Multiple sclerosis
Evidence: Antibody
Names
Multiple Sclerosis
MS
Description
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system disease that occurs when the immune system attacks the myelin, which is a protective covering around the nerves. The nerves may then suffer permanent damage. The cause of the abnormal immune system action is unknown, but there seems to be some genetic link. The most common form of MS is relapsing-remitting which occurs when a patient has symptom-free periods, but the patient may develop a progressive form where the symptoms worsen over time. Women are affected twice as often as men. MS varies in severity, with some people losing the ability to walk.
Prevalence
US cases: 755,000 - 762,000 [Wallin 2019]
Typical Age of onset
Can occur at any age, particularly between the ages of 15 and 60. In most patients, symptoms begin between the ages of 20 and 40.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary greatly from person to person, because different nerves can be affected.
Muscle weakness, typically only affecting one side of the body at a time
Pain or burning sensations
Coordination or balance issues, such as when walking
Numbness or tingling
Sensations that feel like electric shocks, triggered by some neck movements
Slurred speech
Vision loss, typically only affecting one eye at a time
Double vision for an extended period of time
Fatigue
Dizziness
Bladder and bowel control issues
Tremor
Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Mayo Clinic
References
WebMD
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Mayo Clinic
Profile by Amy West
