There is no known cure for MS. However, current therapies can slow the disease and help control symptoms. Multiple sclerosis MS can cause cognitive changes. Managing these changes effectively may help slow them down and reduce their effect on your life. Neurologist Barbara S. Giesser, MD, explains how multiple sclerosis affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve.
She also looks at the cognitive…. Multiple sclerosis MS can cause immediate symptoms or longer-term issues that arise slowly over time. Managing both types of issues may improve your…. Unhappy with your RRMS medication? Also learn about side effects, other safety considerations…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Pictures of the Physiological Changes of MS. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Story — Updated on June 9, How does MS wreak its damage?
Where does the damage occur? MS focuses on the central nervous system. Share on Pinterest. The importance of nerve cells. MS starts with inflammation. Inflammation targets myelin. People living with MS may have untreated sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. This can also impact cognition. When these secondary factors are treated, cognitive function often improves. Research has shown that targeted cognitive rehabilitation strategies are beneficial.
These strategies address specific domains — like attention, multitasking, processing speed, or memory — using techniques such as computer training. Are there any lifestyle approaches, such as diet and exercise, that may help people living with MS to reduce or limit cognitive changes? A growing body of literature suggests that regular physical exercise may improve cognitive function in people with MS. However, a specific regimen for this has yet to be determined.
While no diet has been shown to affect cognition in people with MS per se , a heart-healthy diet may reduce the risk of comorbidities other diseases that can contribute to cognitive impairment. The diet should also limit saturated fats and refined sugars. Following this type of eating plan may limit comorbidities such as vascular disease, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure.
All of these conditions can contribute to cognitive impairment and disability in people with MS. Smoking is a risk factor for brain atrophy, so quitting smoking may help to limit further atrophy. Barbara S. Giesser has conducted peer-reviewed research into the effects of exercise in persons with MS. Multiple sclerosis MS can cause cognitive changes. Managing these changes effectively may help slow them down and reduce their effect on your life.
Multiple sclerosis MS can cause immediate symptoms or longer-term issues that arise slowly over time. Managing both types of issues may improve your…. Unhappy with your RRMS medication? Also learn about side effects, other safety considerations…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.
Written by Barbara S. Back to Health A to Z. Multiple sclerosis MS is a condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance. It's a lifelong condition that can sometimes cause serious disability, although it can occasionally be mild.
In many cases, it's possible to treat symptoms. Average life expectancy is slightly reduced for people with MS. It's most commonly diagnosed in people in their 20s and 30s, although it can develop at any age. It's about 2 to 3 times more common in women than men. The symptoms of MS vary widely from person to person and can affect any part of the body. Depending on the type of MS you have, your symptoms may come and go in phases or get steadily worse over time progress.
The early symptoms often have many other causes, so they're not necessarily a sign of MS. Let your GP know about the specific pattern of symptoms you're experiencing. If they think you could have MS, you'll be referred to a specialist in conditions of the nervous system a neurologist , who may suggest tests such as an MRI scan to check for features of MS.
Find out more about diagnosing MS. MS starts in 1 of 2 general ways: with individual relapses attacks or exacerbations or with gradual progression. More than 8 out of every 10 people with MS are diagnosed with the relapsing remitting type. Someone with relapsing remitting MS will have episodes of new or worsening symptoms, known as relapses.
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