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Züri West’s singer Kuno Lauener (62) has been living with multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic nervous system disease, for years. “I am fine now. But I realized that the situation is not getting better,” Lauener says in the big Blick interview. Many people are like him: more than 15,000 people in Switzerland have MS. The disease takes many forms and often develops gradually. Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Society Its president, Jürg Beer (66), gives information about the causes, symptoms and treatment options.
What are the causes of multiple sclerosis?
The causes of multiple sclerosis (MS) are not clear. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system’s defense cells mistakenly destroy the body’s own tissue. “This false reaction is often triggered by a viral disease,” says Jürg Beer. For example, by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). However, this virus is not the only reason. “90 percent of the population will be infected with EBV during their lifetime. “Only a fraction of them will develop MS,” says Beer. Individuals’ genetic predisposition and environmental factors such as exercise and diet are also important.
Why does the disease manifest itself so differently?
MS is a nervous system disease. “Because nerves cover our entire body, MS can manifest in a variety of ways throughout the body,” says Beer. “No two MSs are the same.” Common symptoms include paralysis in the hands, arms, feet, or legs. Others suddenly affected have vision or speech problems, general pain, fatigue, dizziness, or difficulty walking. And: “Depending on which areas of the brain are affected, MS can also lead to cognitive impairment,” says Beer. Due to the complexity of symptoms, it often takes some time to make a diagnosis.
Are there ways to detect multiple sclerosis early?
Beer says it’s important to detect MS early so that treatment can be as effective as possible. “This is possible thanks to modern diagnostic options.” Although there is no MS test, MS can be detected reliably using MRI, cerebrospinal fluid, and neurological examinations. Bira: “Going to the doctor early helps get the disease under control more quickly.”
How can multiple sclerosis be treated?
MS treatments primarily aim to stop or at least slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. “People affected by MS can live fulfilling lives despite their disease.” According to Beer, in addition to specific therapies, a balanced diet and adequate exercise, social integration and contacts are also important. Qualified support and professional advice can provide further important support.
Can you cure multiple sclerosis?
Medicine can slow the progression of the disease but cannot cure it. MS research is therefore pursuing other healing approaches. For example, about reverse vaccinations. Such reverse vaccines specifically suppress the immune system rather than strengthening it. Research on this topic is currently in its early stages, but could lead to vaccines against MS in the future, Beer says. “This way the body’s cells don’t attack your own body.” But there’s one limitation: “It doesn’t work against existing MS diseases.”
More information about MS can be found on the website of the University Hospital Zurich and the website of the Swiss MS Society.
Source : Blick
I am Dawid Malan, a news reporter for 24 Instant News. I specialize in celebrity and entertainment news, writing stories that capture the attention of readers from all walks of life. My work has been featured in some of the world’s leading publications and I am passionate about delivering quality content to my readers.
