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Multiple Sclerosis

Parkinson’s Disease

Bell’s Palsy

What is

This?

Auto-Immune or not?

A neurologic disease resulting in impaired and worsening function of voluntary muscles. Affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Auto-Immune

Progressively debilitating disease affecting motor function. Overstimulation of the basal ganglia by acetylcholine, dopamine is decreased

Not Auto Immune

Muscle weakness on one side of the face.

Inflammation of the cranial nerve # 7

Recovery 3 weeks- 9 months (some patient may have residual affects)

What are the risk factors/Causes it?

Caused by a genetic, immune mediated attack or infection that destroys myelin.

Risks: Age between 20-40, females, family history, association with interleukin 7 and interleukin 2 receptor genes, viruses and infectious agents, living in a cold climate, physical injury, emotional stress, pregnancy, fatigue, overexertion

Risks: Onset findings age 40-70, males, genetic predisposition, environmental toxins, chemical solvents, chronic use of antipsychotic medications.

Complications: pneumonia, aspiration, dementia

Causes: reactivation of herpes, acute demyelination like Guillain Barre, viruses

Risks: Age, pregnancy, patients with diabetes or hypothyroidism

How do you Diagnose?

There is no single test to diagnose MS. A thorough physical and neurologic examination that includes MRI imaging and blood test, combined with a careful study of an individual’s medical history.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Decrease in cognitive function

Blurred vision

Incontinence and urinary urgency

Muscle spasms

Dizziness

Depression

How do you treat?

Corticosteroids

Plasma exchange

Interferon beta medications

Fingolimod (Gilenya)

Nursing Considerations