Multiple sclerosis affects the brain and the central nervous system, resulting in severe damage to nerves. In this condition, the immune system attacks the protective shield of nerve fibers, which eventually results in a lack of coordination between the brain and the rest of the body. The symptoms of MS include blurred vision, slurred speech, dizziness, tingling, or electric-shock-like sensation in limbs. Fortunately, there are treatment options for MS, and we’ve listed them for you here.

There’s no cure for MS, but there are treatments to prevent attacks, keep the disease from progressing, and manage the discomforting symptoms.

Steroids and disease-modifying medications
Oral prednisone and intravenous methylprednisolone are corticosteroids that curb multiple sclerosis flare-ups and manage its symptoms. Whereas, the disease-modifying medications work on the immune system by preventing it from attacking the protective shield called myelin surrounding the nerves. However, these anti-inflammatory medicines come with side effects, such as increased blood pressure, fluid retention, increased blood glucose levels, mood swings, and insomnia.

Plasmapheresis
This treatment involves plasma exchange to manage severe attacks and sudden flare-ups or relapses, or when the body doesn’t respond to steroids. The fluid portion of the blood is separated from the blood cells, as it contains a protein solution that causes the immune system to attack the nerves. Like the protein albumin solution, a donor’s plasma or a plasma substitute is used in this plasma exchange treatment. The treatment’s side effects include dizziness and weakness, and they put you on a high risk of blood clots and infections.

Deep brain stimulation
Deep brain stimulation treatment for MS involves shutting off a part of the brain being affected through electrical shocks to prevent the progression of MS and tremors. This procedure consists of an electrode that stays in the brain and is connected with a pacemaker device placed near the chest that generates electrical shocks. The electrical stimulation is adjustable, and it works with varied combinations, which has its advantages. For instance, when a particular electrode misses its target, the combination of electrodes can help come close to the target, ultimately solving the procedure’s purpose.

Physical therapy
Stretching and strengthening exercises with a physical therapist’s assistance can significantly improve many of the MS symptoms. Right from better mobility to curbing attacks and learning techniques that make day to day chores simpler, signing up for physical therapy soon after being diagnosed with MS will give you great long-term results.

Muscle relaxants
For patients with severe muscle stiffness or spasms, doctors recommend muscle relaxant sprays, including baclofen, tizanidine, and cyclobenzaprine.

Medication for other symptoms
Symptoms like fatigue, depression, insomnia, bowel problems, reduced mobility, and sexual dysfunctions are other symptoms of MS. Still, they can be warded off with medications and can be combined with physical therapy.