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About Multiple Sclerosis

Learn about Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic condition affecting the central nervous system. Discover its causes, types, and treatment options to better understand and manage your MS.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS); the brain and spinal cord.

It is an autoimmune disease, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue—in this case, the fatty, protective covering of certain nerve fibres, known as myelin. This process, called demyelination, disrupts the normal transmission of electrical signals between the brain and body, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms.

Discover more details on, What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) here.

 

How Does MS Affect the Body?

The damage caused by MS can affect movement, sensation, balance, vision, energy levels and cognitive function. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include:

  • Muscle weakness or spasms
  • Numbness or tingling in the limbs
  • Difficulty with balance and coordination
  • Fatigue and cognitive changes
  • Vision problems, such as blurred or double vision
  • Bowel and bladder issues

MS symptoms can come and go, worsen over time, or remain stable depending on the type of MS

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) symptoms

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) symptoms vary from person to person. Read our guide covering many symptoms experienced by people with MS to help you understand the condition.

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Early Signs of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Women and Men

Early signs of MS often reflect the most common symptoms of MS and that’s why early recognition and professional evaluation are crucial. Discover the early signs of MS and the difference in symptoms for both men and women with this page.

Get started with the Overcoming MS Program

Want to know more? Discover the history and evidence that provides the foundation for Overcoming MS and the Program in this short email series.

Types of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

The course and symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can vary greatly from person to person, however there are five types of MS used to categorise the condition.

The type of MS is identified by determining the pattern of symptoms a person is experiencing. Pinpointing this pattern of symptoms helps us understand how a person diagnosed with MS may be affected over time.

Click the links below to learn more about the different types of MS.

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What are the next steps?

At Overcoming MS, we are here to share the evidence-based lifestyle changes which can help you to live well with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). If you’re new to us, visit our page to help you find out how to get started.

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