Brain effects in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the functioning of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The disease causes inflammation and if repeated many times will destroy the myelin sheath of the nerve, slow down or block the transmission of electrical impulses of the nerve, thereby affecting the function of the brain.

What is multiple sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis is a disorder of the brain and spinal cord with reduced nervous system function along with scarring on the outer coating of nerve cells. In the case of multiple sclerosis, it causes destruction of myelin, leading to interruption of information transmission from the brain and spinal cord to other organs of the body.
Tuberous sclerosis of the brain is a rare genetic disorder often associated with genotypic disorders. The disease is benign in nature and does not spread the tumor to other organs of the body.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition of the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve. How does MS affect these areas? What problems does MS cause with specific brain health? Nerves communicate with each other and with the rest of the body by sending electrical and chemical signals. To better understand how nerves work, let's think of nerves in the body as analogous to electrical cables. Nerves including axons are covered with insulating material called myelin. When MS damages myelin, the nerve's ability to conduct electrical signals slows down and becomes uncoordinated. If the axon is also affected, the electrical signal can be completely blocked. When this happens, the nerve is unable to send the proper information and produces the symptoms of the disease. For example, if a muscle is not getting enough nerve input, there is weakness. If the part of the brain responsible for coordination is damaged, this can cause loss of balance or tremors. MS damage to the optic nerve can lead to vision loss. Spinal cord injuries are often associated with problems such as decreased mobility, impaired or abnormal sensation, and impaired genital (genital and urinary) function. When it comes to the brain, the changes caused by MS can contribute to fatigue and other symptoms. MS brain damage can make it difficult to think and remember. MS brain changes can also contribute to mood disorders such as depression.

Multiple sclerosis MS creates damage in areas of the brain that are more myelinated, called white matter. But MS has also been shown to affect low-myelinated regions near the surface of the brain, called cortical gray matter. Thus, causing damage to both white and gray matter structures is associated with cognitive decline. Or damage to specific brain regions can cause difficulty with specific cognitive skills.
As we age, it is normal for brain atrophy (shrinkage) or loss of brain volume. So, what can be done to slow the rate of brain atrophy in people with multiple sclerosis? The rate of brain atrophy in individuals with MS has been shown to be several times greater than the rate of brain atrophy in similarly aged individuals without MS. The reason for this phenomenon is that MS causes damage to the brain's gray and white matter and destroys axons. Furthermore, people with MS who smoke have been reported to have more brain atrophy than non-smokers. And this information is also supported by a number of studies that have reported that disease-modifying therapy can reduce the rate of brain atrophy. There are also some reports that people with MS who are more physically fit have less atrophy than those who are less physically active.

The most common cognitive difficulties in people with MS are often related to memory and information processing speed. The condition may also be related to problems with multitasking, memory retention and concentration, prioritization, decision making, and organization. In addition, difficulty with speech fluency or cognitive difficulties may be a direct result of the lesions. However, cognitive impairment may also be impaired by factors that contribute to fatigue, depression, poor sleep, medication effects, or a combination of these factors. However, some people's cognitive functions are more likely to remain healthy than others.

The different cognitive functions of people with multiple sclerosis tend to involve different parts of the brain, although there is a lot of overlap. Executive functions, such as multitasking, prioritization, and decision-making... mostly involve the frontal lobe of the brain. Many of the brain's memory functions occur in a gray matter structure called the hippocampus. Damage to the corpus luteum, a highly myelinated bundle of nerves that connects the two hemispheres of the brain, is also associated with cognitive decline, and MS often affects all of these areas. In general, brain atrophy and loss of brain volume are also strongly correlated with problems with cognitive function.

The doctor will have short tests of specific cognitive functions that can be done easily and quickly. These activities can screen for evidence of cognitive decline. For example, one of such tests is called the Symbol Numeric Method (SDMT) test. If screening tests suggest cognitive problems, your doctor may recommend a more in-depth evaluation. This is usually done formally with neuropsychological tests. People with multiple sclerosis recommend that cognitive function be assessed at least annually.

When addressing cognitive decline in people with MS, it is important to identify factors that contribute to worsening cognitive problems, such as fatigue or depression. cold. People living with multiple sclerosis MS may have untreated sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, which can also affect cognition. When these secondary factors are treated, a person's cognitive function often improves. And studies have also shown that targeted cognitive rehabilitation strategies benefit patients.
There is increasing literature showing that regular exercise can improve cognitive function in people with multiple sclerosis MS. However, implementing a specific regimen for this change has yet to be determined. Although no diet has been shown to affect cognition in people with MS, a healthy diet can reduce the risk of comorbidities (other diseases). ) may contribute to cognitive decline. A healthy diet consists mainly of lots of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and "good" fats like olive oil. The diet should also limit saturated fat and refined sugar. Following this eating plan may limit comorbidities such as vascular disease, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure. All of these conditions can contribute to cognitive decline and disability in people with multiple sclerosis MS. Furthermore, smoking is a risk factor for brain atrophy, so quitting smoking can help limit further brain atrophy. It is even more important for the patient to remain mentally active and socially connected.
Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the hospitals that not only ensures professional quality with a team of leading medical professionals, modern equipment and technology, but also stands out for its examination and consultation services. comprehensive and professional medical consultation and treatment; civilized, polite, safe and sterile medical examination and treatment space.