Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects over 400,000 Americans in US alone. Although the exact cause of MS is unknown, researchers are able to determine the possible factors that will eventually lead them to discover the root cause.
Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease that often results to damage of the myelin sheaths covering the nerve cells. The scarring of the nerve cells will affect the ability of the nerve fibers to communicate throughout the body.
MS is a severely debilitating disease that can damage 12 cranial nerves and 31 pairs of spinal nerves. Multiple sclerosis’ warning signs include vision loss, poor motor skills, bowel and bladder problems and erectile dysfunction (ED) in men.
Effects of Multiple Sclerosis in Men’ s Health
Both MS and ED predispose men to erection problems. It often creates broken relationships including psychological issues.
Serious effects of multiple sclerosis in men can also lead to poor libido and sexual disability. Oftentimes, multiple sclerosis and erectile dysfunction can affect overall health among several men.
Here are some of the possible causes of MS according to scientific research:
Environmental Factors
Multiple sclerosis is commonly found in people living in temperate areas. This disease is widespread in countries like Scotland, Scandinavia and all through Northern Europe. In the United States, multiple sclerosis occurs more frequently in Caucasians than other ethnic groups.
Recent studies show that people born in areas with high prevalence of MS have lower chances of multiple sclerosis when moving to tropical regions before puberty.
Some scientists also believe that sunlight exposure plays a critical role in MS development. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), people residing near the equator have higher exposure to sunlight. Thus, their bodies are producing substantial amount of Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is one of the fat-soluble vitamins responsible for calcium absorption in the intestines. This vitamin also enhances the immune system and helps fight autoimmune diseases like MS.
Genetic History
There are several links between genetic history and multiple sclerosis. Although, scientists haven’t yet include MS as a genetic disease. According to the NMSS, first-degree generations have a higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis.
Some experts believe that genetic history affect other factors including environmental agents. As a result, triggers an autoimmune response.
Viral Infection
Several schools found viral infection as one of the possible causes of multiple sclerosis. Men with MS often suffer from viral infections in the past. However, there is no definite link between a specific virus and multiple sclerosis.
Viral infection is known to cause demyelinating diseases in animals and humans. Most viruses have latency period where symptoms appear late. Therefore, men should consult a physician regarding treatments for multiple sclerosis and erectile dysfunction.
