what type of disorder is MS
degenerative of the CNS
how is MS characterized
disseminated demyelination of nerve fibers of brain and spinal cord
when do the symptoms occur
30-35; more progressive when diagnosed at age 50 or older
what are the 3 pathologic processes that characterize MS
chronic inflammation; demyelination; gliosis (scarring) in the CNS
is MS reversible
as the inflammation continues, myelin loses ability to regenerate
first symptoms of MS
blurred vision, double vision; red-green color distortion; blindness in one eye
common manifestations of MS
motor, sensory, cerebellar, and emotional problems
motor manifestations of MS
weakness or paralysis of limbs (legs, arms), trunk, and head; spasticity (spasms) of muscles; scanning speech
sensory manifestations of MS
numbness and tingling; pain, decreased hearing; vertigo and tinnitus; chronic neuropathic pain
cerebellar manifestations of MS
nystagmus, ataxia, dysarthria, dysphagia
what are some affected bowel and bladder functions from MS?
constipations; variable urinary problems- spastic and flaccid bladder
what is needed for a diagnosis of MS
evidence of at least 2 inflammatory demyelinating lesions in at least 2 different locations within CNS
how does exercise help a patient diagnosed with MS
decreases spasticity; increases coordination; retrains unaffected muscles to act for impaired ones
priority problems for MS patients
impaired physical mobility; difficulty coping; urinary retention; lack of knowledge
planning for MS
maximize neuromuscular function; maintain independence; manage fatigue; optimize psychosocial
nursing implementations for MS
help patient identify triggers and develop ways to avoid them or decrease their effects; during acute exacerbation, prevent complications of immobility; focus teaching on building general resistance to illness (avoid fatigue, extremes of hot and cold, exposure to infection)
