Multiple sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disease in which the insulating covers of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged. This damage disrupts the ability of parts of the nervous system to communicate, resulting in a range of signs and symptoms, including physical, mental, and sometimes psychiatric problems. Specific symptoms can include double vision, blindness in one eye, muscle weakness, trouble with sensation, or trouble with coordination. MS takes several forms, with new symptoms either occurring in isolated attacks (relapsing forms) or building up over time (progressive forms). Between attacks, symptoms may disappear completely; however, permanent neurological problems often remain, especially as the disease advances.

Multiple sclerosis causation and treatment
Multiple Sclerosis is an auto-immune disease that involves the immune system's T-cells, B-cells, and antibodies.

In 1997, it was discovered that B-cell therapy (eg Rituximab) which reduces the number of B-cells, brings immediate improvement in MS symptoms. This treatment is more effective for the relapsing-remitting variant of MS, and less effective for the primary progressive variant.

Specific changes in the gut microbiome might increase the risk of MS, and the risk might be reduced using probiotics, antibiotics, a combination, or a change of diet. An 'International Multiple Sclerosis Microbiome Study' commenced in 2015.

Another discovery was that a commonly available and inexpensive antihistamine, can be used to induce remyelination of the nerve cells.

Comparison of Multiple Sclerosis and ME/CFS
Multiple Sclerosis is often used as a control group in ME/CFS research.

There are many parallels between Multiple Sclerosis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

--more studies here--

Learn more

 * Wikipedia - Multiple Sclerosis