Unfortunately, Jamal’s doctors never realized they were looking at symptoms of MS.
A FEW FACTS ABOUT MS
Most people with MS experience their first symptoms between the ages of 15 and 50.
According to MASA (Multiple Sclerosis Association of America) as of 2019, there are currently about one million people living with MS in the United States.
More women are diagnosed with MS than men. African Americans who develop MS have a later-age onset of the disease than Caucasians and are more likely to develop mobility problems.
Multiple sclerosis in African Americans progresses much faster than in Caucasian patients, new research reports.
Studies indicate MS in African-American men is a predictor for more severe forms of MS.
WHAT IS MS?
Multiple Sclerosis is a progressive, immune-mediated disorder. That means the system designed to keep your body healthy mistakenly attacks parts of your body that are vital to everyday function. The protective coverings of nerve cells are damaged, which leads to diminished function in the brain and spinal cord. MS is a disease with unpredictable symptoms that can vary in intensity. While some people only experience fatigue and numbness, severe cases of MS can cause paralysis, vision loss, and diminished brain function.
Common early signs of multiple sclerosis (MS) include:
• vision problems.
• tingling and numbness.
• pains and spasms.
• weakness or fatigue.
• balance problems or dizziness.
• bladder issues.
• sexual dysfunction.
• cognitive problems.
HOW IS MS DIAGNOSED?
A doctor, most likely a neurologist, will perform several tests to look for damage to the central nervous system.
A neurological exam to check for impaired nerve function. An eye exam to evaluate your vision and check for eye diseases. A MRI to create cross-sectional images of the brain and spinal cord. A spinal tap to remove a sample of fluid circulating around your brain and spinal cord.