Multiple sclerosis: Diagnosis and treatment options
May 20, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Louis Ackermann
Dear Neurologist,
My name is Lilli Zollmann and I am reaching out to you as I have great concerns about my health. Recently, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and I am overwhelmed by the information I have read about it. I am only 32 years old and I still feel very physically fit, so the diagnosis has surprised and unsettled me.
I would like to learn more about how the diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis is made and what tests are necessary for it. Additionally, I am interested in how the disease could progress in the future and what treatment options are available to alleviate my symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.
I am also worried about my future career and how the disease could impact it. Are there any specific measures or therapies that could help me continue in my profession?
I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with more information on diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and possible support measures. I am currently very unsure and hope that you can help me gain a better understanding of my situation and suggest possible solutions.
Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Lilli Zollmann
Dear Lilli Zollmann,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise. I am sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and that you are feeling so worried because of it. It is understandable that this diagnosis raises many questions and fears, but I hope that I can provide you with some clarity with the following information.
The diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis is usually made through a combination of clinical symptoms, imaging techniques such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and laboratory tests. Typical symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis include vision problems, gait instability, tingling or numbness in the extremities. In MRI scans, typical lesions in the central nervous system can be seen, indicating inflammation and demyelination of the nerves. Furthermore, specific antibodies can be detected in the blood, pointing to an autoimmune reaction of the body against nerve tissue.
In terms of treatment options for Multiple Sclerosis, there are a variety of medications available nowadays that aim to slow down the progression of the disease, suppress inflammation, and alleviate symptoms. These medications are prescribed individually depending on the course and severity of the disease. In addition to medication therapies, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support also play an important role in coping with the disease.
Regarding your professional future, it is important that you discuss your diagnosis with your employer and consider possible adjustments in the workplace. There are special rehabilitation measures that can help you continue to work, even if your symptoms worsen. It is important to seek professional help and support early on to ensure the best possible management of the disease.
I hope that this information helps you and gives you courage to deal with your condition. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or uncertainties. You are not alone in your diagnosis, and there are many ways to help you.
Best regards,
Louis Ackermann
