Ask the Doctor
Dr. Jack Burks, Vice President & Chief Medical Officer for MSAA
Q: I am a 43-year-old Navy veteran, diagnosed with MS in 1996. I wanted to know if a connection has been found between MS and exposure to asbestos.
A:As you may know, a number of environmental toxins have been considered as suspects in the search for the cause of MS. Mercury and formaldehyde are two examples. Despite several investigations, no link has ever been found between such toxins and MS. As with these other studies, after researching this subject, I could not find any direct evidence associating MS with asbestos.
Q: Can you give an update on the status of stem cell research?
A: Stem cell research using embryonic, fetal, or placenta blood stem cells have not been reported in scientific MS clinical trials to date. I am still optimistic, however, that these types of stem cells may have the potential to one day help individuals with MS. On the other hand, research using bone marrow transplant (which also goes by the name of "stem cell" research) is ongoing, but long-term efficacy and safety have not been established. This procedure is considered "experimental." Research is impeded by the fact that this procedure has a five to ten percent mortality rate, as well as a risk for toxic effects to the brain from the drugs used to "cleanse" the cells. For more information, readers may refer to the "Ask the Doctor" column in the Spring 2004 issue of The Motivator. Copies may be obtained by calling MSAA at (800) 532-7667 or by logging onto www.msaa.com.
Q: Are any specific medications available to improve balance?
A: No medications are specifically designed to improve balance problems with MS. Medications are available, however, to treat vertigo and dizziness, which can certainly impact one's balance. These include antihistamines (such as Antivert®, Benadryl®, Dramamine®, and a scopolamine patch), as well as benzodiazepines (which include Klonopin®, Ativan®, Xanax®, Serax®, and Valium®). Patients should consult a physician before taking any of these over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Aside from treating vertigo and dizziness with medication, balance may sometimes be helped through rehabilitation techniques, which can be especially effective in decreasing one's risk of falling. Assistive equipment such as walkers, canes, feeding devices, and other tools may help individuals with balance problems to feel and function better, as well as increase safety. Biofeedback may also be helpful for some people.
Jack Burks, MD, is a neurologist who specializes in MS. He is vice president & chief medical officer for MSAA, as well as president of the Multiple Sclerosis Alliance. Additionally, Dr. Burks is a clinical professor of medicine in neurology at the University of Nevada School of Medicine in Reno, Nevada, and a member of the Medical Advisory Board of the National MS Society. He has edited two textbooks on MS, and in the 1970s, Dr. Burks established the Rocky Mountain MS Center in Colorado, one of the nation's first comprehensive MS centers.
To Submit Questions to Ask the Doctor...
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Questions for Ask the Doctor
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Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08002
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