Multiple Sclerosis: Causes of Death

Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the communication between the brain and other parts of the body. In MS, the myelin sheath, which insulates the nerves, comes under attack by the body's immune system. This can result in a wide range of symptoms including muscle weakness, paralysis, speech impairment, dizziness and hearing loss. Although rarely fatal, MS can cause health complications which may result in death.

Inability to Swallow

• In some cases, MS patients may lose control over the muscles that enable them to swallow. This can have fatal consequences in different ways. Patients may choke on their food or drink, or may aspirate food, leading to pneumonia. Also, without proper intervention on the part of the patient or caregivers, inability to swallow may result in death from dehydration or starvation. However, in these cases death would be partially attributed to neglect on the part of caregivers.

Inability to Urinate

• In some cases, MS sufferers lose the ability to eliminate liquid waste from the body. Without medical intervention, this can mean urinary tract infections and urine retention. This in turn can causes damage to the kidneys, and eventually, even kidney failure.

Consequences of Lack of Movement

• Patients who are paralyzed and do not receive proper care in the form of physical therapy or other gentle, assisted movements may experience infected bedsores, stasis pneumonia and even heart attacks. The involvement of family and health care providers can prevent this form of fatality.

Depression

• In some instances, MS patients experience severe depression related to their experience and may commit suicide.