Multiple sclerosis is a frustrating disease because current treatments are few and currently there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but available medications can slow the course of the disease. Synthetic forms of interferon beta (a natural immunomodulator that regulates the immune response) reduce the frequency and severity of relapses and decrease the degree of disability over time.

Glatiramer acetate is a mixture of synthetic polymers that can act as a decoy for the immune system, diluting the attack on the myelin that covers the cells of the brain and spinal cord. For this reason, it can decrease the frequency of relapses, which in turn reduces the progression of the disease.

There are treatments for specific symptoms, such as steroids (usually given in high doses intravenously for 3-5 days), which can shorten the duration of an attack. Some medications can relieve spasticity, fatigue, and urination disorders.

People with MS often find that non-drug treatments such as regular exercise and adequate rest can help them maintain a more active life. Physical therapy and exercise can help strengthen weakened muscles and improve coordination. Occupational therapy can improve skills to teach ordinary people how to cope with multiple sclerosis with reduced ability to move, and speech therapy can improve difficulties speaking and swallowing.

Research advances can help people affected by multiple sclerosis and their families. Research is currently focused on ways to block specific immune cells that attack myelin and how to harness natural growth factors that can stimulate the replacement of tissue destroyed by disease. It also seeks to prevent the axonal degeneration that causes the progression of disability in advanced forms.

One of the pioneers in the nutritional treatment of Multiple Sclerosis is Dr. Roy Swank, Professor of Neurology at the University of Oregon School of Medicine.

The key nutritional recommendations, according to Dr. Swank, are: 1) saturated fat intake of no more than 10 grams per day. 2) A daily intake of 40 to 50 grams of polyunsaturated oils (margarines and hydrogenated oils are not allowed). 3) At least one tablespoon of cod liver oil daily. 4) Allow normal protein intake and 5) Fish consumption should be three or more times a week.

Another novelty in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis is the use of electromagnetic fields. This is very important to clarify that the electromagnetic fields used in this case are of low intensity, extremely low frequencies and carefully controlled. These applications are extracranial and are 20 minutes once a week. Results are variable and more research is needed to refine this form of treatment.

Hopefully medical science will soon find a definitive treatment for multiple sclerosis, so that this disabling disease is controlled from the beginning of its course.