While MS in toddlers is rare, it is important for the subject to receive focused attention from medical professionals. Attention to MS in toddlers will help the affected toddlers and their families find useful resources and get help managing the condition.
The Symptoms of MS in Toddlers
Thanks to various studies and to the collection of data surrounding MS in toddlers and people of other age groups, our knowledge on the subject has grown tremendously over the years. For instance, we now know that there are genetic factors involved in the determination of one’s vulnerability to developing MS. In addition to the genetic factors, there are environmental factors that play a part in triggering the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis. One of these is prior infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. EBV infections increase the risk of developing MS in toddlers and other children. The virus affects the body’s B-cells, which are an integral part of the immune system. It is also the case that the B-cells of the immune system play a role in the development of multiple sclerosis.
Another factor that increases multiple sclerosis risk in all populations is vitamin D deficiency or the lack of sufficient exposure to sunlight. It is generally recognized that multiple sclerosis incidence is high in northern hemisphere nations which experience reduced sunlight during the winter months. People who do not get enough vitamin D through sun exposure are well advised to increase their dietary intake of the vitamin. This they might do by drinking, say, milk fortified with vitamin D. They may also use vitamin supplements as recommended by their doctors.
When it comes to children in particular, some interesting research data has been unearthed, indicating that children conceived during the autumn and winter months have the highest likelihood of developing multiple sclerosis. The research presents evidence that the first trimester of pregnancy is the most critical as far as the determination of the child’s condition is concerned. Children whose mothers receive high levels of sunlight during the first three months of their pregnancies tend to do okay. Those whose mothers receive significantly less sunlight have higher vulnerability to MS and related illnesses.
This type of study has been carried out at different locations, including Scotland and Australia. The fact that the results were similar indicates that pregnant women are best served by attention to such simple details as potential vitamin D deficiency. Prevention is obviously better than cure. Hence any behavior that reduces one’s risk for MS development is worth adopting.
