A View From An Actual Crohn's Patient

NO

Crohn's is not curable, doctors do not hold out nor hide the magic cure that some tout as available but "not yet approved" but will sell you the secret for a price. At present doctors can only help alleviate the symptoms, encourage remission and continue to research a cure. Pentasa is an Aminosalicylate (5-asa) including Sulfasalazine,dipentum and colazal. They are one way to help but there are other drug treatments.

Immune Modifiers such as Azathioprine (Imuran) and 6-MP (Purinethol) that help heal fistula's and maintain disease remission.

Corticosteroids like Prednisone and methylprednisolone non specifically suppress the immune system. Temporary but effective.

Since 1998 new biologic therapies have been approved. Infliximab (Remicade) is used for severe active Crohn's and is given by infusion. Very promising and only one of the newly researched biologic treatments.

As for the MS, many of the treatment for Crohn's are similar to the treatments for MS exacerbations (flare-ups) but with a few extra's.

Avonex (interferon beta-1a) Betaseron (interferon beta-1b)

glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) and Novantrone are all good reliable drugs used to treat inflamation in the central nervous system slowing or blocking nerve impulses.

These are many of the other drugs used. If Pentasa has not or is no longer offering relief, discuss your options with your doctors.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. While there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, there are a number of treatment options available that can both alleviate symptoms and slow down the progression of this debilitating disease. Treatment takes the form of medication, physical and alternative therapy.

There are three main types of immune-modifying drugs that are used to slow down the frequency of symptoms; interferon beta-1a (Avonex), interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone). They are commonly referred to as the ABCs and are most effective in patients with a mild to moderate form of relapsing remitting MS. These drugs are self-administered by injection either subcutaneously or into the muscle. Frequency of treatment varies from once daily to weekly, depending on the drug. There are a number of mild side effects including redness and itching at the injection site, fatigue and soreness.

Solu-Medrol and Decadron are powerful steroids which are administered by IV. They are used after an acute attack of symptoms and help to ease inflammation and relieve symptoms.

While physical therapy does not cure primary symptoms, it is helpful in treating secondary symptoms, such as muscle weakness, pain, balance, coordination issues and fatigue. Care is necessary to not overdo any form of exercise as this can increase core body temperature, causing fatigue and temporarily worsening of other symptoms. That being said, physical therapy is very beneficial for both body and mind.

Alternative treatments, such as supplements and herbal medication, are very popular among MS sufferers. In states where it is legal, medical marijuana is often prescribed.

While a multiple sclerosis diagnosis is devastating, with the correct medication and suitable physical therapy, the symptoms of the disease are manageable. Talk to your doctor and discuss all therapies before deciding on an effective MS plan that can help you live life to the fullest.

Immunosuppressive drugs, immunosuppressive agents, or immunosuppressants are drugs that inhibit or prevent activity of the immune system. They are used in immunosuppressive therapy to:

• Prevent the rejection of transplanted organs and tissues (e.g., bone marrow, heart, kidney, liver)
• Treat autoimmune diseases or diseases that are most likely of autoimmune origin (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Crohn's disease, pemphigus, and ulcerative colitis).
• Treat some other non-autoimmune inflammatory diseases (e.g., long term allergic asthma control).

These drugs are not without side-effects and risks. Because the majority of them act non-selectively, the immune system is less able to resist infections and the spread of malignant cells. There are also other side-effects, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, peptic ulcers, liver, and kidney injury. The immunosuppressive drugs also interact with other medicines and affect their metabolism and action. Actual or suspected immunosuppressive agents can be evaluated in terms of their effects on lymphocyte subpopulations in tissues using immunohistochemistry.[1]

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system).

MS; Demyelinating disease

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects woman more than men. The disorder most commonly begins between ages 20 and 40, but can be seen at any age.

MS is caused by damage to the myelin sheath, the protective covering that surrounds nerve cells. When this nerve covering is damaged, nerve impulses are slowed down or stopped.

MS is a progressive disease, meaning the nerve damage (neurodegeneration) gets worse over time. How quickly MS gets worse varies from person to person.

The nerve damage is caused by inflammation. Inflammation occurs when the body's own immune cells attack the nervous system. Repeated episodes of inflammation can occur along any area of the brain and spinal cord.

Researchers are not sure what triggers the inflammation. The most common theories point to a virus or genetic defect, or a combination of both.

MS is more likely to occur in northern Europe, the northern United States, southern Australia, and New Zealand than in other areas. Geographic studies indicate there may be an environmental factor involved.

People with a family history of MS and those who live in a geographical area with a higher incidence rate for MS have a higher risk of the disease.

Symptoms vary, because the location and severity of each attack can be different. Episodes can last for days, weeks, or months. These episodes alternate with periods of reduced or no symptoms (remissions).

Fever, hot baths, sun exposure, and stress can trigger or worsen attacks.

It is common for the disease to return (relapse). However, the disease may continue to get worse without periods of remission.

Because nerves in any part of the brain or spinal cord may be damaged, patients with multiple sclerosis can have symptoms in many parts of the body.

Muscle symptoms:

• Loss of balance
• Muscle spasms
• Numbness or abnormal sensation in any area
• Problems moving arms or legs
• Problems walking
• Problems with coordination and making small movements
• Tremor in one or more arms or legs
• Weakness in one or more arms or legs

Bowel and bladder symptoms:

• Constipationand stool leakage
• Difficulty beginning to urinate
• Frequent need to urinate
• Strong urge to urinate
• Urine leakage (incontinence)

Eye symptoms:

• Double vision
• Eye discomfort
• Uncontrollable rapid eye movements
• Vision loss(usually affects one eye at a time)

Numbness, tingling, or pain

• Facial pain
• Painful muscle spasms
• Tingling, crawling, or burning feeling in the arms and legs

Other brain and nerve symptoms:

• Decreased attention span, poor judgment, and memory loss
• Diffulty reasoning and solving problems
• Depression or feelings of sadness
• Dizziness and balance problems
• Hearing loss

Sexual symptoms:

• Problems with erections
• Problems with vaginal lubrication

Speech and swallowing symptoms:

• Slurred or difficult-to-understand speech
• Trouble chewing and swallowing

Fatigue is a common and bothersome symptoms as MS progresses. It is often worse in the late afternoon.

Symptoms of MS may mimic those of many other nervous system disorders. The disease is diagnosed by ruling out other conditions.

People who have a form of MS called relapsing-remitting may have a history of at least two attacks, separated by a period of reduced or no symptoms.

The health care provider may suspect MS if there are decreases in the function of two different parts of the central nervous system (such as abnormal reflexes) at two different times.

A neurological exam may show reduced nerve function in one area of the body, or spread over many parts of the body. This may include:

• Abnormal nerve reflexes
• Decreased ability to move a part of the body
• Decreased or abnormal sensation
• Other loss of nervous system functions

An eye examination may show:

• Abnormal pupil responses
• Changes in the visual fields or eye movements
• Decreased visual acuity
• Problems with the inside parts of the eye
• Rapid eye movements triggered when the eye moves

Tests to diagnose multiple sclerosis include:

• Lumbar puncture(spinal tap) for cerebrospinal fluid tests, including CSF oligoclonal banding
• MRI scan of the brain and MRI scan of the spine are important to help diagnose and follow MS
• Nerve function study (evoked potential test)

There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis at this time. However, there are therapies that may slow the disease. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and help you maintain a normal quality of life.

Medications used to slow the progression of multiple sclerosis are taken on a long-term basis, they include:

• Interferons (Avonex, Betaseron, or Rebif), glatiramer acetate (Copaxone), mitoxantrone (Novantrone), and natalizumab (Tysabri) are approved for treating MS
• Methotrexate, azathioprine (Imuran), intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) and cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) may also be used if the above drugs are not working well

Steroids may be used to decrease the severity of attacks.

Medications to control symptoms may include:

• Medicines to reduce muscle spasms such as Lioresal (Baclofen), tizanidine (Zanaflex), or a benzodiazepine
• Cholinergic medications to reduce urinary problems
• Antidepressants for mood or behavior symptoms
• Amantadine for fatigue

The following may help MS patients:

• Physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups
• Assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, bed lifts, shower chairs, walkers, and wall bars
• A planned exercise program early in the course of the disorder
• A healthy lifestyle, with good nutrition and enough rest and relaxation
• Avoiding fatigue, stress, temperature extremes, and illness

Household changes to ensure safety and ease in moving around the home are often needed.

For additional information, see multiple sclerosis resources.

The outcome varies, and is hard to predict. Although the disorder is chronicand incurable, life expectancy can be normal or almost normal. Most people with MS continue to walk and function at work with minimal disability for 20 or more years.

The following typically have the best outlook:

• Females
• People who were young (less than 30 years) when the disease started
• People with infrequent attacks
• People with a relapsing-remitting pattern
• People who have limited disease on imaging studies

The amount of disability and discomfort depends on:

• How often you have attacks
• How severe they are
• The part of the central nervous system that is affected by each attack

Most people return to normal or near-normal function between attacks. Slowly, there is greater loss of function with less improvement between attacks. Over time, many require a wheelchair to get around and have a more difficult tijme transferring out of the wheelchair.

Those with a support system are often able to remain in their home.

• Depression
• Difficulty swallowing
• Difficulty thinking
• Less and less ability to care for self
• Need for indwelling catheter
• Osteoporosis or thinning of the bones
• Pressure sores
• Side effects of medications used to treat the disorder
• Urinary tract infections

Call your health care provider if:

• You develop any symptoms of MS
• Symptoms get worse, even with treatment
• The condition deteriorates to the point where home care is no longer possible

Calabresi P. Multiple sclerosis and demyelinating conditions of the central nervous system. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 436.

Goodin DS, Cohen BA, O'Connor P, et al. Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Assessment: the use of natalizumab (Tysabri) for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (an evidence-based review): report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology. 2008:71(10):766-73.

Farinotti M, Simi S, Di Pietrantonj C, McDowell N, Brait L, Lupo D, Filippini G. Dietary interventions for multiple sclerosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jan 24;(1):CD004192.

Kappos L, Freedman MS, Polman CH, et al. Effect of early versus delayed interferon beta-1b treatment on disability after a first clinical event suggestive of multiple sclerosis: a 3-year follow-up analysis of the BENEFIT study. Lancet. 2007:370(9585):389-97.

Miller DH, Leary SM. Primary-progressive multiple sclerosis. Lancet Neurol. 2007;6:903-912.

don't know but i know that there are signs of multiple sclerosis anyway. eyes hurting, blurred vison and all sorts of other stuff...... you could try searching it on wikipedia found this by googling 'ms symptoms;:

Multiple Sclerosis

- commonly called the young person's disease because it frequently strikes adults in the prime of their lives between the ages of 20 and 40 - is difficult to diagnose. One of the only predictable things about MS is that the disease is totally unpredictable. Even when someone is diagnosed with the disease, there is no way to tell if or how the disease will progress. And it often begins differently in different individuals. In fact, newly diagnosed people are frequently unable to put their finger on the very first symptoms of the disease because many of the signs and symptoms of MS mimic other diseases or seem completely unconnected to each other. In retrospect, however, and after reviewing many, many cases of the chronic disease of the central nervous system, a number of signs and symptoms appear to be common in patients diagnosed with MS. These symptoms may appear in any order in an individual with the disease, and some individuals with the disease will never exhibit some of these signs or symptoms. Furthermore, the presence of the signs and symptoms mentioned here are not conclusive evidence of MS. All of these symptoms - by themselves or in combination with other symptoms - are also symptoms of other diseases and/or conditions. Only a trained physician or neurologist can make a diagnosis of MS conclusively - and then usually only after a period of recurrent or persistent symptoms, a series of different symptoms, and/or specific medical tests. This article is in no way intended to suggest a diagnosis of MS without expert medical advice. Having said that, signs and symptoms of MS may include: Tingling or numbness in one or more limbs of the body or in specific parts of the body. As mentioned above, this alone is not indicative of MS. There are many other disorders - like carpal tunnel syndrome, for example - that can be associated with tingling or numbness. However, many MS patients do report this symptom and it should be noted that the tingling or numbness can come and go. Difficulty balancing/dizziness. Likewise, dizziness or difficulty balancing can be a symptom of many conditions - such as an inner ear disorder - and does not by itself indicate MS. However, some MS patients report problems with balancing and periods of dizziness. Recurrent or steady pain in an area of the body. Many, many diseases and conditions generate pain in the body. Pain alone will never indicate the presence of MS. But some patients with MS do experience pain generated by no other known physical injury or cause. Confusion or impaired thinking or memory. Illnesses in general can cause somewhat impaired thinking. Serious conditions of many kinds can also generate these symptoms. But again, some patients with MS do experience impairment of their thinking capacities on occasion. Sensitivity to heat. Just because you feel uncomfortable when exposed to heat does not indicate MS. However, many individuals with the disease experience increased discomfort, feelings of illness, and an increase in other symptoms of the disease when they are exposed to heat - even normal heat that most other individuals can easily tolerate. Fatigue. There are many, many reasons that people experience fatigue and many illnesses or conditions that are accompanied by fatigue, as well. MS is only one such condition. Again, no one symptom can conclusively point to a diagnosis of MS, but many MS patients report feelings of extreme fatigue that may come and go. Impaired Vision. The same goes for impaired vision. If you're not seeing well, your eye doctor will want to rule out any other vision problems. Diabetes and other conditions that may affect the eyes must also be considered. Some patients with MS experience problems with their vision, while others do not. Spasticity or muscle cramps. A charliehorse or two in your leg doesn't indicate MS either. Many perfectly healthy people experience muscle cramps for various reasons. But patients with MS sometimes report problems with spasticity. Impairment of bladder or bowel function. Common infections or other serious illnesses can also manifest themselves in the bladder or bowel. However, some MS patients have difficulty with incontinence, frequency, and other bladder or bowel-related difficulties. Partial or total paralysis. Many people automatically associate a diagnosis of MS with partial or complete paralysis, though this is not the case. While some individuals will experience impaired mobility, the majority do not. MS runs the gamut - from mild, barely noticeable symptoms to more obvious symptoms like impaired mobility. This list is not all-conclusive. Nor is it meant to suggest that you or anyone you know who has or is experiencing one or more of these symptoms might have MS. Only a qualified doctor can make such a diagnosis. However, if you or a loved one is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it's probably time to make an appointment with your physician to determine the cause. And if three or more of these symptoms are present, it might be advisable to talk about the possibility of MS with your doctor. It is not known what causes MS.There are lots of theories.

Some suggestions are,an auto immune disease , a virus, genetics.

Basically you have to imagine the nerves in your body like there were electrical cables.the nerves are covered with an outside sheathing called mylen .with MS the mylen is destroyed leaving the nerves exposed.and like electric cables that are left exposed they begin to sort of short circuit.

WebMD has a pretty good explanation of how MS works also, this: MS == Multiple sclerosis (MS) usually affects woman more than men. The disorder most commonly begins between ages 20 and 40, but can strike at any age. The exact cause is not known, but MS is believed to result from damage to the myelin sheath, the protective material which surrounds nerve cells. It is a progressive disease, meaning the damage gets worse over time. Inflammation destroys the myelin, leaving multiple areas of scar tissue (sclerosis). The inflammation occurs when the body's own immune cells attack the nervous system. The inflammation causes nerve impulses to slow down or become blocked, leading to the symptoms of MS. Repeated episodes, or flare ups, of inflammation can occur along any area of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms vary because the location and extent of each attack varies. Usually episodes that last days, weeks, or months alternate with times of reduced or no symptoms (remission). Recurrence (relapse) is common although non-stop progression without periods of remission may also occur. Researchers are not sure what triggers an attack. Patients with MS typically have a higher number of immune cells than a healthy person, which suggests that an immune response might play a role. The most common theories point to a virus or genetic defect, or a combination of both. There also appears to be a genetic link to the disease. MS is more likely to occur in northern Europe, the northern United States, southern Australia, and New Zealand than in other areas. Geographic studies indicate there may be an environmental factor involved. People with a family history of MS and those who live in a geographical area with a higher incidence rate for MS have a higher risk of the disease. == * weakness of one or more extremities * paralysis of one or more extremities * tremor of one or more extremities * muscle spasticity (uncontrollable spasm of muscle groups) * muscle atrophy * movement, dysfunctional - slowly progressive; beginning in the legs * numbness or abnormal sensation in any area * tingling * facial pain * extremity pain * loss of vision -- usually affects one eye at a time * double vision * eye discomfort * uncontrollable rapid eye movements * eye symptoms worsen on movement of the eyes * decreased coordination * loss of balance * decreased ability to control small or intricate movements * walking/gait abnormalities * muscle spasms (especially in the legs) * dizziness * vertigo * urinary hesitancy, difficult to begin urinating * strong urge to urinate (urinary urgency) * frequent need to urinate (urinary frequency) * incontinence (leakage of urine, loss of control over urination) * decreased memory * decreased spontaneity * decreased judgment * loss of ability to think abstractly * loss of ability to generalize * depression * decreased attention span * slurred speech * difficulty speaking or understanding speech * fatigue, tired easily Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease: * constipation * hearing loss * positive Babinski's reflex Note: Symptoms may vary with each attack. They may last days to months, then reduce or disappear, then recur periodically. With each recurrence, the symptoms are different as new areas are affected. Fever can trigger or worsen attacks, as can hot baths, sun exposure, and stress. == Symptoms of MS may mimic many other neurologic disorders. Diagnosis is made by ruling out other conditions. A history of at least two attacks separated by a period of reduced or no symptoms may indicate one pattern of attack/remission seen in MS (known as relapsing-remitting pattern). If there are observable decreases in any functions of the central nervous system (such as abnormal reflexes), the diagnosis of MS may be suspected. Examination by the health care provider may show focal neurologic deficits (localized decreases in function). This may include decreased or abnormal sensation, decreased ability to move a part of the body, speech or vision changes, or other loss of neurologic functions. The type of neurologic deficits usually indicates the location of the damage to the nerves. Eye examination may show abnormal pupil responses, changes in the visual fields or eye movements, nystagmus (rapid eye movements) triggered by movement of the eye, decreased visual acuity, or abnormal findings on a fundoscopy (an examination of the internal structures of the eye). Tests that indicate or confirm multiple sclerosis include: * head MRIscan that showsscarring or a new lesion* spineMRIscan that showsscarring or a new lesion* lumbar puncture (spinal tap) * CSF oligoclonal banding * CSF IgG index == There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis at this time. However, there are promising therapies that may slow the disease. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and maintain a normal quality of life. Types of treatment include: * Immune modulators. Patients with a relapsing-remitting course of the disease are often placed on an immune modulating therapy. This requires injection under the skin or in the muscle once or several times a week. It may be in the form of interferon (such as Avonex, Betaseron, or Rebif) or another medicine called glatiramer acetate (Copaxone). They are all similar in their effectiveness and the decision on which to use depends on concerns about particular side effects. * Steroids. Steroids are given to decrease the severity of attacks when they occur. These shut the immune system down to stop cells from causing inflammation. * Lioresal (Baclofen), tizanidine (Zanaflex), or a benzodiazepine may be used to reduce muscle spasticity. * Cholinergic medications to reduce urinary problems. * Antidepressants for mood or behavior symptoms. * Amantadine for fatigue. * Physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups can help improve the person's outlook, reduce depression, maximize function, and improve coping skills. * Exercise. A planned exercise program early in the course of the disorder can help maintain muscle tone. A healthy lifestyle is encouraged, including good general nutrition. Adequate rest and relaxation can help maintain energy levels. Attempts should be made to avoid fatigue, stress, temperature extremes, and illness to reduce factors that may trigger an MS attack. == For additional information, see multiple sclerosis resources. == * progressive disability * urinary tract infections * side effects of medications used to treat the disorder == Call your health care provider if you develop any symptoms of MS, as he or she is the only one who can distinguish multiple sclerosis from other serious disorders such as stroke or infection. Call your health care provider if symptoms progressively worsen despite treatment. Call your health care provider if the condition deteriorates to the point where home care is no longer possible. == Hafler DA. Multiple sclerosis. J Clin Invest. 2004 Mar 15; 113(6): 788-794. Goetz, CG, ed. Multiple Sclerosis. In: Textbook of Clinical Neurology. 2nd ed. Saunders. Philadelphia, PA: 2003;1060-1076 National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Available at: . Accessed June 6, 2005