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11 early warning signs of multiple sclerosis

11 early warning signs of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disorder of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). In this condition, the immune system targets the protective sheath that shields the nerve fibers, which causes communication problems between the brain and the body. This condition can cause permanent damage to the nerve fibers. Warning signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary between patients. Some of the most common early signs of MS are listed below.

1) Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)- In some patients, the earliest indicator of MS is CIS. This episode lasts 24 hours, and one may experience neurologic symptoms that cannot be associated with another cause, some of which are listed below.

  • Optic neuritis- This condition causes damage to the myelin of the optic nerve, leading to vision problems and eye discomfort.
  • Lhermitte’s Sign- This is caused by a lesion on the spinal cord, which causes a tingling or shock sensation in the back and the neck, especially when one bends their neck.
  • Transverse myelitis- This affects the spinal cord and may cause muscle weakness, numbness, and other issues.

2) Fatigue- Fatigue is one of the most common indicators of MS. It is described as exhaustion that makes it difficult to carry out one’s daily activities. It may worsen at the end of each day, after exercising, and during illness.

3) Vision problems- Vision problems, or optic neuritis, occurs in 1 in 4 cases of MS. Some of these include-

  • Temporary loss of vision in the affected eyes that may last for days or weeks
  • Color blindness
  • Eye pain
  • Flashes of light when moving the eye
  • Double vision
  • Involuntary eye movements

4) Numbness or tingling- People with MS may experience abnormal sensations such as numbness and tingling in their arms, legs, or trunk, which may last a few days.

5) Muscle spasms and stiffness- MS can also cause muscles to contract tightly and painfully or become stiff and resistant to movement.

6) Mobility problems- Due to muscle weakness and spasms, one may also experience mobility problems, such as clumsiness, difficulty in balance or coordination (ataxia), shaking of the limbs, and dizziness or vertigo.

7) Pain- People with MS may experience the pain of two types-

  • Neuropathic pain- This pain is caused by damage to the nervous system and manifests as stabbing pains in the face or sensations such as pins and needles, burning, or squeezing in the limbs.
  • Musculoskeletal pain- People with MS may also experience pain that is indirectly caused by MS, such as pressure on the lower back and hips when walking or moving.

8) Sexual concerns – MS can impact one’s sexual activity as well. Men with MS may experience erectile dysfunction. On the other hand, women with MS may experience issues like vaginal dryness or reduced sex drive.

9) Cognitive problems- Some people may experience cognitive dysfunction. It may occur in the form of-

  • Problems in learning or remembering new things
  • Slowing down when processing lots of information or multitasking
  • Reduced attention span
  • Getting stuck on words
  • Problem with understanding or processing visual information
  • Experiencing difficulty in planning and problem-solving
  • Problems with reasoning, such as mathematical laws or solving puzzles

In rare cases, those with MS may also experience mood swings, such as suddenly bursting into tears, laughing, or shouting angrily. People with MS are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety. However, it is unclear whether these problems are caused as a symptom of MS or due to the stress of managing this chronic disorder.

10) Bowel and bladder problems- Bladder and bowel problems are common with MS. These include-

  • Having to pee more frequently
  • Experiencing a sudden urge to pee and passing urine unintentionally (urinary incontinence)
  • Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
  • Having recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Constipation
  • Bowel incontinence

11) Difficulty in speech or swallowing- Some people with MS may develop dysphagia or difficulty chewing or swallowing. They may also develop dysarthria, which causes speech to become slurred or difficult to comprehend.

MS can happen to people of any age, but it is most frequently diagnosed between 20 and 40. Many people experience MS symptoms for years before receiving a proper, confirmed diagnosis. However, an early diagnosis and prompt treatment can help delay the formation of new lesions, reduce the risk of brain atrophy, and lower the relapse rate.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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6 healthy smoothies that help fight arthritis symptoms

What we eat may play a significant role in the upkeep of our health. Some healthy foods may also help tackle symptoms like stiffness and joint pain, which are caused by arthritis. However, eating certain types of meals regularly could get boring. So here are six smoothie ideas to make meals more fun and simultaneously manage the symptoms of arthritis. Moreover, one should consult a healthcare expert before introducing these foods to their meal regime. Avocado smoothie Avocados are a healthy fruit choice, rich in healthy fats and vitamin E. Such properties are essential for preventing cartilage damage, which reduces the symptoms of joint pain caused by arthritis. To enjoy the fruit as a smoothie, one needs a cup of avocado cubes, a cup of cherries, and a cup of natural pineapple juice. The next step involves simply mixing all the ingredients and adding water to the mix until it reaches the desired consistency. Blueberry smoothie Those who enjoy eating berries may love to learn that blueberries are significantly healthy for the body, especially in tackling the symptoms of arthritis. Adding blueberries to meals could introduce several phytonutrients, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins to the body, which may tackle the effects of inflammation. For example, one could enjoy a blueberry smoothie by blending about three-quarters of the berry with other anti-inflammatory foods like a cup of kale, two pitted dates, and bananas. Also, add half a tablespoon of almond butter, and mix it with low-fat milk. After it is ready, pour the concoction into a glass and enjoy it. Other berries like blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries can also be used to create this delicious smoothie. Pineapple smoothie While pineapples could be enjoyed after being cut into slices, turning them into a smoothie may help break the monotony occasionally. To do this, one would need to blend the fruit with other ingredients, including cilantro, ginger, and romaine lettuce. The individual should add water to the mixture occasionally until it reaches a consistency of their choosing. As for the benefits of pineapple, it contains bromelain, an effective enzyme with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. The property may be useful in fighting the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Eating pineapple has also shown benefits in reducing the effects of rheumatoid arthritis. Matcha protein smoothie with vanilla One of the most beneficial smoothies for arthritis includes a matcha protein smoothie with a blend of vanilla. Matcha is a green tea leaf that one can use in a powdered form. It is rich in antioxidants that could help prevent the breakdown of cartilage in the body and reduce inflammation and joint pain. To make the smoothie, add a scoop of vanilla powder, fresh vanilla beans, half a teaspoon of honey, two teaspoons of matcha green tea powder, and a cup of low-fat milk or almond milk in the blender. Simply blend the ingredients, and you've got yourself a healthy vanilla-infused matcha smoothie. Broccoli smoothie If an individual gets bored of eating this vegetable all the time, they could enjoy it in the form of a smoothie. One will need a handful of broccoli, half a cucumber, a thumb-sized ginger piece, and kale to make the smoothie. The ingredients must be mixed in a blender with half a cup of apple juice. Furthermore, one must add three ice cubes to the mix before enjoying the chilled recipe in a glass. As for its benefits, broccoli contains high amounts of vitamins K and C and a compound called sulforaphane. Together, these properties help slow or prevent the progression of osteoarthritis. The vegetable is also rich in calcium, which is essential for building stronger bones. Turmeric infused smoothie Turmeric is a yellow spice, traditionally added to curries and foods to enhance flavor. But one could also enjoy the powder by creating a delightful smoothie. One requires ingredients such as a handful of kale, half a cup of frozen pineapple chunks, a quarter spoon of ginger, and a pinch of black pepper. They could also add a cup of low-fat milk and a spoon of turmeric and chia seeds into the mix. Finally, blend the ingredients and add milk occasionally until it reaches a desirable consistency. Turmeric is a spice rich in curcumin, a property that fights against the symptoms of inflammation, manages high blood pressure, and also reduces the risk of cancer.

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