Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
“There is no cure for MS; however, there are a number of treatments available...”
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, unpredictable and progressive disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which consists of the brain, spinal cord and optic (eye) nerves. It is one of the most common CNS diseases among young adults and affects approximately 2.5 million people worldwide.
The cause of MS is unknown, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder – meaning an individual’s own immune system attacks healthy cells and tissue. When this occurs, myelin – the protective insulation surrounding nerve fibers of the CNS – is destroyed. Ultimately, this damage interferes with communication between nerve cells in the CNS, causing MS symptoms. Symptoms vary from person to person and can be unpredictable.
They may include:
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Double or reduced vision in one or both eyes
- Weakness of one or more limbs
- Numbness and tingling
- Spasticity (muscle stiffness)
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Loss of bladder control
MS patients do not necessarily have one or all of these symptoms. After a few days or weeks, symptoms often diminish or improve.
There is no cure for MS. However, there are a number of treatments available that alter the course of the disease by decreasing the frequency and severity of relapses and the progression of disability.
