Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system. A disease of the central nervous system in which the immune system attacks the protective layers around the nerve fibers is called multiple sclerosis. This results in inflammation and lesions due to which the brain finds it difficult to send the signals to the remaining body parts.

As the first symptoms show of this disease till the disease is treated, the process is a continuous one in which care is needed. With modern treatment facilities, there is a reduction in the relapses in the patients. The treatment module can include the following techniques:

• Treatment of the specific symptoms of the disease
• Treatment of the relapses of the disease
• Treatment to lower the number of relapses of multiple sclerosis

Treatment of multiple sclerosis can be done by the following methods.

1. Medications and subcutaneous
   Subcutaneous means ‘below the skin’. Mostly, these medications are given in the form of injections. Treatments by this methodology include:
2. Glatiramer acetate
   Also known as Copaxone, Glatiramer acetate functions as a modulator of the immune system. It is given subcutaneously on a daily basis or thrice a week until the treatment is done. Side effects tend to include shortness of breath, chest pain, flushing, or rashes.
3. Intravenously
   Intravenous medication is injected into a vein. The number of doses is less and isn’t as often as subcutaneous injections. Note that an intravenous infusion is carried out in a medical setting under the supervision of a trained medical professional.
4. Natalizumab
   Also called Tysabri, this medication inhibits adhesion molecules. Adhesion molecules tend to disrupt the immune system. Natalizumab is usually administered intravenously once every four weeks. Patients may experience side effects that include headaches, depression, joint pain, or abdominal discomfort.
5. Orally
   Orally, certain medications can be administered for the treatment of this disease. These are usually taken daily and can be self-administered. It’s a good option for those looking to avoid needles.
6. Fingolimod
   This medication works by preventing the T-cells from escaping lymph nodes. Fingolimod is usually given for the relapsing form of the disease, and it is an oral medication.
7. Dimethyl fumarate
   Dimethyl Fumarate is anti-inflammatory in nature and functions by defending myelin and nerves from damage. This is also an oral capsule, given twice a day. Side effects include a higher count of liver enzymes and gastrointestinal changes.
8. Cladribine
   Cladribine is given to patients who have relapsing multiple sclerosis. It has shown promise in reducing the remission of relapsing multiple sclerosis. It works by destroying the white blood cells (T and B cells), which otherwise attack the myelin coating the nerves in the spinal cord and the brain.
9. Plasmapheresis
   Plasmapheresis, in simple terms, means plasma exchange. Plasma is removed from your blood, and then the blood cells are separated. These blood cells are now added to albumin and put back into the body. This procedure is used if the symptoms cannot be treated by steroids.
10. Physical therapy
    Physical therapy is an important part of treating this disease. It should be conducted under trained personnel. Strengthening exercises are taught in the sessions, which makes it easier to conduct daily activities.
11. Acupuncture
    Nowadays, along with medications and physical therapy, acupuncture has also been suggested as a treatment option for the disease. In this mode of treatment, the acupuncturist puts thin needles into selected parts of the body for the treatment of the disease. This method of treatment can help with dealing with the symptoms of the disease like numbness, mood swings, fatigue, and a tingling sensation.

Lifestyle changes that need to be made

To some extent, there should be changes in the lifestyle of the patients, along with medications.

1. Balanced diet
   A balanced diet that is healthy is an essential lifestyle change to be made in this disease.
2. Rest
   Adequate rest is required for people suffering from the disease. Hence, patients should not compromise on the hours of their sleep in other activities.
3. Stress
   Stress should be managed effectively as stress triggers the symptoms.
4. Exercise
   Exercise and physical activity should be an integral part of a person suffering from this disease. With regular exercise, bones and muscles strengthen up.