DEAR DR. GOTT: Please give me information on multiple sclerosis. Do you recommend any holistic or natural supplements that are helpful in treating the condition? My 41-year-old daughter-in-law has just been diagnosed with it. Thank you. Your column is very informative.
DEAR READER: Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system destroys the protective sheath covering the nerves. This, in turn, interferes with signals between the brain and the remainder of the body, resulting in nerve deterioration.
Symptoms vary from person to person but can include an inability to speak or walk, dizziness, tremor, unsteady gait, double or blurred vision, weakness on one side of the body at a time or on the bottom half of the body. Increases in body temperature can worsen symptoms.
The disorder can affect anyone at any age but commonly begins between the ages of 20 and 40, with Caucasians at the top of the list. Women are more likely to develop MS than are men. Heredity plays an important role except in the case of identical twins. Should one twin be diagnosed with MS, the second has only a 25 percent to 30 percent chance of developing it. People also appear more susceptible if they have other autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes, a thyroid disorder or inflammatory bowel disease.
Diagnosis can be difficult because other disorders with similar symptoms must be ruled out first. A spinal tap, MRI or electrical testing might be considered. A spinal tap can show abnormal levels of white blood cells or proteins. The MRI can detect lesions of myelin loss caused by MS. Electrical testing can trigger the brain to respond to outside stimuli. An MRI may not provide proof-positive results, however, because the lesions detected could be caused by other conditions, including lupus and Lyme disease.
While there is no cure, there are medications, such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and glatiramer, which protects the myelin (the fatty substance that covers nerve fibers) and prevents it from being attacked. Another procedure patients might consider is interferons (proteins that protect against vital infection), which appear to slow the progression of MS. The downside is that interferons can cause liver damage. Then there’s physical therapy, obtaining sufficient rest, avoiding extreme heat, and eating properly. Because mental stress can accompany MS, counseling and support groups are endorsed.
Herbal remedies are a long shot but could include omega-3 fatty acids, such as is found in freshwater salmon, and bromelain, a substance extracted from pineapple that is thought to control pain and inflammation. Before trying either of these remedies, I would recommend your relative speak with her physician to obtain his or her opinion. Your daughter-in-law should be under the care of a specialist who can guide her through this ordeal. Many people do not require any treatment in the early stages, while others will fare better with a more aggressive approach.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Medical Specialists.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
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