Multiple sclerosis is a condition when the protective coating (myelin) around nerve fibers in the central nervous system is damaged, causing communication disorders between the brain and the body. This disease can attack the nervous system, causing balance problems, triggering visual disturbances, speech, and swallowing food or drink.
In addition to the problems discussed in the Part I article, multiple sclerosis can also attack the skeletal system, immune system, digestive system, reproductive system, and the body's circulatory system.
Skeletal System
People with multiple sclerosis have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis caused by lack of movement and the effects of common multiple sclerosis medications using steroids. Weak bone strength can make people with multiple sclerosis prone to fractures.
Although osteoporosis can be prevented or slowed through physical activity, diet, and supplements, weakened bones can make balance and coordination disorders more dangerous in people with multiple sclerosis.
Osteoporosis is a condition when bone density decreases.
Immune System
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease characterized by the body's immune system attacking its own healthy nerve tissue, causing nerve damage throughout the body. Immune system activity appears to cause inflammation, which is responsible for many multiple sclerosis symptoms.
Deficiencies in certain nutrients can impact immune health and exacerbate multiple sclerosis symptoms. However, most doctors will only recommend certain foods if nutritional deficiencies in people with multiple sclerosis are obvious. One common recommendation that is often given is vitamin D supplements.
Digestive system
Disorders of the bladder and bowel organs, such as constipation and diarrhea, are common in people with multiple sclerosis. The effects of multiple sclerosis can be reduced by adopting appropriate dietary and therapeutic strategies. In certain cases, medication or further medical intervention may be required.
Catheters are sometimes necessary because nerve damage can affect how much urine can be stored in the bladder in people with multiple sclerosis. This condition can trigger bladder infections, urinary tract infections, and kidney infections. Severe infections can arise if the disorders that occur are not handled properly.
Reproduction system
Multiple sclerosis does not directly affect the reproductive system or fertility. Many women with multiple sclerosis find pregnancy a period of respite from multiple sclerosis symptoms. Even so, it is known that there are 2-4 out of 10 women who will experience a relapse after childbirth.
However, sexual disturbances, such as difficulty experiencing arousal or orgasm, are normal for people with multiple sclerosis due to existing nerve damage. Fatigue, pain, and other symptoms of multiple sclerosis can also make sex awkward and less passionate.
Circulatory system
Circulatory system problems are rarely the result of multiple sclerosis. However, weakening the chest muscles can lead to shortness of breath and low oxygen intake. A study says that women with multiple sclerosis have a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure. Physical therapy and regular exercise can help reduce the symptoms of multiple sclerosis and the risk of cardiovascular problems.
Take care of your heart health by exercising regularly.
Although there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, there are a variety of medications, herbal preparations, and dietary supplements that can be used to relieve the symptoms. Treatment of multiple sclerosis can also be done by modifying the condition by preventing its development and impact on the body.
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Source:
Pietrangelo, A. & Weatherspoon, D. (2020). The Effects of Multiple Sclerosis on Your Body. [online]. https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/effects-on-the-body