MORE SOUTH AFRICANS ARE BEING DIAGNOSED WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can be a debilitating disease to live with and is generally a unique experience with widely varying symptoms among young adults

---

It is said that an estimated one in 700 South Africans has multiple sclerosis. This number, however, is not as accurate and could be a misestimation as a result of miss-diagnosis at government institutions (lack of resources and professionals).

When patients visit a pharmacy with complaints of numbness in their hands or feet, the pharmacist will frequently recommend taking a vitamin B supplement. However, the symptoms may point to undiagnosed MS, which can negatively impact patients' quality of life. You will be unable to do your job if, for example, you work at a factory and are unable to climb stairs. You cannot drive your children if you are unable to feel the pedals. It significantly affects every part of life, including social and familial relationships, as well as one's capacity for work.

What is MS?
MS sufferers have a wide range of symptoms, making it difficult to accurately describe this complicated illness. The disease often appears in people between the ages of 20 and 30 and affects more women than men. The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), also known as human gammaherpesvirus 4, and other environmental variables, including an unhealthy diet, obesity, smoking, and a lack of vitamin D can further increase the risk of MS.


Red flags to look out for
Signs and symptoms can include vision issues, such as blind spots, hazy vision, or discomfort behind the eyes; newly developed motor weakness; arm or leg weakness; sensory fallout; pins and needles; numbness; or sensory complaints from the waist down.

Risk Factors
With advanced stages of MS, several possible long-term issues or impairments may arise. Certain MS patients may have a steady reduction in mobility as the disease progresses, ranging from restricted movement to total immobilisation.

Patients with severe MS stages may experience a deteriorating gait. They suffer incontinence and gastrointestinal issues, and may develop the need for a wheelchair, walker, or cane.

How to live a meaningful life with MS
The good news for MS sufferers is that there are several cutting-edge management strategies and medications readily available.

It can also be good to adopt a balanced diet, give up smoking, and start an adequate fitness program that fits the patient's ability.

Patients may also decide to seek aid and direction from a psychologist, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist depending on their needs.

The time to live with this illness has never been better, and it is feasible to have a good outlook after receiving a diagnosis. There are several therapies on the market right now.



These people fare poorly if:
They are afraid of taking medication;
They refuse assistance;
They aren't honest about their need for painkillers or antidepressants, etc.

See more videos here.