Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, chronic neurological condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS consists of the brain, spinal cord, and the optic nerves. Surrounding and protecting the nerve fibers of the CNS is a fatty tissue called myelin, which helps nerve fibers conduct electrical impulses. In MS, myelin is lost in multiple areas, leaving scar tissue called sclerosis. These damaged areas are also known as plaques or lesions. Sometimes the nerve fiber itself is damaged or broken.
MS is believed to be an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own tissue. In the case of MS, myelin is attacked. Scientists do not yet know what triggers the immune system to do this. Most agree that several factors are involved, including genetics, gender, environmental triggers such as the possibilities including viruses, trauma, and heavy metals, toxicology.
The most common characteristics of MS include fatigue, weakness, spasticity, balance problems, bladder and bowel problems, numbness, vision loss, tremor and vertigo. Not all symptoms affect all MS patients and symptoms and signs may be persistent or may cease from time to time.
Over 350,000 people are diagnosed with MS in the United States today. Anyone may develop MS, but there are some patterns. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50. Twice as many women as men have MS. Studies indicate that genetic factors make certain individuals more susceptible than others, but there is no evidence that MS is directly inherited. MS occurs more commonly among people with northern European ancestry, but people of African, Asian, and Hispanic backgrounds are not immune.
The diagnosis of MS is done by performing several nervous system functioning tests that consist of checking reflexes, balance, coordination, and vision- as well as assessing for areas of numbness. Several diagnostic tests are done such as MRI scan, which gives detailed view of the brain. Evoked potential tests may also be done which measures how quickly and accurately a person's nervous system responds to certain stimulation. In addition, a spinal tap which checks spinal fluid for signs of the disease may be performed.
Additional information regarding multiple sclerosis can be found on the following website http://www.msfocus.org/.
