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Hi, Darcy here...
It's not pretty, but things could be a lot worse! I
have a friend whose son was born with a hole in his
heart. He had 4 operations before age 2. I can still
bathe myself, and drive a car (not at night, and not
for long trips). This is YOUR MS, so make it easier
and comfy for yourself. It's hard enough, and NO, we
didn't sign up for this! But Reality Exists. So, maybe
we can help each other and improve our odds...Come to
this page with a willing attitude, and let's assist
each other! Ready? Let's Go! |
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Stories, info, jokes and more...
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Multiple
Sclerosis(MS)is a
disease of the myelin
nanonline.org/nandistance/mtbi/NeuroIll/ms/ms.html
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the myelin,
the white covering of the nerve cell axons. Myelin is composed of specialized
glial support cells. In the central nervous system, these are the oligodendrocytes.
In the peripheral nervous system myelin is composed of Schwann cells.
Consequently, the disease is most apparent in the white matter pathways
of the brain. There are usually multiple areas of degenerated myelin and
inflammation called plaques. These result in neuronal dysfunction and
impairment. The initial neurological symptoms may reflect the patient's
greatest functional impairment rather than all the areas containing plaques.
The cause of this inflammation and degeneration of the myelin is unknown.
One commonly accepted theory is that the inflammation episodes and plaques
represent a response of the patient's immune system.
Loss of myelin reduces the efficiency of nerve conduction. The most common
symptoms are slight or incomplete paralysis (paresis), abnormal sensations
(paresthesias), and visual impairment. The onset and progression of symptoms
vary considerably from case to case. The great majority of cases will
have exacerbations and remissions of symptoms. Some additional important
points:
* Onset occurs between the ages of 20 and 40.
* The male to female ratio is approximately 1 to 1.5.
* MS is more common among whites than blacks or Orientals.
* MS affects the oligodendrocytes of the CNS.
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What is it? It’s one of those little (not
so little...) things that life throws you, no reason, no fault,
no denying it. It’s MS and yes, it stinks! I’m a big
believer in attitude, it can really make a huge difference. Life
is about choices, and you can shrivel up, or take this by the horns
and live! A good sense of humor is essential as well. Take a break
with me! I DO know what you’re going through... |
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