Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord and optic
(eye) nerves. It is the most common neurological disease in young adults, affecting approximately two million people worldwide
and more than 85,000 people in the UK. MS is not inherited, but family members do have a slightly higher risk of developing
MS. The condition is usually diagnosed when patients are in their 20s or 30s.
At present, there is no cure for MS but the symptoms can be treated.
MS is the result of damage to myelin - a protective sheath surrounding nerve fibres of the central nervous system. When myelin is damaged, this interferes with messages between the brain and other parts of the body. For some people, MS is characterised by periods of relapse and remission while for others it has a progressive pattern.
MS is the result of damage to myelin - a protective sheath surrounding nerve fibres of the central nervous system. When myelin is damaged, this interferes with messages between the brain and other parts of the body. For some people, MS is characterised by periods of relapse and remission while for others it has a progressive pattern.
MS Facts:
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MS is a disease affecting the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord)
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MS interferes with the brain’s ability to control such functions as seeing, walking and talking. It is unpredictable and every person’s experience of MS will be different
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MS is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 and is twice as common among women as it is among men
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Symptoms vary, ranging from mild to more severe, but most commonly include: blurred vision, problems with strength and coordination, and numbness or tingling in the limbs.
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There may be periods of relapse of varying length and severity
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It is neither infectious nor contagious
Useful contacts
The following support groups and organisations may be able to offer you further information and advice. Ask your doctor or
nurse about local services too.
Multiple Sclerosis Trust
Spirella Building
Bridge Road
Letchworth Garden City
Hertfordshire
SG6 4ET
Spirella Building
Bridge Road
Letchworth Garden City
Hertfordshire
SG6 4ET
MS Society
MS National Centre
372 Edgware Road
London
NW2 6ND
MS National Centre
372 Edgware Road
London
NW2 6ND
Tel: 020 8438 0700
Fax: 020 8438 0701
Fax: 020 8438 0701
| Disclaimer |
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The information contained in these pages is intended for general reference only. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease without the advice of a qualified medical professional, and does not replace medical advice or a medical examination. Multiple Sclerosis should be diagnosed by a specialist in that field. Before starting any treatment a physician needs to be consulted. |