Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic medical condition that commonly affects people between the ages of 20 and 40, with women being twice as likely to have the disease as men. MS can be a daunting and precarious diagnosis, but proper treatment can help manage symptoms. Below, you will find answers to some frequently asked questions about MS.
What is MS?
MS is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues, specifically the nerves and myelin, which are part of the protective coating covering the nerve fibers in the spinal cord and brain. Myelin helps your brain and spinal cord, which are part of the central nervous system (CNS), communicate with the rest of your body. When the immune system attacks these electrical conductions, it can cause scars, called sclerosis, in the CNS. Your symptoms depend on the location of the scars in the CNS. Over time, MS can cause permanent damage to the nerves. There are several types of MS, with the most common being relapsing-remitting MS. Of all people with MS, 8 out of 10 have relapsing-remitting MS, meaning that symptoms can appear and disappear over time.
Is MS genetic?
There is no specific gene that causes MS and can be passed from parents to children, but you might inherit a likelihood of developing MS. Research shows that several genes may play a role in the development of MS. A variation in a gene known as HLA-DRB1 is the most important genetic risk factor for the incidence of MS. This genetic variation could play a role in the way the immune system attacks myelin sheaths and nerves.
What are the signs and symptoms of MS?
MS can cause a variety of symptoms that can vary from person to person. Early symptoms of MS may include blurry vision, double vision, or eye pain with movement, muscle weakness in the hands and legs, stiffness with muscle spasms, numbness, tingling, or pain in the arms, legs, face, or torso, balance difficulties, dizziness, and urinary problems. Later symptoms may include physical and mental fatigue, mood changes, concentration problems, and memory deficiencies.
Is race a risk factor for MS?
Traditionally, MS has been a medical condition that affects people of white race with European ancestry. People with Hispanic and Asian ancestry are much less likely to have MS than people of white race with European ancestry. However, scientists have observed an increase in MS among people of black race. In fact, there are likely more people of black race, particularly black women, with MS than previously thought. MS also affects people of black race differently than people of white race, but scientists do not yet know why.
Why is it so difficult to get a diagnosis of MS?
There is no specific test to diagnose MS. Instead, healthcare providers use a variety of tests to obtain a diagnosis. It can be difficult to get a diagnosis, especially if you have rare symptoms or if your MS has progressed. Your symptoms may be ambiguous or may be similar to those of other disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
Who might be part of your MS care team?
If you have MS, your care team may include healthcare providers such as your primary care provider, a neurologist, a mental health provider, physical or occupational therapists, nurses, and other specialists to help treat MS symptoms.
How is MS treated?
There are several treatments for MS, including treatments to slow the progression of the disease and treatments to stop attacks. Medications can also be used to manage specific symptoms, such as bladder problems, fatigue, or pain.
What happens if MS is left untreated?
There is no cure for MS, but if left untreated, it can lead to slower recovery from attacks and difficulties in managing symptoms. Untreated MS can also speed up damage to your nervous system and progress to secondary progressive MS. It is important to take care of yourself and communicate closely with your healthcare provider to manage symptoms and treatments.
This educational resource was prepared with the support of Novartis.
