How Does Multiple Sclerosis Affect the Body
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin, in the brain and spinal cord. A very commonly asked question is ” How does Multiple Sclerosis affect the body? “. Keep reading to learn more!
The myelin sheath is a protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers in the central nervous system (CNS). It is made up of a fatty substance called myelin, which is produced by specialized cells called oligodendrocytes in the CNS. The myelin sheath acts as an insulator and helps to speed up the transmission of electrical impulses along the nerve fibers.
The myelin sheath is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system. When it is damaged, nerve impulses can slow down or disrupt communication between the brain and other parts of the body, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms.
In MS, when the myelin sheath is damaged, it can cause a wide range of symptoms. The severity and frequency of symptoms can vary widely between individuals with MS. Some of the most common symptoms of MS include:
- Muscle weakness and stiffness: MS can cause weakness and stiffness in the muscles, which can affect mobility and balance.
- Numbness and tingling: MS can cause numbness and tingling in the limbs, face, and other parts of the body.
- Vision problems: MS can affect the optic nerve, which can cause blurred or double vision, loss of vision, or pain behind the eyes.
- Fatigue: MS can cause extreme tiredness and lack of energy, even after minimal physical or mental activity.
- Cognitive problems: MS can affect cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving.
- Bladder and bowel problems: MS can cause problems with bladder and bowel function, such as incontinence or constipation.
- Emotional changes: MS can cause mood swings, depression, and anxiety.
The symptoms of MS can be unpredictable and can vary in severity over time. Treatment can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, but there is currently no cure for MS.
What Treatments or Therapies Help Multiple Sclerosis?
The exact cause of MS is not known, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is currently no cure for MS, but treatments are available that can help manage symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and improve quality of life.
The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of MS, as well as the individual’s symptoms and overall health. Some options include:
Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs): These are medications that are used to slow down the progression of MS, reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, and help preserve cognitive function. There are several different types of DMTs available, including injectable medications, oral medications, and infusion therapies. As a medication, DMTs may cause side effects, which can vary depending on the medication. Common side effects include flu-like symptoms, injection site reactions, and gastrointestinal problems.
Overall, the decision to use DMTs should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into account the individual’s specific needs, goals, and potential risks and benefits.
Symptom management: MS can cause a wide range of symptoms, and there are several medications and therapies that can help manage these symptoms. For example, medications can be used to reduce muscle spasms, pain, and bladder and bowel problems. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can also be helpful in managing symptoms.
Lifestyle changes: Certain lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management techniques, can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of MS relapses.
Exercise: Exercise can be an important part of managing multiple sclerosis (MS), as it can help improve strength, balance, flexibility, and overall quality of life. However, the best exercise for MS can vary depending on the individual’s symptoms and overall health. Some examples are aerobic exercise, strength training, yoga or tai chi, and water based exercise.
Diet: There is no one-size-fits-all diet for multiple sclerosis (MS), and the best diet for MS may vary depending on the individual’s symptoms and overall health. However, research suggests that a healthy, balanced diet can help improve overall health and well-being for people with MS. Here are some general principles of a healthy diet that may be beneficial for people with MS:
- Focus on whole foods: A diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods can help provide the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants needed for optimal health. This includes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Avoid processed foods: Processed foods, such as packaged snacks and sugary drinks, are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These foods can contribute to inflammation and may worsen MS symptoms.
- Consider an anti-inflammatory diet: Inflammation is thought to play a role in the development and progression of MS. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet, which includes foods such as fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Supplement as needed: Some people with MS may have specific nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin D or vitamin B12. In these cases, supplementation may be necessary to meet the body’s needs.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep the body hydrated and may help reduce MS-related symptoms such as fatigue and constipation.
Stress Management: Stress is a common trigger for MS symptoms, so it is important for people with MS to learn stress management techniques to help them manage their condition. Here are some stress management techniques that may be helpful for people with MS. Some include meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and regular exercise.
Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation programs can help individuals with MS maintain or improve their physical and cognitive abilities. They can also help to manage symptoms, promote independence, and improve mental health. These programs may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
Alternative therapies: Some people with MS find that alternative therapies can be helpful in managing their symptoms and improving their quality of life. Here are some alternative therapies that some people with MS may find helpful:
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help relieve pain, fatigue, and other MS-related symptoms.
- Massage therapy: Massage therapy involves the manipulation of soft tissues to promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension. Some people with MS may find massage therapy helpful in reducing muscle spasms and improving overall relaxation.
- Mind-body therapies: Mind-body therapies, such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation, can help improve flexibility, balance, and relaxation. These practices may also help reduce stress and improve mood.
- Herbal remedies: Some herbal remedies, such as turmeric, ginkgo biloba, and omega-3 fatty acids, may have anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially help reduce inflammation in the body.
- It is important for individuals with MS to talk to their healthcare provider before starting any new alternative therapy, as some therapies may not be appropriate for certain symptoms or health conditions.
Regenerative Medicine for Multiple Sclerosis
Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, is a rapidly evolving area of research and has shown promise in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). Stem cells are unspecialized cells that have the potential to develop into many different types of cells to help repair damaged tissues or cells and reduce inflammation.
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is a type of regenerative medicine that uses stem cells derived from various tissues, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord tissue, to treat a variety of conditions, including multiple sclerosis (MS).
Several clinical trials have investigated the use of MSC therapy in MS, and some have shown promising results. MSCs have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may be beneficial in the treatment of MS. MSCs can also promote the regeneration of damaged tissue, which may help improve symptoms.
One small clinical trial published in 2018 showed that treatment with MSCs improved clinical outcomes and reduced inflammation in individuals with MS. Another study published in 2019 showed that MSCs derived from umbilical cord tissue reduced inflammation and improved motor function. As with any medical treatment, the decision to undergo MSC therapy for MS should be an informed decision and with a provider that has experience and has a positive reputation. Would you like to speak with a professional to help answer the question ” How does Multiple Sclerosis affect the body? “. Contact a care coordinator today at Stemedix to learn more!
Where Can You Access Regenerative Medicine For ALS?
ALS stands for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, which is a progressive and fatal neurological disease that affects the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. The disease causes these motor neurons to degenerate and eventually die, leading to a loss of muscle control and eventual paralysis. In this article, we will discuss the potential benefits of Regenerative Medicine for ALS.
The initial symptoms of ALS may vary, but often include muscle weakness, cramping, twitching, and difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing. As the disease progresses, these symptoms worsen and spread to other parts of the body, eventually resulting in complete paralysis.
There is currently no cure for ALS, but various treatments are available to manage the symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.
How Do You Diagnose ALS?
Diagnosing ALS can be challenging as there is no specific test or procedure to definitively confirm the disease. Instead, a diagnosis of ALS is typically based on a combination of medical history, clinical examination, and various tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. The diagnostic process for ALS may involve:
- Medical history: The doctor may ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, family history, and any other relevant information.
- Clinical examination: The doctor may conduct a physical examination to check for signs of muscle weakness, spasticity, or atrophy, as well as abnormal reflexes or muscle twitching.
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies: These tests measure the electrical activity of muscles and nerves and can help detect abnormalities associated with ALS.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This imaging technique uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and spinal cord, which can help rule out other conditions.
- Blood and urine tests: These tests can help rule out other diseases that may have similar symptoms to ALS.
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): In some cases, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid may be taken from the spinal cord to help rule out other conditions.
It’s important to note that ALS is a difficult disease to diagnose, and the diagnostic process can be lengthy and may require multiple tests and visits to various specialists.
What Treatments are Available for ALS?
There is currently no cure for ALS, but there are various treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. The treatment plan for ALS usually involves a multidisciplinary approach that includes medications, assistive devices, and supportive care.
Medications: Riluzole is the only FDA-approved drug for ALS treatment. It is thought to work by reducing the damage to the nerve cells and delaying the progression of the disease. Other medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain, and depression.
Assistive devices: Various assistive devices such as wheelchairs, speech synthesizers, and breathing machines can help patients maintain independence and improve their quality of life.
Physical therapy: Regular exercise and physical therapy can help improve mobility, reduce stiffness and pain, and slow down the progression of the disease.
Speech therapy: As ALS progresses, patients may experience difficulty with speaking and swallowing. Speech therapy can help patients improve their ability to communicate and swallow food.
Nutritional support: As the disease progresses, patients may have difficulty eating and may require a feeding tube to ensure proper nutrition.
Supportive care: Palliative and hospice care can provide emotional and practical support for patients and their families, focusing on improving the patient’s quality of life and managing symptoms.
It’s important to note that the treatment plan for ALS varies from person to person and is based on individual symptoms and needs.
Regenerative Medicine for ALS
Regenerative medicine is an emerging field that holds great promise for the treatment of ALS. The goal of regenerative medicine is to repair or replace damaged or degenerating cells and tissues in the body, including the nerve cells affected by ALS.
There are several approaches to regenerative medicine that are being explored for the treatment of ALS, including:
Stem cell therapy: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a type of adult stem cell that can differentiate into various cell types, including neural cells, and have been shown to have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. MSCs have been investigated as a potential therapy for ALS due to their ability to differentiate into motor neurons and their potential to modulate the immune response and promote tissue repair.
Studies have shown that MSCs can secrete a range of factors that can promote the survival and growth of motor neurons, protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, and promote neuroplasticity. MSCs can be administered via various routes, including intravenous injection, intrathecal injection, or direct injection into the spinal cord or muscle tissue.
Gene therapy: Gene therapy involves introducing a healthy copy of the defective gene responsible for ALS into the patient’s cells, which can help prevent further damage to the nerve cells. Gene therapy is still in the experimental stage for ALS and requires further research.
Neuroprotection: Neuroprotective therapies aim to protect the motor neurons from further damage and degeneration. Various drugs and compounds are being studied for their potential neuroprotective effects in ALS.
Biomaterials: Biomaterials are materials that can be used to support and enhance the function of tissues and organs. In ALS, biomaterials may be used to deliver drugs or stem cells directly to the affected area.
While there is no cure for ALS yet, research into regenerative medicine and other potential treatments is ongoing, and progress is being made in the field.
Where Can You Access Regenerative Medicine For ALS?
Stem cell therapy for ALS is still considered an experimental treatment, and it is not widely available or approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA for this indication. Therefore, it is important to approach any stem cell therapy for ALS with caution and to thoroughly research any treatment centers or clinics that offer such therapy.
Currently, there are only a few clinical trials investigating the safety and effectiveness of stem cell therapy for ALS. These trials are being conducted at research institutions and hospitals, and participation is typically limited to patients who meet specific eligibility criteria. The treatment will be overseen by a team of healthcare professionals, including neurologists, stem cell researchers, and other specialists in ALS management.
If stem cell therapy is being administered outside of a clinical trial, patients should seek out healthcare professionals who have extensive experience in the field of stem cell research and who are knowledgeable about the use of stem cells for the treatment of ALS.
It’s important to note that patients should only seek treatment from licensed and reputable healthcare professionals who follow appropriate regulatory guidelines and ethical standards. Before undergoing stem cell therapy for ALS, patients should discuss their options with a qualified healthcare professional.
Comparison of the Effect of Cigarette Smoke on Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Dental Stem Cells
Cigarette smoking continues to be the leading contributor to preventable disease and death in the United States, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Smoking cigarettes also increases the risk of tuberculosis, certain eye diseases, chronic pain, and problems of the immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis.
An abundance of clinical research has clearly shown the detrimental effects cigarette smoke has on nearly every area of the body. However, while assumed to be equally dangerous in its effect on stem cells, there is surprisingly little research exploring the negative implications of cigarette smoking on stem cells.
In this review, Nguyen et al. share findings of recent studies on the effects of cigarette smoking and nicotine on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with a specific focus on dental stem cells.
With their ability to self-renew, develop into specialized cell types, and migrate to potential sites of injury, stem cells have demonstrated the potential to build every tissue in the body and have also demonstrated great potential for tissue regeneration and associated therapeutic uses.
As the potential benefits and weaknesses of stem cells continue to be discovered, researchers have found that cigarette smoking negatively impacts the abilities of stem cells while also limiting stem cell viability for transplantation and regeneration.
While there has been a recent decline in the percentage of U.S. adults who smoke, over 34 million U.S. adults continue to be regular cigarette smokers. Interestingly, research has demonstrated the concentration of nicotine to be significantly higher in saliva than in blood plasma following nicotine administration via cigarette, e-cigarette, and nicotine patch – in some cases measuring up to eight times higher concentrations. Considering this research, and considering the established detrimental effects of e-cigarette vapor – and presumably nicotine – on teeth and dental implants, the authors of this review hypothesized that there would be a similar effect when dental stem cells are exposed to cigarette smoke.
Reviewing the effect that cigarette smoke has on MSCs, the authors found that exposing MSCs to cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and nicotine impaired cell migration, increased early and late osteogenic differentiation markers, decreased cell proliferation, and significantly inhibited the ability of MSCs to differentiate to other types of cells.
Nguyen et al. reviewed research that determined cigarette smoke produced a negative impact on the proliferation and differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). Specifically, this research demonstrated a significantly higher depression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and osteocalcin (OC) genes in smokers when compared to nonsmokers. Additional studies found that smokers demonstrated reduced calcium deposition levels and production of ALP when compared to nonsmokers.
Cigarette smoke and nicotine were also found to negatively affect the migration capability of dental stem cells, slowing the migration rate by up to 12% in smokers while also producing a smaller reduction of scratch wound areas when compared to nonsmokers.
While there are not many studies directly comparing the effects of cigarette smoke and nicotine on MSCs and dental stem cells, the authors conclude that dental stem cells exhibit similar characteristics to bone marrow MSCs and that both of these types of stem cells demonstrate similar negative responses upon their exposure to nicotine.
While the authors call for further research to better understand the specific effects of cigarette smoke on dental stem cells, the authors conclude that the findings demonstrating similar responses to cigarette smoke and nicotine between dental stem cells and MSCs can be used to inform future dental stem cell studies. These findings will help dentists better identify which patients might be at an increased risk of poor healing in the oral cavity and if smoking cessation should be considered before undergoing any invasive or traumatic dental procedure, such as tooth extraction.
Source: Comparison of the effect of cigarette smoke on mesenchymal stem ….” https://journals.physiology.org/doi/10.1152/ajpcell.00217.2020.
Is Multiple Sclerosis Hereditary
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and progressive neurological disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin, a fatty material that surrounds and protects nerve fibers, causing inflammation and damage to the myelin and the nerve fibers themselves. Many people often wonder ” Is Multiple Sclerosis hereditary? Keep Reading to find out!
The symptoms of MS can vary widely depending on the location and extent of the damage to the CNS. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, balance problems, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling sensations, blurred or double vision, muscle stiffness and spasms, bladder and bowel problems, and cognitive impairment.
How is Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosed?
In general, the diagnosis of MS is made based on a combination of clinical symptoms, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. While these tests cannot definitively determine the cause of MS, they can help to identify characteristic patterns of damage in the CNS that are consistent with the disease.
The identifying characteristic patterns of damage in the central nervous system (CNS) for multiple sclerosis (MS) can be seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and include the following:
Multiple lesions: MS typically causes multiple areas of damage, or lesions, in the CNS. These lesions can appear in various regions of the brain and spinal cord and are often visible on MRI scans as bright or dark spots.
White matter damage: MS primarily affects the myelin sheath, which is a fatty substance that surrounds nerve fibers in the white matter of the brain and spinal cord. The damage to the myelin results in the formation of lesions that can be seen on MRI scans.
Inflammation: MS is caused by an abnormal immune response that results in inflammation in the CNS. This inflammation can be seen on MRI scans as areas of increased brightness, indicating increased blood flow and immune cell activity.
Symmetry: MS lesions tend to occur in a symmetric pattern, meaning they appear in similar locations on both sides of the brain or spinal cord.
Time course: MS lesions can appear and disappear over time, and new lesions may develop while old lesions may heal. This pattern of damage over time is a key diagnostic feature of MS.
Overall, the combination of multiple lesions, white matter damage, inflammation, symmetric involvement, and a relapsing and remitting time course seen on MRI scans can help to distinguish MS from other neurological conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Is Multiple Sclerosis Caused by Heredity or Environmental?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) has a complex etiology and while the cause of MS is not fully understood, research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development. Currently, there are no definitive tests to determine whether the condition is caused by genetic or environmental factors alone.
People with a family history of MS, certain infections, and vitamin D deficiency are thought to be at increased risk for the disease. Having a close relative with MS, such as a parent or sibling, does increase a person’s risk of developing the disease. However, the risk is still relatively low, with most people with a family history of MS not developing the disease themselves.
While there has been no single gene identified as the cause of the disease responsible for MS and appears to be complex and multifactorial. Genetic testing can be used to identify certain genes that may increase the risk of developing MS but it is not directly inherited in a simple Mendelian fashion, where a single gene is responsible for the disease and follows a predictable pattern of inheritance. Instead, it is believed that multiple genes, each contributing a small effect, interact with environmental factors to increase the risk of developing MS.
Environmental factors, such as exposure to certain infections, smoking, and low vitamin D levels, have also been linked to an increased risk of developing MS. However, it can be challenging to determine the precise environmental factors that contribute to the disease, as many factors may be involved, and their effects may be difficult to measure.
Overall, while genetics can play a role in the development of MS, it is a complex disease with multiple factors contributing to its onset, and more research is needed to fully understand its genetic basis.
Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis
MS is a lifelong disease with no known cure, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Traditional medicine may include medications to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system, physical therapy to improve mobility and balance, occupational therapy to help with activities of daily living. But some are also exploring regenerative medicine.
What is Regenerative Medicine for MS?
Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, is an interdisciplinary field that seeks to replace or regenerate damaged or diseased tissues. This new alternative medicine has the potential to help slow down progression and manage symptoms.
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can develop into different types of cells in the body. The most common stem cell used in therapy today is the mesenchymal stem cell which can be derived from adipose (fat), umbilical cord, or bone marrow tissues.
In MS, stem cell therapy involves using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to regenerate damaged myelin and nerve fibers in the CNS. These MSCs can modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation, which can help to prevent further damage to the myelin sheath that surrounds and protects neurons. Studies have shown that stem cell therapy can improve neurological function and reduce disease activity in some patients with MS.
While regenerative medicine approaches for MS are still in the early stages of development, they hold great promise for the future treatment of this complex disease. To learn more about Regenerative Medicine and the different options for Multiple Sclerosis ( MS ) contact a care coordinator today at Stemedix!
St. Petersburg, Florida
