What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis, commonly known as MS, is a disease that affects the nerves of the central nervous system. An insulation to the nerves known as myelin improves the impulses that maintain the health of the nerves. When an individual has multiple sclerosis, inflammation in the nervous system (spinal cord and brain) causes the myelin to degenerate. These nerves then become damaged, which can affect a person's vision, walking, speech, memory and writing. The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown but researchers have narrowed the reasoning down to genetics and disorders of the immune system. Common symptoms of MS include tingling, loss of balance, blurred or double vision, numbness, weakness in limbs, slurred speech, cognitive problems, lack of coordination, and sudden paralysis. While there is no one test to diagnosis multiple sclerosis, a series of criteria is used to diagnosis the disease.
Important Multiple Sclerosis Information
Important MS informational links
- Web MD Health: Multiple Sclerosis Center - This site gives good general information about MS.
- 1-800 Wheelchair - MS informational site with several good links
- Multiple Sclerosis International Federation - Strong emphasis on community and the importance relationship.
- Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Services -Great source of MS information
- MSWorld - Site is designed to help people who are living with MS.
- Mayo Clinic - This is great resource for any questions you may have. You can sign up for the e-mail newsletter and get free updates.