HEALTH MINISTRY (VOL 3)

“ MS isa chronic
neurological condition that affects the central nervous system which is the brain and
spinal cord. No one knows the direct cause-yet. It is believed that several factors play
a role to influence this autoimmune disease. The immune system normally protects
the body from disease and infection, but something causes the body to mistakenly
attack and harm itself. Another theory is that a viral infection encountered before the
age of 15 can cause the disease to develop in later life. Environmental factors
suspected include decreased sunlight and lower levels of vitamin D. 2. MS is not
hereditary, but if a parent or sibling has MS, this increases the likely occurrence to
25%. 3. MS can affect people of any age, gender and any ethnic background.
However, it is more common in women and more frequent in Caucasians than
African Americans or Hispanics. 4. It is commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20
and 40, but has developed in young children, teens and older adults. There are more

cases in the northern states, twice as many as the southern states. 5. In 2017, close
to 1 million people in the U.S. were living with MS. 6. It has no specific warning signs.
The early symptoms include sudden decrease in, blurred double vision, numbness or
tingling in the body or limbs, changes in balance or coordination, weakness in the
arms or legs, and heat sensitivity. 7. If any of the symptoms develop, consult your
health care provider immediately. 8. MS is unpredictable and no two cases are
exactly the same. Expect good day and bad days. 9. If the person I diagnosed with
progressive MS, expect a steady worsening of symptoms. 10. The best plan of care
includes beginning early treatment, adhering to the medication schedule, managing
sleep and stress, eating well, staying active and quitting tobacco.”