What are the symptoms of myelitis, and how is it treated?
May 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Symptoms of myelitis generally include motor dysfunction, difficulty swallowing, and others. Treatment can be carried out through general supportive care, medication, and other methods. A detailed analysis is as follows: Myelitis is primarily a condition caused by infection with pathogenic microorganisms. If a patient's body becomes chilled, leading to decreased immunity, invasion by pathogenic microbes and their subsequent extensive proliferation in the body may result in myelitis.
Symptoms of myelitis generally include motor dysfunction, dysphagia, etc. These can be managed through general care, medication, and other treatments. A detailed analysis is as follows:
I. Symptoms
1. Motor Dysfunction
Myelitis is primarily caused by infection with pathogenic microorganisms. If a patient's body becomes chilled, leading to decreased immunity, invasion by pathogenic microbes and their subsequent proliferation in the body may trigger myelitis. The symptoms vary depending on the site affected by the pathogens. If the lesion occurs in the lower limbs, damage to the nerves in that region may lead to relaxation of local sphincter muscles, resulting in motor dysfunction such as numbness and weakness in the lower limbs.
2. Dysphagia
If the lesion affects areas such as the pharynx, damage to surrounding nerves may impair muscle control of the pharyngeal and esophageal regions, potentially causing difficulty swallowing and an inability to eat normally.
II. Treatment
1. General Management
During acute episodes, patients should remain in bed and increase intake of nutritious foods. If normal urination is not possible, a urinary catheter may be required. Close monitoring of respiratory status is essential during bed rest to ensure airway patency. Patients should be turned regularly to prevent pressure ulcers (bedsores).
2. Medication
For patients with severe symptoms or significant pain, medications such as pregabalin capsules or carbamazepine tablets may be prescribed under medical supervision.
In addition, other symptoms of myelitis may include sensory disturbances, bladder distension, and urinary or bowel dysfunction. Physical therapy and electromyographic biofeedback therapy may also be beneficial. It is recommended to maintain good personal hygiene in daily life and avoid skin exposure to excreta to prevent localized skin infections.
