Tribute was paid to the star for his positive outlook and his encouragement to others on how to mentally and physically deal with the disease
Tributes have been paid to a music legend following his death after 19 years of living with an incurable condition.
Alan Osmond was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1987, commonly known as MS, and went on to dedicate years of his life to helping others who have been diagnosed with the disease. His death was confirmed by his family, who said in a statement: “His positive outlook was an inspiration to many, and he donated much of his time speaking at MS events, encouraging individuals like himself on how to mentally and physically deal with the advancement and treatment of the disease.”
The family did not give a cause of death. The star, who became a household name performing with his brothers as part of The Osmonds, previously told how he was diagnosed with the condition when he noticed he was struggling to raise his hand on stage.
Rather than giving in to the condition he said he “trusted in God” and went on to advocate for people with the disease saying: “I might have MS, but MS does not have me.”
According to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, there are an estimated 150,000 people living with MS in the UK. This is approximately one in 400 people with around 7,100 new diagnoses made every year.
But what is MS and how can you spot the signs of the condition? The NHS says: “Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It cannot currently be cured, but treatment can often help manage it.”
However some of the symptoms of the disease are common and can be easily missed. The NHS has set out what to look out for and when to see a doctor.
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis
The NHS says: “There are lots of possible symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Everyone with the condition is affected differently.” Some of the most common symptoms include:
- feeling extremely tired (fatigue)
- problems with your eyes or your vision, such as blurred vision or eye pain
- numbness or a tingling feeling in different parts of the body
- feeling off balance, dizzy or clumsy (uncoordinated)
- muscle cramps, spasms and stiffness
- needing to pee more often or not being able to control when you pee
- problems with memory or concentration
- sexual problems, including a dry vagina or erection problems
It adds: “Symptoms may come (called “flare-ups” or “relapses”) and go (called “remissions”), and may get worse over time.”
When to get medical help
See a GP
The NHS advises people to see a GP if you think you have symptoms of multiple sclerosis. However it adds an important reminder. It says: “These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different conditions.
“Having them does not definitely mean you have multiple sclerosis (MS). But it’s important to get them checked by a GP.”
Take immediate action
It says immediate action is required with some symptoms. It says you should cCall 999 or go to A&E if you have sudden:
- weakness or numbness in 1 arm
- loss or blurring of vision
- problems with balance and co-ordination
These could be signs of a stroke and need urgent medical attention. It adds: “Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Bring any medicines you take with you.”
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: mirror.co.uk
