Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It happens when the body's own defence system starts to attack a layer that protects the nerves, called myelin.

This "protective covering" is essential for signals from the brain to reach the rest of the body correctly. When it is damaged, these signals become slower or even fail, and this causes the disease's symptoms.

When to suspect multiple sclerosis

The disease usually appears more in young adults, mainly between 20 and 40 years of age, and is more common in women.

The symptoms can vary greatly, but some signs stand out:

  • Blurred vision or loss of vision in one eye

  • Tingling or numbness in the body

  • Muscle weakness

  • Difficulty walking or maintaining balance

  • Dizziness

  • Changes in urination

  • Forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating

  • Intense tiredness (fatigue)

An important point: these symptoms can come and go. The person improves for a time and then worsens again, which can be confusing and delay diagnosis.

How diagnosis is made

There is no single test that confirms multiple sclerosis. The diagnosis is made by gathering information:

  • What the person is feeling

  • The physical examination performed by the doctor

  • Complementary tests

The main test is magnetic resonance imaging, which can show small lesions in the brain and spinal cord.

In some cases, an examination of cerebrospinal fluid (a fluid that surrounds the brain) may also be necessary, collected by lumbar puncture.

Today, with more up-to-date criteria, it is possible to diagnose the disease earlier, which makes a big difference in treatment.

Treatment of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis has no cure, but it has treatment and it has evolved greatly in recent years.

The aim is to control the disease and prevent it from progressing.

1. Treatment of relapses

When there is worsening of symptoms (the so-called "relapses"), corticosteroids are usually used to reduce inflammation.

2. Treatments for disease control

These are medications that help reduce the activity of the immune system, reducing new lesions.

There are several options today, including more modern and effective medicines.

3. Symptom treatment

It is also essential to care for day-to-day symptoms, such as:

  • Pain

  • Muscle stiffness

  • Mood changes

  • Difficulty moving

Fatigue: one of the most common (and most overlooked) symptoms

Tiredness in multiple sclerosis is not ordinary tiredness.

It can:

  • Appear even after rest

  • Worsen throughout the day

  • Affect both the body and the mind

Many people report that this is the symptom that most impacts daily life.

How to relieve tiredness

There is no single solution, but some strategies help a lot:

In daily life

  • Organise your routine and take breaks

  • Avoid excessive heat (heat can worsen symptoms)

  • Respect your body's limits

Important habits

  • Practice light to moderate physical activity

  • Sleep well

  • Maintain balanced nutrition

Medical follow-up

  • Adjust medications, if necessary

  • Treat anxiety, depression or sleep problems

Why early diagnosis is so important

The earlier multiple sclerosis is identified and treated, the greater the chances of preventing disease progression and preserving quality of life.

This content is for informational purposes and does not replace a medical consultation.
If you experience neurological symptoms or notice something different in your body, seek medical evaluation for appropriate investigation.

Dr Rebeca Soares Andrade

CRM-GO 39335