Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory condition that affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. The term multiple sclerosis refers to the multiple scars (or scleroses) on the sheath of fatty tissue (myelin) that protects the nerve fibres, which are thought to result from attacks by the immune system on the nervous system. This scarring interrupts the signals carried by the neurons (nerve cells) from the brain to different parts of the body, causing symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulties with coordination and speech, vision problems, pain and severe fatigue.
Around 85,000 people in the UK are affected by MS and it is the most common neurological disorder among young adults. Although it can develop at any age, in most cases symptoms are first seen between the ages of 20 and 40. Women are more likely to be affected than men, making up 60% of diagnosed cases.
In this section, you'll find a range of information on MS, including how it may be caused, the different types that may develop, its symptoms, means of diagnosis and methods of treatment.
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