What is MS?

Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the nervous system.  It affects more women than men and commonly begins between the ages of 20 to 40.  MS is characterized by various areas of inflammation and by destruction of myelin in the brain and spinal cord.  Myelin is a substance that surrounds and protects certain nerve fibers.  When the myelin is attacked areas of scar called plaques appear and interfere with the normal function of nerve pathways often slowing or sometimes even blocking transmission of the nerve impulses.

The symptoms of MS vary from person to person.  Everyone's MS is different.  The symptoms depend on which areas of the brain and spinal cord are affected and very often the symptoms differ with each attack.  Some symptoms may include:  eye problems (vision loss, blurred vision, double vision), dragging of feet, staggerng, loss of balance, muscle stiffness or spasms, numbness or tingling, trembling or twitching, poor coordination, loss of bladder or bowel control, fatigue, speech problems, problems with memory, mood swings, confusion and depression.  The first symptoms may appear suddenly, but they may also start slowly and gradually get worse  Difficulty walking is commonly the first problem.  Loss of vision, double vision, loss of balance and weakness in a limb may also occur.  After several days or even weeks these symptoms may disappear.  New attacks may appear after periods of recovery.  In some people there seems to be no time of recovery between attacks.

Physicians do not know the cause of MS.  Some studies indicate that a viral infection at a young age may produce a reaction in the body's immune system.  Normally the body protects itself from disease by producing antibodies, but in MS a defect in the immune system may allow the antibodies to destroy the myelin.  Geographic studies indicate there may be an environmental factor involved with MS.  Studies have shown living in temperate climates (closer to the equator) show fewer cases of MS.

There is currently no cure for MS.  There are medications used to treat MS and it's many symptoms.   Interferon beta proucts (Avonex, Betaseron) and glatiramer acetate products (Copaxone) are used to try to reduce the frequency of the attacks and slow the progression of the disease.   There are steroids used to help reduce inflammaion and ease attack symptoms.  There are also other medicines used to control certain symptoms (bladder control, depression, spasticity, etc.)