Demyelination is found in many different diseases, the most common one being the neurological disease multiple sclerosis. Acute demyelination refers to a condition that is similar to multiple sclerosis, and can sometimes be considered a precursor to the disease. Acute demyelination can follow being infected with a virus, bacteria, or a parasite. Vaccinations can also lead to a case of acute demyelination. It can also occur spontaneously. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, drowsiness or fatigue, and seizures. Symptoms typically occur a few weeks after an infection, and they will get progressive worse over a couple of days.
In this type of demyelination, an MRI scan of the brain or spinal cord will show lesions, similar to that of multiple sclerosis. However, with treatment, acute demyelination can go away in a matter of months. It can leave some permanent disability, but other people will fully recover. It is most commonly found in children and adolescents, which can sometimes make it hard to discover the symptoms and make a correct diagnosis, especially in very young children or toddlers who have trouble describing what they may be feeling. Acute demyelination is considered to be one of the multiple sclerosis borderline diseases, and people who have been afflicted with acute demyelination should always keep an eye on any symptoms that could be related to the neurological disorder.
Treatment for Acute Demyelination
Getting treatment early is very important for treating acute demyelination successfully. Early treatment is the best way to ensure that recovery can be quick. It will also lessen the chance of permanent disability from the disorder. When symptoms are present, especially after following an infection of some type, it is important to seek out a medical professional in order to get the proper testing done.
If a diagnosis of acute demyelination is made, than aggressive treatment is started right away. Intravenous medications seem to work better than oral pills. The initial goal is reduce the inflammation that is going on within the body. After the initial aggressive intravenous treatments, patients are usually given a lower dose of oral medication to continue. After experiences a bout of acute demyelination, it is important for people to take care of their bodies appropriately. Medications and vitamins should be taken as directed by a medical professional, and diet and exercise can help to keep a body in its best condition. This can potentially help to reduce the chances of experiencing more demyelination in the future.
