Canada does have a couple of dubious honours when it comes to international rankings, one of which is having the highest rate of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in the world by a shocking margin.
There is no solid, irrefutable answer as to why that is the case. Finding a reason is as elusive as pinning down the exact nature of the disease. For as much as we do know, the true root is yet unknown. The extent of our knowledge is that MS is an autoimmune condition wherein the immune system attacks nerves’ myelin sheaths. This sheath is effectively their skin, a protective outer layer.
Symptoms vary and shift depending on the stage of the disease and what nerves it affects, but one can expect them in range from change in sensation and sensitivity, loss of coordination, muscle problems — weakness, spasms, reflex deterioration — difficulty balancing, swallowing, or speaking, sudden changes in the senses, general fatigue and pain, altered bowel or bladder function, mood shifts, and many more. Regardless of the symptom or to what degree, MS is a debilitating, destructive illness that can follow a relapse-remission or be completely progressive. There is no known cure.
Talking about MS usually involves speaking in terms of inevitability. There are many options for mitigating symptoms and reducing the chance of relapsing.
Combining conventional and naturopathic treatments like IV therapy, supplements, and careful, calculated changes to diet and lifestyle can be powerful. Something even more interesting, however, is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).
HBOT delivers pure oxygen at a pressure higher than we normally experience standing on solid ground. By doing this, the body ends up completely saturated in oxygen. Instead of relying on red blood cells carrying oxygen around, the oxygen actually dissolves in the liquid portion of blood, reaching parts of the body that it does not normally.
The consequences are myriad, and some of them help with conditions like MS directly. For example, HBOT reduces inflammation, mobilizes stem cells, and creates something of a protective effect. Combining these along with the other, perhaps more indirect effects, HBOT can have a significant impact on symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis.
Indeed, research from around the world shows how effective HBOT is in this particular area, among others. HBOT definitely is not a cure. Combined with conventional and other treatments, however, it improves symptoms of speech, cognition, gait, bladder control, vision, and others. It even aids in reducing the possibility of relapse.
There is still a lot we don’t know about MS. Some would probably say there’s more we don’t know than do know. We have to go with what we know works. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy works. After about 40 treatments — a two month course — most people notice tangible results, but some may need more or less depending on their exact situation and needs
There are options to improve quality of life when dealing with MS. One of those options is proven, non-invasive, and has many benefits besides.
Contact us to find out how we can best help you or your loved one.
It’s important to remember the HBOT is a medical procedure, so it carries benefits and risks. That’s why the Nardella Clinic screens every potential HBOT patient to ensure the best safety and effectiveness.
