Multiple sclerosis (MS) is caused by lesions which form in the central nervous system. A lesion in relation to MS refers to a nerve cell which doesn’t have myelin, a fatty acid that insulates the cells. This is what causes most MS symptoms. The cells on which this occurs are normally found in the brain, so MS and brain lesions are always found together.
There are tests which can show MS and brain lesions in patients, the most common being magnetic resonance imaging machines and computer tomography scans. This is one way in which MS is diagnosed in combination with symptoms. Common effects from MS are muscle weakness, lack of muscle control, and tremor. These symptoms often go into remission for many patients.
Newer medications are being developed that may help alleviate MS and brain lesions, and the related symptoms. They work by promoting healing of the cells by stimulating the development of new myelin. Some patients respond better to these medications than others; the medications do not cure the disease, but can slow down its progression. Many patients go months or even years without symptoms, although sometimes this occurs on its own without the use of medication.
Patients with brain MS and brain lesions often continue to develop new brain lesions over time, even when symptoms are in remission. This sometimes causes symptoms to be worse than before when they do return. Not all patients experience this, and medications can make it less likely to occur.
There is no way to diagnose brain lesions without the help of trained medical professionals and specialized equipment. Doctors generally require several factors to be found before making a diagnosis of MS because there are a variety of things which can cause brain lesions. MS symptoms combined with lesions and results from two separate scans are usually indicative of the condition.
Anyone showing symptoms of MS should consult a doctor immediately. A general practitioner is usually the first point of contact, and if signs are indicative of MS, he or she will probably give a referral to a specialist. Testing can usually confirm brain lesions and MS, but sometimes testing must be done over time to secure a firm diagnosis.
