Causes of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) A chronic and progressive disorder of the brain and spinal cord (CNS) caused by damage to the myelin sheath (white matter). Destruction of the myelin sheath leads to scarring (sclerosis), which decreases and eventually blocks nerve conduction.

Incidence: Affects 1 out of 1,000 people and occurs more often in women.

Onset: Most commonly between 20 and 40 years of age.

Etiology: Unknown; possibly an autoimmune disorder or exposure to a virus.

Clinical Findings: Weakness, paresis, or paralysis of one or more limbs, myoclonus (involuntary muscle jerks), impaired or double vision, eye and facial pain, fatigue, dizziness, decreased coordination, and loss of balance.

Nursing Focus
■ The goal of therapy is to control symptoms and preserve function to maximize quality of life.
■ Perform or arrange for ROM exercises to be done twice a day.
■ Assess skin for breakdown and perform routine skin care.

Patient Teaching
■ Provide Pt and family with literature on MS.
■ Encourage a healthful and active lifestyle that includes exercise to maintain good muscle tone, good nutrition, and plenty of rest and relaxation.
■ Stress the importance of avoiding stress and fatigue.
■ Depending on progression of MS, arrange for occupational, physical, and speech therapy.
■ Explain the actions, dosages, side effects, and adverse reactions of all meds, which may include steroids and immunosuppressant therapy, antiviral agents, muscle
relaxants, and/or antidepressants.