Understanding multiple sclerosis

What it is

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term condition in which the immune system attacks the protective coating around nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This disrupts messages between the brain and the body.

It is usually first diagnosed in young adults and is more common in women. The course varies a great deal from person to person.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include numbness or tingling, vision problems such as blurred or painful eye movement, weakness, balance and walking difficulty, fatigue, and problems with bladder control.

Many people have relapses, where symptoms appear or worsen over days and then partly or fully improve. Others have a steadily progressive course.

Diagnosis

There is no single test. Diagnosis combines the person's history, a neurological examination, MRI scans showing areas of damage in the brain or spinal cord, and sometimes a spinal fluid test. Other conditions with similar symptoms must be ruled out.

Treatment and living with MS

There is no cure, but disease-modifying medicines reduce relapses and slow new damage, and are most useful started early. Steroids can shorten a relapse, and other treatments address specific symptoms such as spasticity, fatigue, and bladder problems.

Rehabilitation, exercise, and not smoking all help. Many people with MS live full lives for decades, and new or worsening symptoms are worth reporting to the care team promptly.