Multiple sclerosis is a disease characterized by the immune system "attacking" the
myelin sheath, which is a protective structure that covers neurons, causing permanent
destruction or damage to nerves, leading to a problem in communication between the brain and
the rest of the body.
The signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis change and depend on how many, and
which nerves have been affected, but generally include muscle weakness, tremor, fatigue, or
loss of control of movement and the ability to walk or talk, for example.
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that has no cure, but the available treatments can help
control symptoms, prevent attacks, or slow their evolution, and should always be indicated by a
neurologist.
The exact cause of the appearance of this disease is unknown, but it is known that the
onset of symptoms is related to immunological changes. There are also some factors that can
help the development of multiple sclerosis, such as being a woman between the ages of 20 and
40, having cases in the family as parents or siblings, having autoimmune diseases, or having low
vitamin D levels.
The treatment of multiple sclerosis must be done with medications prescribed by the
doctor to prevent the progression of the disease, to decrease the time and intensity of the crises,
and to control the symptoms with adequate and prescribed medication. Physical therapy is also
an important treatment in multiple sclerosis because it allows muscles to be activated,
controlling weakness in the legs, difficulty walking, or preventing muscle atrophy. Physical
therapy for multiple sclerosis consists of stretching exercises and muscle strengthening. During
the treatment process, it is important to have 8/9 hours of rest at night, to take recommended
physical exercise, to avoid exposure to heat, and to perform practices that help relieve stress,
among others.
