Multiple Sclerosis Sourcebook, Third Edition
Author | : James Chambers |
Publisher | : |
Total Pages | : 0 |
Release | : 2024-07 |
Genre | : Health & Fitness |
ISBN | : 9780780821347 |
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is recognized as the most prevalent acquired inflammatory demyelinating disorder affecting the central nervous system (CNS). Approximately 900,000 individuals in the United States and 2.3 million people worldwide are estimated to be affected by the disease. It generally strikes people between the ages of 20 and 40 and more commonly affects young adults and females. Symptoms of MS can vary significantly based on the location and severity of nerve damage but commonly encompass fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling, coordination and balance challenges, vision impairments, and cognitive changes. While a cure remains elusive, treatments exist to alleviate symptoms, impede disease progression, and enhance overall well-being. Multiple Sclerosis Sourcebook, Third Edition provides information about causative factors, rare variants, primary symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, therapies, and management of multiple sclerosis. It also provides valuable insights into building resilience, exercise guidelines tailored for individuals with MS, and addressing the intersection of MS with work, financial, and legal issues. The book concludes with a glossary of terms related to multiple sclerosis and a directory of organizations that provide additional information. Part 1: Understanding Multiple Sclerosis provides information on the nervous system, factors causing multiple sclerosis (MS), the association between autoimmune diseases and MS, the prevalence of MS across different genders and ages, variants of MS, and other conditions connected to MS, such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, neuromyelitis optica, transverse myelitis, and trigeminal neuralgia. Part 2: Primary Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis describes the various aspects of multiple sclerosis (MS), including fatigue, spasticity, difficulties in communication, and problems related to thinking. It also covers vocal fold paralysis, poor balance, indicating difficulties in maintaining stability, and sexual dysfunction, which pertains to difficulties in sexual arousal or performance. Part 3: Diagnostic Tests, Treatments, and Therapies for Multiple Sclerosis describes the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the Kurtzke expanded disability status scale. It also explores various treatment options, including complementary approaches, aimed at halting the progression of MS. Additionally, it discusses the use of plasmapheresis and highlights the role of Vitamin D in treating MS. Part 4: Living with Multiple Sclerosis includes information about optimizing life with multiple sclerosis (MS) by addressing various aspects such as dietary changes, exercise guidelines, music therapy, vaccinations, equipment for self-care and independence, and self-care tips for caregivers of individuals with MS. Part 5: Multiple Sclerosis and Work, Financial, and Legal Issues explains supporting individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) in different areas of life. It includes accommodating employees with MS in the workplace, financial planning considerations specific to MS, exploring health care options for managing symptoms, understanding disability rights laws for patients, addressing guardianship needs for those with disabilities, and creating advance directives for medical decisions. These aim to provide comprehensive support and guidance for individuals living with MS and their caregivers to navigate various challenges effectively. Part 6: Additional Help and Information includes a glossary of terms related to multiple scelrosis and a directory of resources for further help and information.