Warning Signs Of Devic's Disease

Devic's disease is also known as neuromyelitis optica, and the symptoms sometimes cause the illness to be mistaken for multiple sclerosis. Unlike multiple sclerosis, though, in Devic's disease, the immune system specifically attacks the optic nerves. Similarly to multiple sclerosis, there are also concentrated attacks on the spinal cord. Attacks on each system are sometimes separate or simultaneous. Some patients only have spinal cord problems, while others only have optic nerve problems. Even though this presentation doesn't include both traditionally affected areas, the patient still has Devic's disease. Research suggests Devic's disease is caused by the immune system attacking the molecule aquaporin 4. Many conditions can be a warning sign of underlying Devic's disease. Get to know them and other symptoms now.

Transverse Myelitis

Transverse myelitis occurs when both sides of a certain section of a patient's spinal cord become inflamed. This neurological disorder can cause heavy damage to the spinal cord. The nerve cells in the spine are covered by an insulating material called myelin, and flareups of transverse myelitis often damage this insulation. Transverse myelitis causes disruptions to the messages sent from the spinal nerves through the body. Symptoms vary, but individuals commonly experience pain, bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction, sensory problems, paralysis, and muscle weakness. Devic's disease is one of the illnesses linked to transverse myelitis, though there are a number of other immune system disorders that cause the immune system to attack healthy tissue. Infections can also play a role.

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Spinal Cord Dysfunction

Devic's disease often comes with some form of spinal cord dysfunction. The immune system concentrates its attacks on the spinal cord, doing its best to damage the nerves and interrupt nerve signals. The spinal cord dysfunction may also be linked to transverse myelitis even in patients who don't have Devic's disease. Transverse myelitis flareups cause interruptions in the nerve signals. Instead of having messages travel from the spinal cord to the muscles, and then having the muscles respond, patients may find their sensory perception and mobility are both altered. Some individuals experience numbness in their limbs and an increased sensitivity to temperature. It's also common for the limbs to feel weak and heavy. In severe cases, this can lead to complete paralysis. Some patients may find their urination patterns changing, including frequent urination, incontinence, and difficulty urinating. Similarly, patients may experience constipation or fecal incontinence.

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