Multiple Sclerosis Communication Challenges

Multiple Sclerosis Communication Challenges

Being able to move and act as we wish is a great freedom. However, what if you were uncertain that you would awaken each morning, unsure of your ability to perform daily routines, or unable to attend work or school because of muscle weakness or incapacity or an inability to use one of your senses, particularly your eyesight? You might then understand what challenges a patient with MS frequently faces. The purpose of this Assignment is for you to apply your knowledge of neuroanatomy to MS.

This discussion is intended to allow you to show evidence that you have achieved the following Learning Outcomes:

CLO2: Analyze physiology of communication (ILO3, PLO3)

CLO3: Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of communication to diagnose and treat patients with communication disorders (ILO3, PLO3)

Directions

1. Describe the types and symptoms of MS.
2. Explain what may cause MS and what exacerbates the debilitating symptoms.
3. Discuss the possibility of a cure or management approach that could enable a patient to recover functions.
4. Describe the incidence and prevalence of MS in the United States.

Your short discussion of approximately 500 words should use double spacing, 1-inch margins, and 12-point font. Spelling, grammar, and APA style are important. INCLUDE 10 REFERENCES

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APA

Multiple Sclerosis Communication Challenges

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), particularly the brain and spinal cord. MS is classified as an autoimmune demyelinating disorder in which the immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath that surrounds nerve fibers. This results in disrupted communication between the brain and the rest of the body, ultimately causing degeneration of nerves themselves (Goldenberg, 2012; Hauser & Cree, 2020).

There are four major types of MS: Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS), the most common form; Primary Progressive MS (PPMS); Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS); and Progressive-Relapsing MS (PRMS). Symptoms vary but typically include muscle weakness, fatigue, visual disturbances, numbness, difficulty with coordination and balance, spasticity, and speech and swallowing difficulties (Compston & Coles, 2008; National MS Society, 2023). Communication can be affected by damage to the nerves responsible for motor control of speech and vocal function, leading to dysarthria or dysphonia (Yorkston et al., 2010).

The cause of MS is still unclear, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers such as viral infections, vitamin D deficiency, and smoking (Ascherio & Munger, 2007). Triggers that exacerbate symptoms, known as relapses or flare-ups, include stress, heat, infections, and fatigue (Miller et al., 2012). These stressors may increase inflammation or disrupt nerve conduction, worsening the patient’s neurological condition.

While there is currently no cure for MS, several disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have shown efficacy in slowing progression, reducing relapses, and managing symptoms. Medications like interferon-beta, glatiramer acetate, and monoclonal antibodies such as…