Transverse myelitis is a neurological condition that affects the spinal cord. When you have transverse myelitis, the spinal cord becomes inflamed and, in turn, damages the myelin. Myelin is the protective fatty substance that surrounds your nerves and keeps them safe from damage or destruction.
When the myelin is compromised, the nerves are now vulnerable to damage, scarring, and other issues. This can impact the way your spinal nerves are able to send signals throughout the body.
Transverse Myelitis Symptoms
Transverse myelitis presents with a wide variety of symptoms since the spinal cord nerves are responsible for many functions throughout the body. Symptoms of transverse myelitis include:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Burning or tingling in the extremities
- Heightened sensitivity to touch and temperature
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Difficulty with fine motor skills
If you notice symptoms of transverse myelitis, it is important that you be evaluated by a neurologist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis.
Causes of Transverse Myelitis
In many cases, the exact cause of transverse myelitis is unknown. It is thought to be caused by inflammation within the body that spreads to the spinal cord. The following conditions can cause widespread inflammation that leads to transverse myelitis:
- Lyme disease
- Measles
- Viral infections
- Bacterial infections
- Parasites
- Autoimmune disorders
There may also be a link between transverse myelitis and multiple sclerosis. Since symptoms are very similar, the two are often misdiagnosed as the other. In some cases, people are diagnosed with transverse myelitis when they are actually in the earliest stage of multiple sclerosis.
Treating Transverse Myelitis
Transverse myelitis can be addressed in several ways. Traditional approaches include prescription medication and physical therapy, but regenerative medicine may also be an effective option.
If you are struggling with the symptoms of transverse myelitis, consult with your regular physician so that you can be properly diagnosed and begin a treatment plan that meets your needs.
This post was written by a medical professional at https://www.stemedix.com. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.
