MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Disease, Symptoms and Treatment

MS (Multiple Sclerosis) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system and negatively affects the quality of life of patients over time. This disease reduces the ability of nerve cells to communicate, leading to various symptoms and loss of function. Knowledge about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of MS can help patients manage their lives better and keep the course of the disease under control.

What Is MS (Multiple Sclerosis)?

MS (Multiple Sclerosis) is a chronic disease caused by damage to nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, known as the central nervous system. As a result of damage to the protective sheath called myelin around the nerve cells, communication between nerve cells is impaired and the transmission of electrical signals slows down. This leads to various functional losses and symptoms in the body. Although MS disease usually starts between the ages of 20-40, it can be seen at any age and is more common in women than in men.

What Are The Symptoms Of MS (Multiple Sclerosis)?

The symptoms of MS vary depending on the location of the damaged nerve cells and the severity of the disease. Some common symptoms are:

• Fatigue and weakness,
• Muscle weakness and spasms,
• Balance and coordination problems,
• Vision problems (blurred vision, double vision, eye pain),
• Loss or abnormalities of sensation (numbness, tingling, burning),
• Bladder and bowel control problems,
• Sexual dysfunctions,
• Memory and concentration difficulties,
• Depression and mood changes,

What Causes MS?

Although the exact cause of MS is unknown, a combination of genetic and environmental factors is thought to play a role in the occurrence of the disease. It is also considered an autoimmune disease in which the immune system abnormally attacks nerve cells, causing damage to the myelin sheath. Factors such as genes predisposing to MS, family history, certain viral infections, and vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the development of the disease.

What are the Types of MS Disease?

MS is classified into four main types. These types are as follows;

Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS); is the most common type of MS and affects approximately 85% of patients. RRMS is characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms of the disease (relapse), followed by the patient’s return to normal (remission) with alleviation of symptoms. This cycle repeats continuously and the patient’s condition usually does not worsen over time.

Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS); In about half of RRMS patients, it can develop into SPMS over time. In this type, disease symptoms worsen steadily and relapses occur less frequently. Remission periods become shorter and less pronounced.

Primary Progressive MS (PPMS); This type, which affects approximately 10-15% of MS patients, follows a continuously worsening course from the onset. Symptoms gradually increase over time and periods of remission are rarely seen.

Progressive-Relapsing MS (PRMS); This type of MS is extremely rare and affects only 5% of patients. Similar to PPMS, PRMS follows a progressively worsening course, while relapses also occur. Remission periods are very rare.

Is MS Disease Genetic?

Although the exact cause of MS is unknown, genetic factors are thought to play an important role in the development of the disease. Studies show that the risk of MS is higher in first-degree relatives (parents, siblings). However, MS is not considered to be a directly inherited disease, because in addition to genetic factors, environmental factors and the immune system are also effective in the development of the disease.

Who Can Get MS?

Although MS can be seen in all age groups, it is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20-50. It is 2-3 times more common in women than in men. In addition, MS disease tends to be more common in people living in cold climatic regions and people of Northern European origin.

MS disease occurs as a result of the interaction of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and problems with the immune system. Therefore, people of any age group, gender, and ethnic background can develop MS. However, the risk factors mentioned above cause the disease to be more common in some people.

How Is MS Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of MS is usually based on the patient’s symptoms, physical examination, and a series of test results. The methods used to diagnose MS disease can be listed as follows;

• Patient history is taken and a physical examination is performed,
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI),
• Visual Evoked Potentials (VEP) Test,
• Spinal Fluid Analysis,
• Blood tests

How Is MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Disease Treated?

Although there is no definitive treatment for MS, treatments are applied to improve the quality of life of patients. The methods used in the treatment of MS are as follows;

Drugs are used to alleviate the symptoms of MS and slow the progression of the disease. These drugs include beta-interferons, glatiramer acetate, natalizumab, and fingolimod, which modulate the immune system.

During attack periods of MS, corticosteroids may be used to alleviate the symptoms experienced by the patient. These drugs reduce the severity of symptoms by accelerating the patient’s recovery process.

Physical and occupational therapy is important for MS patients to improve their quality of life and maintain their independence in their daily lives. Physical therapy improves patients’ muscle strength and flexibility, while occupational therapy teaches daily living skills and adaptation strategies.

Patients with MS may experience urinary system problems such as urinary incontinence and difficulty urinating. Sympathomimetic drugs can be used to alleviate such problems.

MS patients may experience emotional problems such as depression and anxiety during the disease process. Antidepressants and anxiety medications may be used to alleviate these conditions.

The diagnosis and treatment of MS are complex and should be tailored to each patient’s condition. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to improve the quality of life of MS patients and slow the progression of the disease. It is important that patients comply with regular medical check-ups and appropriate treatment methods.

What Problems Can MS Disease Cause?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease that disrupts communication in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and progresses over time. MS is characterized by damage to the protective sheath around nerve fibers called myelin. This damage prevents the nerves from functioning properly and leads to various problems in MS patients. These problems can usually be categorized as follows;

Movement-related problems such as muscle weakness, lack of coordination, balance problems, and spasticity are frequently seen in MS patients. These problems may cause patients to have difficulty in maintaining their daily lives and limit their mobility.

MS may also cause problems in sensory organs. Sensory problems such as vision problems, numbness, tingling, and pain may occur.

The majority of MS patients experience constant fatigue and lack of energy. This may cause serious problems in the work and social life of patients.

MS patients may have decreased cognitive functions such as memory, attention, concentration, and problem-solving. This may make it difficult for patients to be successful in their work and social lives.

MS can also cause emotional problems. Emotional problems such as depression and anxiety can reduce the quality of life of patients and negatively affect their treatment process.

Patients with MS may experience impaired bowel and bladder functions. Problems such as urinary incontinence, constipation, and urination problems can be seen.

MS may also cause sexual dysfunction. Men may experience erection problems, while women may experience sexual reluctance and orgasm difficulties.

Does MS Disease Pass?

Since MS is a chronic and progressive disease, it is not possible to completely recover. However, thanks to today’s treatment methods and medications, the progression of the disease can be slowed down and symptoms can be controlled. In this way, the quality of life of patients can be improved and they can continue their daily lives.

Drugs used in the treatment of MS are categorized into two main categories: those that regulate the course of the disease and those that alleviate symptoms. Drugs that regulate the course of the disease slow down the progression of the disease and reduce the frequency of attacks. Symptom-relieving drugs, on the other hand, reduce the severity of symptoms such as pain, spasticity, and fatigue experienced by patients.

Supportive therapies such as physical and occupational therapy, psychological support, and lifestyle changes are also important for MS patients. These treatments help patients improve their quality of life and cope with the disease.

In conclusion, although a complete cure for MS is not possible at the moment, the quality of life of patients can be improved and they can cope with the disease thanks to the available treatment methods and medications.

MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Treatment Prices in Turkey

Turkey has managed to announce its name to the world with its investments and studies in the field of health. Especially the latest technological devices used in diagnosis and treatment procedures have been a beacon of hope for many diseases. However, there has been an increase in health tourism in Türkiye.

• Hospitals are large, clean, spacious and fully equipped in terms of technological equipment.
• Turkish doctors are specialized, successful, and skilled in their fields.
• Nurses and carers are friendly and compassionate.
• Finding answers to the questions asked quickly and accurately.
• Patience and understanding of all staff, including the intermediary company dealing with the patient.
• Turkey offers holiday opportunities with its natural and historical beauties.
• Easy transportation.
• Diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, eating, drinking, dressing, and holiday needs can be met at affordable prices.

Such situations are shown among the reasons for preference. Regarding MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Treatment Prices in Turkey, we can see that patients and relatives of patients who want to come to Turkey are doing research. However, it would not be correct to give clear price information at this stage. Many factors such as the type of disease, stage, diagnosis process, treatment process, and stay in Türkiye affect the price issue. If you want to get more detailed price information, you can contact us. In addition, if you come to Turkey for treatment through us, we can facilitate your visa application process with the invitation letter sent by us to the consulate.