
Multiple Sclerosis: Warning Signs, Early Symptoms and Prevention
It is indicated by statistics that three out of every 100,000 individuals are likely to develop multiple sclerosis (MS). It’s widest prevalence appears to be among young adults, although it is not boxed in by age, gender, or demographics. Multiple sclerosis is a disabling disease that occurs when nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord are attacked, resulting in breakdown in communication between the brain and affected body part(s).
1. MS warning signs
The early warning signs of MS may include dizziness, sexual problems, bowel or bladder dysfunction, fatigue and dizziness. Another warning sign more specific to MS is irritable bowel syndrome and secondarily gut ache. Though uncertainty of diagnosis surrounds this condition, consulting with a medical professional is highly recommended at the first sign of any of these symptoms. A doctor will complete several lab tests to check for vitamin levels, heavy metals, and overall blood count.
2. Symptoms of MS
More specific MS symptoms begin to display as communication breakdown occurs between the brain and affected body part(s). If the neck area is affected, patients may report feelings of an electric shock when bending their neck forward. Specific symptoms related to vision may include blurred or double vision while patients often experience numbness in either upper or lower extremities on one side of the body that causes unsteady gait.
3. Prevention tips for multiple sclerosis
- Though this disease has an onset that is difficult to determine, numerous strategies may be utilized to prolong MS prevention, including:
- Consulting with your primary medical physician if the above noted warnings are apparent.
- Increasing intake of vitamin D daily. This may come by spending 15 to 20 minutes having exposure to the sun, and/or ingesting vitamin D supplements.
- Dietary changes, including fatty fish, such as organic salmon, to help fight inflammation.
- Limit or avoid gluten from the diet to help reduce or control inflammation.
- Massage therapy may provide stimulation to joints as well as increase blood circulation.
- Daily exercise (i.e., walks, yoga, swimming, pilates and weight lifting) may serve to help body control, strength, and aid circulation, as well as curb multiple sclerosis symptoms.
4. Vitamin D connection to MS
Several medical studies show a direct correlation between MS and suggest there is a causal relationship between low vitamin D level and the risk of MS. For example, MS is believed to be more prevalent in individuals who live further from the equator. Also, studies show that multiple sclerosis progression is often slowed when consistent ingestion of vitamin D occurs either in supplement form or exposure to sunlight in limited daily setting.