MS disease

MS disease, or multiple sclerosis, is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system and one of the most common neurological diseases in young adults. In Finland, 13,000–15,000 people have MS disease, and about 400 new cases are diagnosed each year. The disease is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, and it is more common in women than in men.

Symptoms vary greatly from person to person and according to the disease type. Typical symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness or stiffness, balance and coordination problems, visual disturbances, sensory disturbances in the limbs, urinary problems and cognitive changes such as memory and concentration difficulties. The relapsing-remitting form is the most common: flare-ups alternate with periods of recovery.

MS disease is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system damages the myelin sheath of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic factors, vitamin D deficiency, Epstein-Barr virus infection and smoking increase the risk of developing the disease. In Finland, prevalence is high by international comparison, which may be related to vitamin D status at northern latitudes.

Diagnosis is based on a clinical neurological examination, MRI of the brain and spinal cord, and a lumbar puncture. A neurologist diagnoses MS disease according to the McDonald criteria and assesses the most suitable medication. Early diagnosis and starting treatment are important for slowing disease progression.

Treatment of MS disease has developed significantly over recent decades. Immunomodulatory medicines slow disease progression and reduce flare-ups. Cortisone pulses are used to treat flare-ups. Symptomatic treatment covers spasticity, fatigue, pain and urinary problems.

Rehabilitation is just as important as medication: neurological physiotherapy maintains mobility and balance, occupational therapy supports everyday activities, and speech therapy helps with swallowing difficulties and speech disorders. Regular exercise is safe and improves quality of life, reduces fatigue and slows the decline in functional ability. It is advisable to seek professional assessment without delay when unexplained neurological symptoms appear.