Multiple Sclerosis

• What is Multiple Sclerosis commonly shortened to?

  MS
• What part of the body does Multiple Sclerosis affect?

  Brain and spinal cord
• At what age is Multiple Sclerosis typically diagnosed?

  In someone's 20’s or 30’s
• Does Multiple Sclerosis reduce average life expectancy?

  Yes, slightly
• Is Multiple Sclerosis treatable?

  Yes, it is treatable
• What are the main symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis?

  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty walking
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Muscle stiffness and spasms
  • Problems with balance and coordination
  • Bladder control issues
  • Blurred vision
  • Cognitive difficulties
• How severe can the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis be?

  They can range from mild to extremely debilitating
• What is Multiple Sclerosis an example of?

  An autoimmune disease
• What does the immune system attack in Multiple Sclerosis?

  The myelin in the brain and spinal cord
• What happens to the myelin sheath in Multiple Sclerosis?

  It becomes inflamed in patches
• What is left behind after inflammation clears in Multiple Sclerosis?

  Scarring on the myelin sheath
• What can scarring on the myelin sheath lead to?

  Permanent damage to underlying nerves
• What are the possible causes of Multiple Sclerosis?

  Genetic and outside factors
• What is the estimated chance of developing MS if related to someone with it?

  2-3 times higher
• How does smoking affect the risk of developing MS?

  It doubles the risk
• Which viral infection is thought to trigger MS?

  Epstein-Barr virus
• What role might low vitamin D levels play in MS?

  They may contribute to the condition
• What is the progression of Multiple Sclerosis like?

  • Phases of severe symptoms
  • Periods of remission
  • Varies among individuals
  • Some may need a wheelchair
  • Symptoms can worsen over time
• What is the treatment approach for Multiple Sclerosis?

  To treat symptoms, no cure exists
• What medication is used to treat relapses in MS?

  Steroid medication
• Who supports individuals with Multiple Sclerosis?

  A specialist MS team
• What professionals are involved in the care of MS patients?

  MS nurse, physiotherapist, neurologist
• What type of therapy helps with balance and musculoskeletal pain in MS?

  Physiotherapy
• What is the focus of the Jan 2019 Paper mentioned?

  Multiple sclerosis as an autoimmune disease
• Is Multiple Sclerosis a lifelong condition?

  Yes, it is lifelong
• Can Multiple Sclerosis lead to cognitive difficulties?

  Yes, it can
• What mobility problems can arise from Multiple Sclerosis?

  Difficulty walking and balance issues
• How does the immune system's attack affect nerve messages in MS?

  It disrupts the messages traveling along nerves
• Is Multiple Sclerosis directly inherited?

  No, it is not directly inherited
• What is unclear about vitamin D's role in MS?

  If supplements can help prevent MS