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• Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks proteins in the myelin sheath of the central nervous system. Damaging the myelin sheath decreases the efficiency of nerve signals, causing muscle weakness, tingling and numbness.

• Fast Facts

  1. Abbreviated MS
  2. Commonly begins between the ages 20 and 40Medline Plus: Multiple Sclerosis
  3. Treatment may slow progression
  4. There is no cure
  5. Approximately 250,000 to 350,000 diagnosed cases in USNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Multiple Sclerosis
  6. Estimated 200 new cases each weekNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Multiple Sclerosis
  7. Twice as common in caucasiansNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Multiple Sclerosis
  8. Twice as common in womenNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Multiple Sclerosis
  9. For many, the symptoms and effects of the disease are mildMedline Plus: Multiple Sclerosis
  10. For others, the disease can cause serious problems such as loss of the ability to write, speak or walkMedline Plus: Multiple Sclerosis
  11. The cause of MS is not clearWebMD: Multiple Sclerosis Health Center
  12. Research suggests that genetics and the environment may play a part in causing MSWebMD: Multiple Sclerosis Health Center
  13. More common in Scotland, Scandinavia, and northern EuropeWebMD: Multiple Sclerosis Health Center
  14. There are several types of MS and not everyone reacts the same way or has the same symptoms.

• Symptoms

  Common symptoms include muscle weakness, a sensation of numbness or tingling and problems with thinking, memory, balance, coordination and vision.MedlinePlus: Multiple Sclerosis

• Montel Williams

  One celebrity diagnosed with MS is Montel Williams. Williams is the founder of the Montel Williams MS Foundation. Williams spoke about his experiences living with MS in an episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show which aired on March 17, 2009. Winfrey interviewed several people suffering from MS in the episode.

• Disclaimer

  The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have multiple sclerosis, please consult your doctor.

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