The term sclerosis is defined as a thickening or hardening of a structure in the body. The thickening or hardening is usually due to a condition that is characterized by chronic inflammation. Most common sclerosis conditions affect the nervous system or blood vessels, which can result in problems with controlling muscle movement, proper brain function and normal blood circulation.
Multiple Sclerosis
Nerve cells are surrounded by a structure called the myelin sheath. The myelin sheath is a fatty substance that protects the nerve cells and ensures that nerve signals are transmitted quickly and efficiently. Multiple sclerosis is a condition that damages the myelin sheath of the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. When the myelin sheath is damaged, nerve transmissions from the brain to the body are slowed down or interrupted. Symptoms that manifest due to this interruption include blurred vision, loss of vision, muscle weakness, difficulty with coordination and balance, memory problems, numbness and tingling sensations, according to MedlinePlus. There is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but a combination of medications and physical therapy can ease symptoms and aid in delaying the progression of the disease.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a condition in which the motor neurons in the body are destroyed. Motor neurons are the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles, and most are located in the brain, brainstem and spinal cord, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. When the motor neurons are destroyed, the brain can no longer send nerve signals to move the muscles. This results in muscle twitching, muscle cramping, muscle weakness, slurred speech, difficulty chewing, difficulty walking and increased falls. Eventually, the muscles atrophy, or waste away, and are completely useless. At this stage, a person affected by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis can no longer breathe without mechanical assistance. There is no treatment for the disease, but medications, physical therapy and occupational therapy are used to delay progression of the disease.
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaque becomes deposited in the inner lining of the arteries. Plaque is composed of fatty substances, cholesterol, waste products and calcium, according to the American Heart Association. As plaque buildup increases, blood flow in impeded and blood is not distributed properly throughout the body. Plaques can also rupture and form blood clots, which can completely stop blood flow and result in a heart attack. Atherosclerosis develops over a number of years, and certain factors increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis. These risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, family history of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and high cholesterol. Atherosclerosis leads to an increased risk of heart attack, heart disease and stroke. Blockages in the arteries can be treated with stents, which are mechanical structures that physically open the artery, and bypass surgery.
