Mastication, Cognition, and Nutritional Status in Multiple Sclerosis

Investigation of the Relationship Between Chewing Function and Cognitive Functions, Disease Severity, and Nutritional Status in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between chewing function and cognitive functions, disease severity, and nutritional status in individuals diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being 18 years of age or older

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having a neurological or systemic disease other than Multiple Sclerosis that may affect chewing function
• Inability to provide adequate communication or cooperation due to psychiatric disorders
• Not being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis
• Not volunteering to participate in the study
• Presence of severe problems preventing questionnaire administration (visual and/or hearing impairments)
• History or presence of psychiatric and/or other neurological disorders
• Presence of severe neurological findings that may negatively affect cognitive performance (e.g., severe optic neuritis)
• Use of medications affecting cognitive functions
• Alcohol or substance use
• Having experienced a relapse within the last month
• Having received corticosteroid treatment within the last month
• History of stroke, head and neck cancer, or rheumatic diseases that may affect swallowing and chewing performance