Multiple sclerosis
A condition of the central nervous system that can affect movement, vision and sensation.
If pain is sudden or severe, or comes with trouble breathing, chest pain or sudden weakness, seek emergency care immediately.
Common symptoms and how they vary
Symptoms vary a lot between people: tiredness, vision problems such as blurring or pain when moving the eye, numbness or tingling, and muscle weakness or spasms.
Problems with balance and coordination, the bladder, and concentration and memory.
Many people have relapses followed by periods of recovery; in others the condition progresses gradually.
Causes and risk factors
The immune system attacks the protective coating of the nerves (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord.
The cause is unknown. Linked factors include genes, low vitamin D, a past Epstein-Barr virus infection and smoking. It is more common in women and is often diagnosed between 20 and 40.
How it is usually diagnosed
A neurologist diagnoses it with a neurological examination and an MRI scan of the brain and spinal cord.
A lumbar puncture or nerve response tests are sometimes needed, and other conditions are ruled out using agreed diagnostic criteria.
Treatment categories in general terms
Categories include disease-modifying therapies (injections, tablets or infusions) to reduce relapses, short courses of steroids for a relapse, treatments for specific symptoms, and rehabilitation with physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
Living with the condition
Plan your day around your energy; fatigue is one of the most common symptoms.
Heat can make symptoms worse for a while, so try to stay cool. Suitable exercise and stopping smoking help.
Tell your doctor about any new symptom that lasts more than 24 hours.
Common questions
Is MS life-threatening?
It is not usually life-threatening, and for most people life expectancy is close to average.
Will I need a wheelchair?
Many people never do. The course varies from person to person, and modern treatments have changed the outlook a lot.
Questions you could ask your doctor
- How do I tell new symptoms from usual ups and downs?
- What makes my fatigue worse?
- How should I plan my day?
Tools and resources
Trusted sources for further reading
General education in line with the patient pages of these sources.