About MS

There is real hope that you can live well with MS. Helping you understand the condition.

What is Multiple Sclerosis? (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the brain and spinal cord which affects different people in different ways. Find out more about this condition.

How MS Works

A person with MS experiences nerve damage. Our graphic below shows you how MS works, which will help you to better understand and manage the resulting symptoms.

MS diagnosis: The full guide

Initial MS symptoms can be difficult to attribute to MS. Your doctor will use the McDonald checklist to confirm an MS diagnosis. We explain how you can live well after diagnosis.

MS symptoms

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

Symptoms of MS

Types of MS

The course and symptoms of MS can vary greatly from person to person, however there are five types of MS used to categorize 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.

Relapse-remitting MS (RRMS) Primary progressive MS (PPMS) Secondary-progressive MS (SPPMS) Progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS) Benign MS

Why do people get MS?

Genetic Factors & MS – Is MS Hereditary?

MS is common in family members of people with MS. Some say it is up to 80 times more common in first degree relatives like brothers, sisters or children

MS Environmental Factors

Environmental factors increase the risk of developing the MS. Factors include low levels of vitamin D, sun exposure, high cow’s milk consumption and more.

MS and the immune system

Scientists have found that MS is an immune-based disorder, but they increasingly believe that it is not just immunity but also degeneration that plays a part.

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 MS. If you’re new to us, visit our page to help you find out how to get started.

New to Overcoming MS?

More MS information

Family health: Are family members at risk of MS?

Children and close family members of people living with MS are at an increased risk of developing MS themselves, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce their overall risk.

Stress and Multiple Sclerosis: Everything you need to know

Stress is an inevitable part of modern life. It has been shown to contribute to a long list of health problems such as chest pain, headaches, insomnia, stomach problems and a lowered immune system with more frequent infections.

People standing together with arms around each other facing the camera looking at someone behind camera

Join the Live Well Hub – be part of our community

Living with MS can be difficult at times. Whether you're new to Overcoming MS or have followed it for a long time, the Live Well Hub is a great place to connect with others and get support from the whole Overcoming MS community.