MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the nervous system. It appears to be an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the fatty layer (myelin sheath) around nerve cells. The trigger or cause of this attack of our own immune system on the nerve cells is unknown. Current evidence suggests that an unknown infectious agent triggers the abnormal immune response in a genetically susceptible host. The illness usually strikes between age 20 to 40 and rarely before age 15 or after age 50. It afflicts women nearly twice as frequently as men. It is more common in high latitude areas and becomes increasingly uncommon as the equator is approached.
The illness has two common patterns of progression. In the relapsing-remitting pattern, periods of illness alternate with periods of relative wellness. In the chronic progressive pattern, the relentless attack on the myelin sheaths causes progressive loss of nerve function. Symptoms include numbness, weakness, loss of vision, double vision, loss of balance, tremor, spasticity, loss of bladder control, slurred speech and numerous other neurologic deficits. The chronic progressive form leads to early disability and death.
Standard treatments attempt to modulate the immune system so it will not attack the nerve cell sheaths. Therapies include ACTH, methylprednisolone, beta-interferon, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide and Copaxone. These all are of limited effectiveness and most have significant toxicity.
Tests to rule out contributing factors can include folic acid, Vitamin B-12, methylmalonic acid, Vitamin D, blood lead levels, Lyme disease, tests for celiac disease, food allergy testing, and urinary heavy metal challenge testing. If these are normal, then a variety of alternative therapies can be tried, although research evidence for effectiveness is relatively scant.
As always in any chronic degenerative illness, a healthy diet is essential. Dr. Swank’s diet low in saturated fat, red meat, and unsaturated fat has been used for decades with good results by many. Eating a diet high in whole, organic and raw fruits and vegetables is important. Improper digestive function may need evaluation with a Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis. If indicated, digestive enzymes may be needed. Overgrowth of yeast or abnormal bacteria must be reduced. Support of liver detoxification is important to lower the exposure of the nervous system to toxins
Supplementation with cod liver oil and omega-3 fish oil will boost Vitamin D levels and lower inflammation of the nerve cells. A urinary test called Organic Acids can indicate if high dose supplementation with B vitamins and other nutrients is indicated.
A wide variety of neurotoxic substances should be avoided. Especially important to avoid is mercury. Dental amalgam fillings, which are over 50% mercury, may need to be removed. Vaccines with thimerosol (a mercury compound to inhibit bacterial growth) should be avoided. Fish should be eaten sparingly to minimize exposure to mercury. Organophosphate insecticides and herbicides should not be used in the home or workplace.
Although multiple sclerosis has no cure, many people live long and productive lives with minimal symptoms. A trial of alternative approaches can be utilized along with conventional therapy to see if a particular alternative has a positive impact on this disease.
Daniel Blodgett MD