Information for People With MS

MS is a long-lasting disease that can affect your brain, spinal cord, and optic (eye) nerves. That can cause problems with vision, balance, muscle control and other body functions. MS originates when the immune system attacks a fatty substance around your nerves, called myelin, causing damage. The result is that your brain may not be able to send signals as effectively through your body, and your nerves may not work the way they should to help you move and feel.

Common symptoms of MS include trouble walking, feeling tired, muscle spasms, blurred or double vision, numbness and tingling, sexual problems, poor bladder or bowel control, pain, depression and trouble focusing or remembering. Not everyone with MS will have all of these symptoms, but if you have a diagnosis of MS it is important to get treatment to prevent long-term damage to your nervous system.

What Causes MS?

We do not currently know the exact cause of MS. We do know that there are risk factors that make it more likely, including certain infections such as the Epstein Barr Virus, genetic factors, vitamin D deficiency and smoking. People with other autoimmune conditions, including thyroid disease, pernicious anemia, type 1 diabetes, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease may be at a greater risk of developing MS.

How Do I Know if I Have MS?

MS symptoms are similar to those of other nerve disorders. Clinical features along with specific MS findings are required to make the diagnosis of MS. Your doctor may analyze your blood, perform tests of your nervous system, conduct an MRI or, occasionally, test your spinal fluid to assist in diagnosing MS.

What Can I Do About My MS?

The most important thing to do is work with an MS specialist to help with maintenance and prevention of future inflammatory relapses. Other things that can help include:

• Get adequate sun exposure and supplement with vitamin D (5,000 units per day) in the winter
• Eat a healthy diet
• Keep stress levels down
• Exercise regularly

How is MS Treated?

We are still searching for a permanent cure, but there are many effective medications that can prevent disease activity such as relapses or MRI changes, improve symptoms and slow the course of the disease. With appropriate treatment, people with MS can remain active, get pregnant, raise families and continue their normal jobs.