Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks proteins in the myelin sheath of the central nervous system. The body then healths itself, creating scar tissue called sclera on the nerves and the brain. Damaging the myelin sheath decreases the efficiency of nerve signals, causing muscle weakness, tingling and numbness. The damage slows the relay of messages from the body to the brain and may also result in balance issues and falling.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include muscle weakness, a sensation of numbness or tingling and problems with thinking, memory, balance, coordination and vision.MedlinePlus: Multiple Sclerosis Many peoploe with MS develop optic neuritis.
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.
Diagnosing MS
To be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, your doctor will perform a variety of tests including nerve conductivity, magnetic resonance image sometimes called an MRI and a lumbar puncture also known as a spinal tap. the diagnosis is not considered to be confirmed until the resulots of the lumbar puncture are received, but lesions or sclera are usually visible on an MRI.
Multiple Sclerosis Risk Factors
- MayoClinic.com: Multiple Sclerosis: Risk Factors
References
Fast Facts
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Abbreviated MS
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Commonly begins between the ages 20 and 40Medline Plus: Multiple Sclerosis
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Treatment may slow progression
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There is no cure
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Approximately 250,000 to 350,000 diagnosed cases in USNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Multiple Sclerosis
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For many, the symptoms and effects of the disease are mildMedline Plus: Multiple Sclerosis
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For others, the disease can cause serious problems such as loss of the ability to write, speak or walkMedline Plus: Multiple Sclerosis
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Research suggests that genetics and the environment may play a part in causing MSWebMD: Multiple Sclerosis Health Center
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There are several types of MS and not everyone reacts the same way or has the same symptoms.
