Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, autoimmune neurological disease where the body’s immune system attacks the central nervous system, causing brain and spinal cord damage. There’s currently no cure, but the disease can manifest through various symptoms such as intense fatigue, depression, muscle weakness, impaired balance and motor coordination, joint pain, and bowel and bladder dysfunction. According to the Brazilian Multiple Sclerosis Association, around 40,000 Brazilians are living with the disease. August 30th marks National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Day, designed to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis in preventing the condition’s worsening.
The importance of being alert to symptoms and seeking medical guidance promptly has become a key message for 26-year-old marketing assistant Amanny Italiano. For two years, she tried to ignore the signals her body was sending until one day she woke up with vision loss in one eye and received a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. “Awareness is crucial for early diagnosis and a fulfilling life,” she says. In a first-person account celebrating the awareness day, Amanny recounts her story:
“In 2021, I started experiencing tingling sensations in my face, hands, and feet. These symptoms were sporadic, so I didn’t pay much attention. They were the first signs that something was wrong with my health. But with time, I felt better and continued with my life. Two years later, I started experiencing undefined pain between my lower back and right leg. Despite ignoring these symptoms at the time, they persisted. These discomforts, which I had taken lightly, became crucial signs in my journey towards diagnosis. The decisive moment came on December 6, 2023, when I woke up with reduced vision in my left eye. I sought medical help and underwent a series of ophthalmological exams, which didn’t reveal the cause of the problem. Eventually, I was referred to a neuro-ophthalmologist for a more detailed assessment. During the follow-up appointment, I was instructed to seek more specialized care; the exam results pointed towards a possible diagnosis of MS, although the doctor didn’t confirm it at the time. She suggested I go to the Hospital das Clínicas, which has equipment that allows for faster and more accurate detection of this disease. On January 14th of this year, after a series of exams and assessments, I received the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
The realization was distressing, but also a relief to understand that everything that had happened to my body over two years had a reason. My first reaction was to ask if I could continue drinking and smoking—the answer, obviously, was no. They also mentioned I couldn’t get pregnant, at least not without planning. Before the diagnosis, I had heard of multiple sclerosis, but I had no idea what it was. My fears became ‘what ifs’. ‘What if in a few years, I’m no longer able to live independently? What if I can’t live in another country due to the Brazilian public healthcare system treatment? What if my movements gradually diminish?’ I began monthly treatment with an intravenous infusion of the medication (Natalizumab), which has been crucial in controlling the disease. Currently, despite living well with the condition, I’ve only recovered 85% of my vision in my left eye. With treatment and the support of a dedicated medical team, I’m able to live a normal life, working and pursuing my activities with the same dedication as before. Multiple sclerosis is a part of my life, but it doesn’t define who I am. I’m grateful for the support of my family, friends, and healthcare professionals. My intention in sharing my story is to highlight the importance of paying attention to seemingly minor symptoms and seeking medical guidance when necessary. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in the quality of life and management of multiple sclerosis. My dream is to build a solid career, live outside Brazil for a while, and create a home filled with peace and happiness. I hope my experience can alert and help others recognize the signs of the disease and seek proper treatment. Awareness is essential for early diagnosis and a fulfilling life. Thank you to everyone for your support and affection. I’m optimistic about the future.”
