Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a nervous system disease that affects the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms of MS
- Visual disturbances
- Muscle weakness
- Trouble with coordination and balance
- Sensations such as numbness, prickling or "pins and needles"
- Thinking and memory problems
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues. In multiple sclerosis, this process destroys myelin — the fatty substance that coats and protects nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. This damage slows down or blocks messages between the brain and body. Myelin can be compared to the insulation on electrical wires.
There is no cure for MS, but medicines may slow its progression and help control symptoms. Lifestyle modification and physical and occupational therapy also may help