When it comes to learning how to detect MS doctors have a battery of tests to run on the patient. These particular tests are not designed to diagnose MS but are in fact designed to exclude other diseases, because there is no such thing as a single test that will determine MS in a patient. One of the first steps taken is actually a compilation of a detailed patient history on the particular person as well as great detail on any experienced symptom. It is important to keep note of the symptoms that a person experiences and to write down when they occur, how long they last, and how bad they get, as well as any outside factors that help or worsen these symptoms.
Along with this detailed history, doctors will run a certain number of blood tests. These tests will use samples of the patient’s blood to determine whether or not a pathogen like one that causes HIV or Lyme disease is the culprit. Another important test is a lumbar puncture which collects the cerebrospinal fluid in order to determine the level of antibodies in it. This test is also sometimes called a spinal tap. While this test is not a certainty of diagnosis, it is very important in determining whether or not MS is a possibility as MS will often result in a high level of antibodies within this fluid.
Another tool that is used in learning how to detect Multiple Sclerosis is an MRI scan. This type of a scan is used to verify whether or not there are extant scars or lesions on the spinal cord and the brain. While MS is not the only disease that can cause such lesions, and migraines or high blood pressure can cause them as well, it is important to note that these lesions are in fact responsible for many symptoms. If the scan is done too early for these lesions to be easily visible, doctors will use a specific dye called gadolinium which is injected into the patient’s system in order to highlight the lesions and make them easier to see.
How to Detect Multiple Sclerosis through an MRI
It is important to note that the MRI of a brain is how the doctors are able to detect MS by locating scars or lesions. Along with this, lesions can be identified as to whether or not they are old and inactive or recently formed and active. The actual MRI process takes a bit of time but is painless and uncomplicated. If the radiologist in question deems it needed, a dye called gadolinium is injected into a person who then undergoes a MRI scan. The reason for this dye is that it will effectively highlight and make all lesions glow bright on the completed scan.
The process of injection follows a few distinct steps. At first, a saline solution is introduced through an IV in order to prevent clotting of the blood in the vein of the patient. When this dye is administered, the patient will most likely feel a cool sensation traveling down their arm and through the rest of their body. After the dye has been distributed in the body, the scan may start.
It is very important to understand that this scan can last a couple of hours and during this time the patient will have to lie completely and absolutely still. Along with this, the machine will make very loud thumping noises and in fact, the patients are provided with specific ear protection in order to protect them from hearing loss. The machine will take a while to finish and the doctor will let the person know how long it’ll take to complete that scan and when to talk to him or her about the results.
However, when it comes to how to detect MS the MRI is not a perfect solution. This machine is not well suited for everyone. People who have metal implants in the body or are claustrophobic will not be able to complete this test. In addition, of the person in question has a pacemaker or an insulin pump they will not able to complete such a scan either. Finally, the key requirement is that people need to be able to lie very still for thirty to sixty minutes or longer, which might also be an issue with some people.
