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Autoimmune diseases

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Autoimmune diseases

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune, chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. The word sclerosis means scarring. “Scars appear on nerves,” meaning they can no longer work properly. MS mostly occurs in young people (between the ages of 20 and 40), and is twice as common in women as in men.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)  

causes

The exact mechanism of how chronic fatigue syndrome develops has so far only been partially understood. The disease begins with an infection - usually in full health. 

Possible triggers can be:
 

⎯⎯•  Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and other herpes viruses 

⎯⎯•  Dengue viruses

⎯⎯•  Coxsackie viruses

⎯⎯•  Influenza

⎯⎯•  Borrelia 

⎯⎯•  Bacteria (Legionella, Coxial)

 

There are a number of proven connections that suggest that CFS is an autoimmune disease in at least some patients.

 

Most people with chronic fatigue syndrome are highly productive until the disease occurs. As a rule, the disorder occurs suddenly and often after a stressful event. 

These risk factors include:

⎯⎯•   Immune defects

⎯⎯•   Other cases in the family

⎯⎯•   Vulnerable phase with physical or psychological stress

Autoimmune diseases

Causes of MS

Causes of MS

The cause of MS is still unknown. However, most doctors believe those affected may have been exposed to a virus or unknown substance at a young age. This exposure may have caused the immune system to attack the body's own tissue, triggering an autoimmune reaction. However, the exact connection is not yet known. It is further believed that a combination of genetic, environmental and immunological factors contribute to this condition. There are some theories that point to specific causes:

Genetic predisposition

There is evidence that MS has a genetic component. People with a family member who has MS are at higher risk of developing the disease themselves.

Environmental influences

Certain environmental and geographical conditions can also influence the risk of MS. The closer a person grows up to the equator, the lower their risk of MS. The risk increases further south and north. Northern Europe and North America have the highest incidence rates. A vitamin D deficiency due to too little sunlight may play a role. In addition, among other things, Viral infections (e.g. caused by measles viruses, herpes viruses or Epstein-Barr viruses), Lyme disease and smoking are discussed. 

It is important to note that autoimmune diseases can vary widely and not all of these factors play a role in every case. The exact cause can vary from disease to disease.

Environmental factors as triggers

Chronic inflammation has been increasing worldwide for decades, and the causes are diverse. Environmental toxins, which are ubiquitous, especially in industrialized countries, play an important role.

New chemicals that are not beneficial to human health have found their way into our daily lifestyle. They can be found in household cleaning products, personal care products, cosmetics, textiles, indoor pollution, air pollution and, above all, in food.

 

Depending on the individual's ability to detoxify, these chemicals accumulate in different tissues and organs. This can lead to numerous health problems, including eye disease, heart problems, kidney and thyroid disease, and neurological disorders.

Clinical pictures and effects

rheumatism

Primary chronic inflammation develop gradually and manifest themselves through slow or intermittent symptoms. The duration of an inflammatory attack often lasts longer than four weeks and complete healing is usually not possible. Examples of primary chronic inflammation are diseases such as type 1 diabetes or autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis or Crohn's disease, in which the symptoms gradually progress.

A variety of diseases can be caused by chronic inflammation.

We differentiate between primary-chronic inflammation and secondary-chronic inflammation:

Symptoms of MS

Because MS attacks different nerves, patients' symptoms vary. The pattern in which symptoms appear and subside also varies. 

Early symptoms and signs of illness that occur particularly frequently in MS are:

⎯⎯• Spastic paralysis symptoms 

⎯⎯• Visual problems with blurred or foggy vision as an expression of inflammation of the optic nerves (optic neuritis)

⎯⎯• Sensation disorders of the skin (“sensitivity disorders”), usually in the form of tingling, (painful) sensations or a feeling of numbness

⎯⎯• Uncertainty when walking or grasping

⎯⎯• Double vision 

⎯⎯• Bladder disorders 

⎯⎯•  “Slurred” speech

 

Multiple sclerosis can also cause numerous other symptoms, which can occur individually or in combination. These later symptoms of MS are:

⎯⎯• Spastic paralysis symptoms 

⎯⎯• Problems controlling the urge to urinate or defecate 

⎯⎯• Difficulty with balance and walking

⎯⎯• Fatigue and feeling weak

⎯⎯• Slow, slurred speech

⎯⎯• Depressive moods and depression

⎯⎯• Limitations in attention, memory and concentration.

⎯⎯• Pain

⎯⎯• Dizziness

⎯⎯• Sexual dysfunctions
 

Pains

swelling

Inflammation often leads to swelling and can cause tissue damage.

Redness

Inflamed areas may be red and warmer than the surrounding skin.

Stiffness

Joints can become stiff and less mobile when affected by inflammation.

exhaustion

Chronic inflammation can cause general tiredness and fatigue.

Fever

An increased body temperature can indicate inflammation, although this is not always the case.

weight loss

For some people, chronic inflammation can lead to unwanted weight loss.

Organ change

Depending on the area affected, chronic inflammation can lead to permanent organ damage.

anamnese

The detailed medical history survey serves to collect information about symptoms, previous history and possible risk factors.

Physical examination

A thorough physical examination may reveal evidence of inflammation, such as swelling, redness, pain, or limited mobility.

Laboratory tests

In laboratory tests, doctors use special blood tests to determine whether there is inflammation in the body. Various markers are examined here:

 

  • C-reactive protein (CRP): This is where the biomarker CRP is determined in the blood, which is often used to assess inflammation in the body.

 

  • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): The ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle in the blood. This value is often used to detect inflammation or other diseases in the body.

 

  • Interleukins 1, 6 and 8: The values provide information about the presence of inflammatory messengers called interleukins, which are crucial in the body's immune response to infections and inflammation. 

 

  • Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α): This test examines TNF-α in the blood, a protein that is involved in inflammatory processes. 

Imaging procedures

Depending on whether a particular inflammation is suspected, an imaging test such as X-rays, CT scans or MRI scans may be required to examine the affected areas in more detail.

biopsy

In some cases, a tissue biopsy may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. This involves taking a small sample of tissue and examining it under a microscope.

Endoscopy

If there is inflammation in the digestive tract, an endoscopy can be performed to more accurately assess the condition of the mucous membrane.

Diagnostics for chronic diseases

Chronic inflammatory diseases often affect more than just one organ system. The diagnosis of chronic inflammation can be complex and depends on the type of inflammation and the patient's individual circumstances. 

At ELLANN® we work together with specialized doctors on an interdisciplinary basis, because thorough diagnostics are essential for optimal therapy planning.

 

Below are some common diagnostic procedures for chronic inflammation:

Diagnostics for chronic diseases

Chronic inflammatory diseases often affect more than just one organ system. The diagnosis of chronic inflammation can be complex and depends on the type of inflammation and the patient's individual circumstances. 

At ELLANN® we work together with specialized doctors on an interdisciplinary basis, because thorough diagnostics are essential for optimal therapy planning.

 

Below are some common diagnostic procedures for chronic inflammation:

anamnese

The detailed medical history survey serves to collect information about symptoms, previous history and possible risk factors.

Physical examination

A thorough physical examination may reveal evidence of inflammation, such as swelling, redness, pain, or limited mobility.

Laboratory tests

In laboratory tests, doctors use special blood tests to determine whether there is inflammation in the body. Various markers are examined here:

 

  • C-reactive protein (CRP): This is where the biomarker CRP is determined in the blood, which is often used to assess inflammation in the body.

 

  • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): The ESR measures how quickly red blood cells settle in the blood. This value is often used to detect inflammation or other diseases in the body.

 

  • Interleukins 1, 6 and 8: The values provide information about the presence of inflammatory messengers called interleukins, which are crucial in the body's immune response to infections and inflammation. 

 

  • Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α): This test examines TNF-α in the blood, a protein that is involved in inflammatory processes. 

Imaging procedures

Depending on whether a particular inflammation is suspected, an imaging test such as X-rays, CT scans or MRI scans may be required to examine the affected areas in more detail.

biopsy

In some cases, a tissue biopsy may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. This involves taking a small sample of tissue and examining it under a microscope.

Endoscopy

If there is inflammation in the digestive tract, an endoscopy can be performed to more accurately assess the condition of the mucous membrane.

Treatment options for MS

There are various treatment options for MS, which can vary depending on the course of the disease, severity and individual needs. 

Drug therapies

There are several medications used to treat MS, aimed at modifying the course of the disease, reducing inflammation, and relieving symptoms. These include immunomodulators, immunosuppressants, steroids and newer medications such as monoclonal antibodies.

Physiotherapy and rehabilitation

These therapies can help improve physical functionality, manage symptoms, and increase quality of life. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and other rehabilitation measures.

Supportive therapies

This includes symptom relief measures such as pain management, nutritional advice, psychological support and counseling.

Lifestyle adjustments

A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise and stress management can have a positive influence on the course of the disease.

It is important that the treatment of MS is individualized and carried out in consultation with a doctor or neurologist. New treatment options and research results can further develop therapy options, so it is advisable to regularly keep yourself informed about current developments.

INUSpheresis®

INUSpheresis

INUSpherese® as an accompanying therapy option for MS

There is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis, only options to alleviate the symptoms. If symptoms worsen acutely during standard drug therapy, more intensive treatment and the use of additional procedures may be helpful.

INUSpherese® therapy shows promising results in some MS patients by effectively filtering known factors such as heavy metals and other environmental toxins, inflammatory mediators, autoimmune antibodies, pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune complexes from the blood. 

This treatment aims to reduce harmful substances, improve blood flow in small blood vessels and ensure that the body receives sufficient oxygen. This is intended to slow down damage that leads to deterioration in the course of the disease.

Our medical team at ELLANN® advises patients with MS and their relatives individually on the available treatment options and provides information on whether INUSpheresis® is indicated as an accompanying therapy procedure to alleviate symptoms. Please arrange a consultation appointment.

Blood washing, apheresis

Various studies have already been carried out on the effectiveness of INUSpherese®. These show promising results in the treatment of various diseases such asUlcerative colitis,rheumatoid arthritis,Polyneuropathy,Crohn's disease. We have put together some interesting studies for you here.

Study situation

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  • ⎯⎯•  Allergies

    ⎯⎯•  Lyme disease

    ⎯⎯•  Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

    ⎯⎯•  Chronic hepatitis C

    ⎯⎯•  Hashimoto

    ⎯⎯•  Hyperlipidemia

    ⎯⎯•  Crohn's disease

    ⎯⎯•  multiple sclerosis

    ⎯⎯•  Multiple Chemical Hyper-

                sensitivity syndrome (MCS)

    ⎯⎯•  Parkinson's

    ⎯⎯•  Post-COVID syndrome

    ⎯⎯•  Post-vac syndrome

    ⎯⎯•  Rheumatism (chronic inflammatory)

    ⎯⎯•  Heavy metal poisoning

    ⎯⎯•  and more

  • INUSpheresis® was developed to remove a variety of disease-promoting substances and toxic substances from the blood. These include environmental toxins, heavy metals, allergens, metabolic products, inflammatory messengers, infection toxins and harmful proteins. Specially developed filters make it possible to specifically filter out these pollutants while preserving healthy components of the blood. INUSpherese® does not affect your vaccination protection because antibodies and immune cells that are responsible for your vaccination protection are preserved. This makes INUSpheresis® an extremely effective method for cleaning blood plasma and supporting general well-being and health.

  • INUSpheresis® is not a conventional blood wash or plasma exchange method. It is also not dialysis, in which urinary substances are filtered out. INUSpheresis® is characterized by the targeted removal of harmful substances, while essential and healthy components of your blood remain untouched. This includes vital electrolytes, proteins, nutrients, blood cells and antibodies. The use of specially developed filters ensures that only pathogenic contamination is removed during the treatment. This makes the treatment particularly gentle and generally very well tolerated. 

  • The number of INUSpherese® treatments required depends on your individual health status and health goals. A basic cycle of two treatments within 48 hours is recommended. For more intensive needs, such as extensive heavy metal elimination or complex clinical pictures, a third and even fourth treatment session every 6 to 7 weeks can make sense. Your personal treatment plan will be drawn up by our doctors after a detailed consultation.

  • An INUSpherese® therapy, which consists of two treatments, accompanying infusion concepts and a preparatory medical consultation, is usually priced between €5,400 and €5,700. This cost information is intended to serve as a rough guide, as the exact investment can vary depending on your individual health condition and any additional therapy options. As part of the therapy planning, you will receive detailed advice and a detailed cost overview that is individually tailored to your health goals.

Frequently asked Questions

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