Many different diseases will include a form of demyelination syndrome, which occurs when the myelin sheath on neurons in certain nerves is damaged. It can be found in diseases like multiple sclerosis, which is in the central nervous system, and also in diseases that affect the peripheral nervous system, such as Guillian-Barre syndrome. The term demyelination syndrome describes the effects of the condition on the human body, such as the symptoms and results. The condition can be called demyelination syndrome regardless of what disease it is found in.
Demyelination syndrome can be caused by genetics, some certain viral or bacterial infections, chemicals such as insecticides or pesticides, a certain prescription medication, autoimmune reactions by the body, and other unknown causes. The syndrome is not completely understood by medical professionals, and some people may experience demyelination syndrome without any known causes. The cause of the demyelination syndrome can also be directly related to the cause of the neurological disease that the syndrome is found in.
Symptoms of Demyelination Syndrome
There are many different symptoms of demyelination syndrome. They can vary and change depending on the disease that it is found in. It will also always be different depending on which nerves are affected by the syndrome. When the nervous system is affected, symptoms like sensory impairment can occur in the extremities or in the facial area. It can become hard to move, vertigo can be experienced, and there could also be cognitive difficulties. As more myelin is destroyed or damaged on neurons, the symptoms will increase. Some people may experience extreme disability due to demyelination syndrome, especially if it has progressed to a high level of nervous system damage.
Treatment for demyelination syndrome will vary depending on the disease it is associated with. Usually, medications are given in order to help the body protect the myelin sheath on nerves. This cannot undo the damage already done, but it can help protect the nerves from more damage. This slows down the progress of the disease, and it can also help to lessen the symptoms. Treatment can also include certain lifestyle changes, such as changes in an exercise routine or diet. Proper nutrition can be one way to help the body protect itself and stay as healthy as possible, even with a chronic disease. Gentle exercise can also help a body to stay functioning and physical, preventing severe disability.
