The doctor revealed groups of people susceptible to the development of multiple sclerosis

On May 27, the World Day against Multiple Sclerosis takes place. Often, people may consider the symptoms of multiple sclerosis in the early stages insignificant, missing time for treatment and correction of the condition. Vitaly Akimov, PhD, neurologist, Head of the Department of Neurology at the European Medical Center (EMC), told Izvestia about this on May 27.

As the doctor explained, multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the human immune system "attacks" the brain and spinal cord.

"Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the brain and spinal cord, in which one's own immunity causes the appearance of foci of inflammation in them, disrupting their functions," the specialist explained.

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For example, vision, sensitivity, coordination of movements may be impaired, paralysis of body parts and other symptoms may develop, depending on the location of the foci in the brain. The peculiarity of the disease is that in the early stages of the disease, the symptoms can completely disappear in a few days or weeks, so patients may not attach importance to this and do not consult a doctor. Thus, a patient can live with multiple sclerosis for several years and not be aware of it, which can lead to the development of disability at a young age.

Akimov clarified that several factors can affect the development of multiple sclerosis. He drew attention to the fact that multiple sclerosis is not directly inherited, but if there are relatives with this disease, the risk increases. Gender is also a risk factor — women develop the disease more often. Some viral infections can provoke autoimmune disorders, such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, herpes, and others. Smoking, low vitamin D levels, and living in temperate and northern latitudes can also increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis.

Other factors include psychoemotional stress, living in disadvantaged environmental areas where there are chemical plants and potential sources of radioactive radiation. Having a medical history of other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid, diabetes, and being overweight can also increase the risk of developing the disease.

According to the doctor, thus, young women from 12 to 40 years of age are at risk of developing multiple sclerosis, with a peak onset of the disease at 17-19 years of age, with close relatives with multiple sclerosis living in northern latitudes who have suffered viral infections.

The neurologist urged that if there were suspicious neurological symptoms, they should not be ignored. If neurological disorders occur in young, practically healthy men and women, such as visual impairment, impaired sensitivity to body parts, gait disorders, or any other, this should not be ignored.

"Even if the symptoms are minor, but if they do not go away for more than two days, consult a neurologist. This will eliminate serious illness. And in case of confirmation, start treatment on time. The disease is much easier to treat in the early stages, saving young able—bodied people all the opportunities for a long and fulfilling life," the expert emphasized.

Earlier, on April 22, Aminat Gappoeva, an endocrinologist at the SM Clinic, told Izvestia about the dangers of overabundance and lack of vitamin D. According to her, not only vitamin D deficiency can be dangerous, but also an overabundance of it. It is important that the symptoms of vitamin D overabundance may be non-specific and characteristic of other diseases.