Over 400,000 people every year are stricken with multiple sclerosis. It is a debilitating disease that strikes slightly more women than men. The typical age range for contracting MS is between the ages of 15 and 50. Presently there is no cure for this disease, so MS prevention is vital.

The reason why this disease is so debilitating is because it damages the myelin covering that protects the nerves. This damage causes a disruption in the flow of nerve impulses. The consequences can be either mild or life-threatening.

For example, milder symptoms include extreme fatigue and visual disturbances. Moderate symptoms would include numbness in the extremities. However, life-threatening consequences will include breathing and spinal cord problems. The main cause of this disruption is inflammation. It eventually damages the nerve impulses because of the lesions that will not heal.

The lesions eventually disrupt the entire nerve pathway leaving the affected body part unable to function properly. If the lungs are affected the patient can end up not being able to breathe on their own. Alternatively, if the nerves that control bladder do not work properly incontinence may develop.

Some researchers believe that MS is an autoimmune disorder. Other researchers believe the disease stems from environmental exposure to chemicals and pesticides. Regardless of the cause, is vital for folks to understand how to avoid the disease.

People who live further away from the equator seem to contract the disease more frequently than those who do not. For this reason, some studies indicate that a vitamin D deficiency may be part of the problem. Therefore, taking the D supplements should be part of a sound prevention program.

Avoiding strong chemicals is another way to prevent getting this disease. Rather than using man-made products to clean the house tried to use natural products and bleach instead. In addition, avoid breathing gasoline fumes while refueling a vehicle.

When working outdoors in the garden tried to use natural insect repellents instead of toxic insecticides. Or, at the very least wear a mask and some gloves when working with these kinds of products. There are many natural alternatives that are not only cheaper but also healthier.

One more way to prevent getting this type of problem is to have proper nutrition. Proper nutrition will give the body all the ammunition it needs to repel such diseases as multiple sclerosis. Seniors will have different nutritional requirements when compared to young people, so they must discuss supplementation with their physician.

Omega-3 fatty acids and soy lecithin can also help to protect the nervous system. Some of the best sources for omega-3 include freshwater fish, flaxseed and walnuts. The best sources for soy lecithin are granules that can be found at the local health food store.

Truly, multiple sclerosis is a perplexing disease for both doctor and patient because the symptoms can mimic many other diseases. To make a proper diagnosis doctors will usually schedule an MRI to look for lesions. Once a diagnosis is confirmed the only treatment the doctor can offer is to control whatever symptoms the patient is having. This is why MS prevention is so important.