Cure for multiple sclerosis or MS is yet to be found. But there are several treatment options available for MS. The treatment plans for MS mainly focus on preventing the condition from progressing and helping the patients to manage symptoms. The progressions of MS and its symptoms can vary from person to person. Therefore, the treatment plan prescribed will also be different for each patient.

Here are some of the different treatment options prescribed for MS.

1. Disease-modifying Medications
If the patient suffers from relapsing-remitting MS, the first line of treatment in such cases is a disease-modifying medications. These meds prevent flare-ups of the condition and stop the disease from progressing. These medications ensure that myelin, which is the protective layer that covers the nerves, is not attacked by the immune system. Some of these medications are given as injections administered into the skin or the muscle. These injections can make your skin itchy, dimply, or cause redness.

2. Corticosteroids
Methylprednisolone and prednisone are corticosteroids that can be prescribed to fight nerve inflammation caused due to the condition. However, there are several side effects caused due to these medications and they include high blood pressure, increase in blood glucose level, retention of fluid in the body, and mood swings.

3. Plasmapheresis or Plasma Exchange
In this treatment, the plasma is extracted and separated from the blood cells. Then, albumin, a protein solution, is mixed with the blood cells which are again put back into the body. This type of treatment can be prescribed if any newly developed symptoms are severe or if the steroids haven’t worked.

4. Stem Cells
This treatment has shown some good results in treating the damage caused to the nerves by MS. A review showed that mesenchymal stem cell or MSC therapy was able to repair the damage caused to the central nervous system of patients suffering from MS. Although the process of how stem cells repair the damages is yet to be understood, more and more research is going on to study the benefits of stem cell therapy.

5. Natural Treatment Options
In addition to the medicines, several natural ways can help in getting relief from the symptoms, like a better meal plan. Although any specific mealm plan for MS is yet to be found out, having a balanced and healthy nutrition regime can help. Besides, staying physically active is also important for MS patients. Regular exercise can strengthen the muscle, improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and enhance cognitive function. For MS patients, starting with basic stretching is recommended. Once you grow comfortable with stretching exercises, more rigorous physical activities such as walking, dancing, water workouts, and swimming can be tried.