What is MS?
Multiple Sclerosis is a complex, chronic, unpredictable auto-immune disease of the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.
MS is known as a "snowflake disease" meaning symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary in type and severity from one person to another and in the same person over time. Symptoms may disappear, or "remit", or they may persist and worsen over time.
Types of MS:
1.) Clinically Isolated Syndrome
2.) Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) - This is the most common type of MS. Approximately 85% of people diagnosed with MS are diagnosed with RRMS. This is characterized as clearly defined attacks of new or increasing neurologic symptoms, followed by periods of partial-complete recovery.
3.) Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) - Most people who are diagnosed with RRMS will transition to SPMS, in which there is a progressive worsening of neurologic function. This follows after RRMS. Disability increases over time, with or without evidence of disease activity
4.) Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS) - Approximately 15% of people diagnosed with MS are diagnosed with PPMS. This is characterized by worsening neurologic function from the onset of symptoms, without relapses or remissions.
Symptoms of MS:
fatigue
numbness
tingling
weakness
blurred or double vision
poor coordination
imbalance
pain
depression
memory issues
cognitive problems
unexplained itching
Is there a cure for MS?
There is no cure for MS. However, there are FDA-approved disease-modifying medications that help to reduce the number of relapses and delaying disease progression. These medications include oral medications, self-administered injections, and infusions that are administered in a hospital setting. The financial burden of these medications can also be tremendous, costing thousands of dollars.
Who Is Affected By MS?
MS affects moms, dads, wives, husbands, teachers, health care professionals, police officers,
your family, neighbors, friends and many others.
Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, although children and older adults may also develop Multiple Sclerosis. Nearly 1 million people have been diagnosed with MS in the United States; 2.3 million people Worldwide.