoid doing things that elevate your . Even a small rise in your core body temperature can trigger flare-ups of MS symptoms. The good news is that these flare-ups are usually temporary and pass on their own, after you give yourself time to cool down.

Increases in body temperature due to fever and illness are sometimes known to cause real exacerbations that are not temporary. They can be genuine flare-ups that cause a worsening of symptoms that may be permanent and be a true progression in the MS. This is, of course the worse thing for we as we certainly do not want a progression of our illness!

What Happens if You Overheat?

Since MS is so individual in different people, there is no specific set of symptoms that will be brought on by heat in every . Some of the typical symptoms that are reported are things like weakness, numbness, vertigo, body aches, blurred vision, tremors and even impaired cognitive function.

I know that I have personally been known to overdo it when working in the yard. On two occasions, I have found myself with the choice of falling or sitting down NOW. My muscles seem to just refuse to work, my body gets very weak and I also get very dizzy.

One of the early warning signs for me is when I’m outside in the summer, it’s 95 humid, Georgia degrees here in Atlanta, and suddenly I’m covered with chill bumps. About that time, I figure it’s time for me to take a break and cool off.

What Can I Do to Avoid This?

When you have MS, it is important that you do everything you can to avoid getting overheated. I’ll give you some ideas on how to remain more comfortable. When you’re at home, make use of the air conditioner or at least fans to help keep you cool. If you’re going out, try to choose places to go that are air conditioned and cool, such as shopping malls, grocery stores, restaurants and movie theaters. If you want to exercise, try to go swimming in a nice cool pool! That will allow you to exercise and still be kept cool.

When you know you’re going to be out in the heat, there are numerous things that you can do to help yourself stay cool. Take advantage of available cooling products such as cooling vests, cooling neck wraps and cooling bandanas. Also, try to wear seasonally appropriate, loose fitting, light weight clothing. Be sure to keep yourself well hydrated and drink plenty of fluids, especially cold, icy drinks.

Last, but not least, try to avoid exposure to illnesses that may cause you to have a fever and sickness. It’s not always easy to avoid sick people and you might not always be able to. Even so, you can do things to help. Two major things are to wash your hands several times a day and get an annual flu shot. The handwashing helps keep your hand free of germs that you might transfer to your face. And the flu shot??? Well, let’s just say you really need to try to avoid a nasty case of the flu!

Now, with all of this in mind, remember to take care of yourself and BE COOL!

Tysabri for Crohn's Disease?

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What do you think about Biogen and Elan applying to sell Tysabri as a drug for Crohn’s Disease? According to this article at RebOrbit, that’s exactly what they plan to do.

I don’t know about some of you but I am not comfortable with the idea of using Tysabri for MS yet. I think the approval was pushed through and as we know, there have been some complications from the drug. However, I believe that all those cases involved using Tysabri in conjunction with . Still, I think I’ll just stick with my and B-12 for now!

For those who suffer from , I hope that this works out well for you. I have a cousin who suffers from it and I know it’s not pleasant to have to deal with.

You guys go on over and read that article at the link that I gave you. I think you’ll find it to be good information. An excerpt of the article is shown below:

By Jeffrey Krasner, The Boston Globe

Dec. 16–. and . said yesterday that they have applied to the Food and Drug Administration for approval to sell Tysabri, a multiple sclerosis drug, to treat patients with Crohn’s disease.

The drug is already being evaluated as a treatment for Crohn’s by the European Medicines Agency, and both companies had long predicted they would file a Crohn’s application with the FDA by the end of the year. But in November, Biogen Idec chief executive James C. Mullen told the Globe he didn’t expect European regulators to approve the Tysabri request, and might ask the Cambridge company to conduct additional clinical trials.

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