Multiple sclerosis is a condition that affects the central nervous system. In this assignment, you will explore this condition in more detail using the scenario below.
Scenario:
A friend of yours discloses that he was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Being the caring friend you are, you wish to know more about the condition and how you can best support your friend. You decide to research this disease further.
To complete this assignment, do the following:
- Research this disease using a minimum of 2 sources. You can use your textbook for one of the sources. Choose the remaining source(s) from the GALE Virtual Reference Library provided on the Structure and Function of the Human Body library guide page.
- In a minimum of 2 pages (not counting the references page), address the following:
- Explain how multiple sclerosis affects the nervous system.
- Describe the treatment options that are available for your friend.
- State whether it was possible for your friend to have prevented this condition.
- Include a references page at the end of your document, formatted using the APA guidelines, that lists your research sources.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, progressive, and degenerative disease that affects the central nervous system. It is a condition that can cause significant disability and has no known cure. The following assignment involves exploring the nature and impact of multiple sclerosis on the nervous system, the available treatment options, and the possibility of prevention.
Answer:
Multiple sclerosis is a condition that damages the protective covering of nerve fibers in the central nervous system, which leads to communication problems between the brain and other parts of the body. The immune system mistakes the protective covering, known as myelin, for a foreign substance and attacks it, resulting in inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath. This damage can cause symptoms, including numbness, tingling, loss of balance, muscle weakness, and problems with vision, speech, and coordination.
When it comes to treatment options, it is essential to keep in mind that there is no cure for multiple sclerosis. However, several options are available to manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. These treatment options include medications such as steroids, immunomodulators, and immunosuppressants, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction may also be beneficial.
Regarding prevention, it is difficult to prevent multiple sclerosis as there is no known cause. It is a complex disease that is thought to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. However, research suggests that some lifestyle changes may decrease the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. These include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and seeking treatment for certain infections.
In conclusion, multiple sclerosis is a complex disease that affects the nervous system, leading to a range of symptoms. There is no cure for this disease, but several treatment options are available to manage its symptoms and slow its progression. While prevention is difficult, making certain lifestyle changes may decrease the risk of developing multiple sclerosis.
