Also known as: Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the protective myelin coating around nerve fibres, causing communication problems between the brain and body.
Multiple sclerosis affects approximately 2.8 million people worldwide. It is the most common non-traumatic disabling neurological disease in young adults.
MS occurs when the immune system attacks myelin, the insulating sheath around nerve fibres. This demyelination disrupts nerve signal transmission, causing a wide variety of neurological symptoms.
Early treatment with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) has revolutionised outcomes, significantly reducing relapses and slowing disability progression.
People with Multiple Sclerosis often experience the following symptoms.
Inflammation of the optic nerve causing vision loss, pain with eye movement, and colour desaturation — often the first MS symptom.
Numbness, tingling, pins and needles, or abnormal sensations in the limbs, face, or trunk.
Weakness, spasticity, and difficulty with coordination and walking, often affecting one side initially.
An electric shock-like sensation running down the spine when bending the neck forward, characteristic of MS.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Multiple Sclerosis.
Common approaches to managing multiple sclerosis. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
Interferons, glatiramer, natalizumab, ocrelizumab, and others reduce relapse frequency and slow disability progression.
Alemtuzumab, cladribine, and haematopoietic stem cell transplant for aggressive disease.
High-dose corticosteroids (methylprednisolone) for acute relapses to speed recovery.
Medications for spasticity, fatigue, pain, bladder dysfunction, and cognitive symptoms.
MRI showing characteristic white matter lesions in the brain and spinal cord disseminated in space and time. Lumbar puncture showing oligoclonal bands. Visual evoked potentials for optic nerve involvement.
See a doctor promptly for new or sudden vision loss, numbness/weakness in limbs, difficulty walking, or electric shock sensations down the spine with neck flexion (Lhermitte's sign).
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening multiple sclerosis.
Vitamin D supplementation (evidence of risk reduction)
Avoid smoking
Early treatment after first clinical event
Maintain physical activity
If left untreated or poorly managed, multiple sclerosis may lead to:
No. Life expectancy is only slightly reduced. Modern treatments significantly improve quality of life and slow progression.
Not definitively, but vitamin D supplementation and avoiding smoking may reduce risk.
MS has a genetic component but is not directly inherited. First-degree relatives have a 2-4% risk compared to 0.1% general population risk.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.