Multiple Sclerosis, MS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a nervous system disease that affects the nervous system including the brain and spinal cord.
It damages the myelin sheath, the material that surrounds and protects nerve cells. This damage slows down or blocks messages between the brain and body. Symptoms of MS can include visual disturbances, muscle weakness, trouble with coordination and balance, sensations such as numbness, prickling, or 'pins and needles,' and thinking or memory problems.
The cause of MS is unknown. It may be an autoimmune disease which happens when your body attacks itself. Multiple sclerosis affects woman more than men. It often begins between the ages of 20 and 40. Usually, the disease is mild, but some people lose the ability to write, speak or walk. There is no cure for MS but medicines may slow it down and help control symptoms. Physical and occupational therapy and some Complementary and Alternative therapies may also help.