What is Multiple sclerosis (MS)?
MS is considered an autoimmune, inflammatory disease that attacks the central nervous system. Myelin - the substance protecting the nerve fibres gets attached by the body's immune system causing scarring or sclerosis
When coating of the nerve cells or the nerve cells themselves are damaged, information flow along the spinal cord and brain gets disrupted.
Who can get affected by MS?
More than 2 million people worldwide with half a million in the US alone are affected by MS.
It usually affects people between the ages of 20 and 50 with women being more likely to get affected than men
What are the symptoms of Multiple sclerosis (MS)?
The symptoms of MS are unpredictable and can vary from person to person. Symptoms can range from fatigue, numbness, blurry vision, dizziness, lack of muscle coordination and balance, speech problems to severe cases of paralysis and loss of brain functions.
What causes Multiple sclerosis (MS)?
MS can be caused by various factors including the body's immune response, smoking, lack of Vitamin D, genetic reasons and infections that affect the myelin. These factors are triggers and increase risk of developing MS.
The exact causes of developing MS is being researched.
How is Multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosed?
MS can be difficult to diagnose as its symptoms are often similar to other inflammatory conditions, vitamin deficiencies, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus and infections of the brain.
The patient's medical history, a neurological exam and tests such as an MRI, Spinal Tap and Evoked potential tests can help a neurologist to diagnose MS.