Signs of Multiple Sclerosis may first present as frequent complaints in 3 areas

Postdoctoral researcher Nika Shakiba at the University of British Columbia has been studying the early warning signs of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This research could lead to earlier detection and intervention, transforming the lives of those affected by the debilitating disease.

The story behind this research is personal. The author's mother, like many others, was shuffled from doctor to doctor for years, seeking answers for her symptoms such as exhaustion, unexplained crying, and eye problems. Unfortunately, it wasn't until she was diagnosed with MS when the author was in elementary school that a name was given to the issues she was experiencing.

Research has shown that MS starts sooner than previously believed, and there are three common issues patients experience that could help identify the disease. These include fatigue, anxiety, and pain. These common issues are often ignored or mistaken for other conditions due to their vagueness.

Shakiba's research found significant differences between the gut microbes of patients with MS and those without the disease. This discovery could pave the way for new diagnostic tests and treatments for MS.

The study went further back into patient history, revealing interesting patterns. Three to five years before the recognized symptom onset, there was an increase in emergency medicine and radiology visits. Fifteen years before, there was an increase in visits to general practice physicians for symptoms like fatigue, pain, anxiety, dizziness, and depression. Eight to nine years before, there was an increase in visits to neurologists and ophthalmologists due to issues like blurry vision or eye pain. One year before, there was a peak in doctors' visits, particularly to neurology, emergency medicine, and radiology. Twelve years before, there was an increase in visits to a psychiatrist.

Early detection and treatment of MS can be aided by these diagnostic tests and patient history. Research also suggests ways to support the body against the ravages of MS, including supplements and dietary interventions. Vitamin D, Omega 3's, melatonin, antioxidants (CoQ10, vitamin E, quercetin, and lutein-zeaxanthin), an acid found in fruit peel, and N-acetylglucosamine have been researched for their potential positive impacts on MS.

One such intervention is the Wahls Protocol, a diet and lifestyle intervention created by Dr. Terry Wahls, a physician and patient with progressive MS. She credits this approach with helping her leave her wheelchair behind.

For patients eventually diagnosed with MS, there was a steady buildup of engagement with healthcare providers. This research could help doctors recognise early warning signs, leading to earlier detection and intervention, and ultimately, a better quality of life for those affected by MS.