Myelitis pamphlet questions

What is it?

100

How many symptoms are there ?

5

200

what does myelitis affect

the spinal cord

300

What is the abbreviation for transverse myelitis?

• Transverse Myelitis
• Myelitis
• TM

400

What are the main symptoms of myelitis?

• Pain throughout the back, legs, arms
• Muscle weakness, potentially leading to paralysis
• Tingling, numbness, burning, or sensitivity sensations
• Urinary or bowl incontinence (difficulty holding or going)
• Other: muscle spasms, sexual dysfunction, mood changes

500

Full diagnosis 

Transverse Myelitis (TM) is inflammation of both sides of one section of the spinal cord, which is damaging to themyelin. The function of the myelin, which covers the nerve cell fibers,  is to assist in the efficiency of signals between nerves and the brain.

If you’re diagnosed

100

How many treatments options are there?

4

200

What are the treatmen options?

• Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): Filters harmful antibodies from the blood.
• Steroids: Reduce spinal cord inflammation. (ex: IV methylprednisolone).
• Pain Meds: Help control nerve pain. (ex: Gabapentin).
• Physical/Occupational Therapy: improve strength, movement, and daily skills.

300

What cam myelitis be mistaken for and why?

myelitis can be mistaken for a stroke due to the symptoms of weakness or numbness on one side of the body, just like a stroke.

400

How can myelitis affect on the pt and family?

Transverse Myelitis can impact day to day life tremendously and daily  diet due to energy levels and appetite overall.

families can have difficulty meal prepping for them 

500

How many people can be diagnosed world wide?

1 in 8 people per 1,000,000 are diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis in the U.S. annually