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How Infections Worsen Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms – Risk Factors

Learn about the impact of infections on multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms and factors that can contribute to worsening of the disease by tamaraferon
Estimated reading time: 2 min 51 sec
How Infections Worsen Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms – Risk Factors Photo by Anton Uniqueton on Pexels

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that affects approximately 2.3 million people worldwide.

MS is considered to be an autoimmune disease, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective layer called myelin surrounding nerve fibers leading to their damage and inflammation. The severity and progression of MS symptoms can vary from person to person; common symptoms include muscle weakness, impaired coordination, vision problems, difficulties with balance and sensitivity to heat and cold.

: How Infections Worsen Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

While the cause of MS is not yet fully understood, research has shown that certain environmental factors such as infections can exacerbate MS symptoms.

Infections activate the immune system, which leads to increased levels of inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation can damage the nerves in MS patients and also cause new symptoms to arise.

Studies have also shown that MS patients who experience infections have a higher risk of relapsing and experiencing more severe symptoms.

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Infections can cause a “flare-up” of MS symptoms or trigger the onset of symptoms for the first time in individuals who have not previously experienced any symptoms.

: Infectious Pathogens and MS Symptoms

Various infectious pathogens have been associated with worsening of MS symptoms, including:.

  • Herpes simplex virus (HSV): HSV is a common virus that causes cold sores. Infection with this virus has been linked to an increased risk of developing MS.
  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): EBV is a type of herpes virus that is associated with infectious mononucleosis. People with a history of infectious mononucleosis have a higher risk of developing MS than individuals who have not had the disease.
  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV): CMV is a virus that is widespread in the general population, and infected individuals typically have no symptoms. However, some studies suggest that infection with CMV may worsen MS symptoms.
  • Gastrointestinal pathogens: Bacteria that cause gastrointestinal infections, such as Helicobacter pylori and Chlamydia pneumoniae, have also been linked to the worsening of MS symptoms.

: Other Risk Factors

In addition to infections, there are other risk factors that may contribute to the worsening of MS symptoms, including:.

  • Stress: Stress can weaken the immune system, making it easier for infections to take hold. High levels of stress have been shown to increase the risk of relapse in MS patients.
  • Smoking: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing MS, as well as a higher risk of relapse and more severe symptoms in individuals who already have the disease.
  • Poor Diet: A diet lacking in essential nutrients can weaken the immune system, making it easier for infections to take hold and worsening MS symptoms.
  • Vitamin D Deficiency: Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of developing MS, as well as a higher risk of relapse and more severe symptoms in individuals who already have the disease.
  • Medications: Some medications used to treat other conditions or to manage MS symptoms can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.

: Conclusion

While the exact relationship between infections and MS is still being studied, it is clear that infections can worsen MS symptoms and increase the risk of relapse.

It is also important to be aware of other risk factors that can contribute to the worsening of MS symptoms and take steps to manage them, such as reducing stress, quitting smoking, adopting a healthy diet, monitoring vitamin D levels, and discussing medication options with a healthcare provider.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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