Multiple Sclerosis

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Overview

What Is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?MS is a disease that can affect your brain and spinal cord, and can cause problems with vision, balance, muscle control.

Frequently Asked Questions About MSWe answer some of the most common questions about multiple sclerosis.

How MS ProgressesAs you learn more about they type of MS you have, you'll have a clearer idea how it may affect you in the coming years.

Conditions That Look Like MSMany other conditions have symptoms similar to those of MS. Your doctor will need to rule out these other conditions first.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?MS is a disease that can affect your brain and spinal cord, and can cause problems with vision, balance, muscle control.

Frequently Asked Questions About MSWe answer some of the most common questions about multiple sclerosis.

How MS ProgressesAs you learn more about they type of MS you have, you'll have a clearer idea how it may affect you in the coming years.

Conditions That Look Like MSMany other conditions have symptoms similar to those of MS. Your doctor will need to rule out these other conditions first.

Demyelinating DiseasesMS is a disease that can affect myelin, the protective coating of the nerves.

Why MS Affects More Women Than MenWomen with MS outnumber men with the condition. Experts have theories that might explain the sex differences in MS rates.

Are Women's MS Symptoms Worse?Not only does MS affect more women than men, but some research says that MS symptoms may also hit women harder than men.

The Link Between Hormones and MSHormones may also affect how MS plays out in your body, how much damage it does, and your odds of having the disease.

Treating Multiple Sclerosis in WomenThe right MS treatment can slow the disease and reduce the number of attacks. If you're a woman, treatment is more challenging.

How MS Affects Aging WomenWalking, balance, bone strength, and bladder control all become bigger issues in older women with MS than in those without it.

Have a Healthy Pregnancy With MSIf you want to start a family, MS doesn’t have to stop you. It doesn’t keep you from getting pregnant or hurt your unborn baby.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in ChildrenMultiple sclerosis happens most often in adults, but doctors are diagnosing more children and teenagers with the condition.

What Is Schilder's Disease?Schilder's disease is a rare condition that usually starts in childhood. It's most common in boys between 7 and 12 years old.

Types

What Are the Different Types of MS?There are a few types of MS. Knowing which type you have can help predict disease severity and how well treatment will work.

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple SclerosisMost people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a type called relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). It usually starts in your 20s or 30s.

Early Treatment for Relapsing-Remitting MSOne study shows that people who began treatment when their first symptoms started were 35% less likely to have a repeat attack.

Why You Should Track Your RRMS SymptomsIt's important to track your symptoms so you know when your MS progresses.

What Are the Different Types of MS?There are a few types of MS. Knowing which type you have can help predict disease severity and how well treatment will work.

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple SclerosisMost people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a type called relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). It usually starts in your 20s or 30s.

Early Treatment for Relapsing-Remitting MSOne study shows that people who began treatment when their first symptoms started were 35% less likely to have a repeat attack.

Why You Should Track Your RRMS SymptomsIt's important to track your symptoms so you know when your MS progresses.

Preparing for a Life With RRMSIf you have RRMS, you'll have to prepare for the times your symptoms flare up and periods when they quiet down.

Changing Your Home for RRMSThere are a lot of changes you can make to your home that will make life with RRMS simpler and safer.

MS Remission: How to Get ThereBetween these flare-ups, you have phases of recovery, called remissions. They might last a few weeks, several months, or longer.

When RRMS Becomes SPMSRRMS eventually will turn into secondary progressive MS (SPMS). In this stage, you have fewer breaks between flare-ups.

Secondary Progressive Multiple SclerosisIf you've been diagnosed with SPMS you may have had relapsing-remitting MS for a decade or more.

FAQ About Secondary Progressive MSFrequently asked questions about secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, answered.

Treatment for Secondary Progressive MSOnce you switch over from RRMS to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), you may need to adjust your treatment plan.

The Emotional Impact of SPMSSecondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) can have a big impact on your life, including on your emotions.

CIS and MS: What's the Difference?Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) is a condition with the same symptoms as multiple sclerosis (MS).

Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)Unlike some other types of MS, you won’t have relapses or remissions. Only 10% to 15% of people with MS have this form.

What You Need to Know About Benign MSNeurologists consider MS benign if you’ve maintained most of your body’s ability to function after having MS for several years.

Late-Onset Multiple SclerosisSymptoms of late-onset multiple sclerosis are often mistaken for signs of normal aging.

Myelocortical Multiple SclerosisMyelocortical multiple sclerosis (MCMS) causes nerve cell loss without damaging the myelin in your cerebral white matter.

Tumefactive Multiple SclerosisTumefactive MS is rare and causes a tumor-like growth in the brain. Symptoms are similar to what happens with brain tumors.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Multiple SclerosisHow and when symptoms like vision trouble and numbness and tingling are commonly seen.

Multiple Sclerosis and Vision ProblemsVision problems are pretty common for people with MS. The symptoms usually come and go on their own.

Optic Neuritis: How MS Can Affect Your VisionHow MS cam affect the optic nerve and cause vision trouble.

What Is the Uhthoff Phenomenon?Uhthoff’s phenomenon is most commonly a symptom of MS, though it can also coincide with other optic nerve disorders.

Symptoms of Multiple SclerosisHow and when symptoms like vision trouble and numbness and tingling are commonly seen.

Multiple Sclerosis and Vision ProblemsVision problems are pretty common for people with MS. The symptoms usually come and go on their own.

Optic Neuritis: How MS Can Affect Your VisionHow MS cam affect the optic nerve and cause vision trouble.

What Is the Uhthoff Phenomenon?Uhthoff’s phenomenon is most commonly a symptom of MS, though it can also coincide with other optic nerve disorders.

Ataxia and MSAtaxia is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) that affects about 80% of people with the disease.

MS and Breathing ProblemsWhen you’re living with multiple sclerosis (MS), there’s a chance you might have trouble breathing.

Multiple Sclerosis and FatigueAccording to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 80% of people with MS have fatigue.

Fight MS FatigueMultiple sclerosis (MS) can sometimes sap your energy, but it doesn't have to stop you from doing what you love.

What Is Dysesthesia (Multiple Sclerosis Pain)?Dysesthesia means "abnormal sensation." It's usually a painful burning, prickling, or aching feeling.

What Is the MS Hug?If you have multiple sclerosis, you might have felt a band of pain around your torso. It’s often called the “MS hug.”

Lhermitte’s Sign: What Is It?Lhermitte’s sign, or barber chair sign, is often one of the symptoms that people mention when they’re first diagnosed with MS.

Spasticity and MS: How to Control Your MusclesMany people with multiple sclerosis have stiff muscles and spasms, a condition called spasticity.

MyoclonusMyoclonus is sudden, uncontrollable muscle spasms. They can be normal or they may be a sign of MS, dementia, or Parkinson's.

How to Recognize an MS AttackDuring an attack, some symptoms you’ve had may get worse, or you could have new ones. How do you know you’re having one?

Causes & Risks

Possible Causes of Multiple SclerosisIt's not known what causes MS. Many reasons could be at play, including your genes, where you live, and the air you breathe.

Your Genes and Multiple Sclerosis (MS)In basic terms, scientists simply don’t know what causes multiple sclerosis, or MS. Your genes play at least some part.

Epstein-Barr Virus and MS: What’s the Link?MS doesn’t have a cure, but strong evidence shows that viruses may trigger the process, especially Epstein-Barr virus.

MS and Diabetes: What to KnowMS and diabetes are connected because they share some of the same symptoms, and they might have some of the same causes.

Possible Causes of Multiple SclerosisIt's not known what causes MS. Many reasons could be at play, including your genes, where you live, and the air you breathe.

Your Genes and Multiple Sclerosis (MS)In basic terms, scientists simply don’t know what causes multiple sclerosis, or MS. Your genes play at least some part.

Epstein-Barr Virus and MS: What’s the Link?MS doesn’t have a cure, but strong evidence shows that viruses may trigger the process, especially Epstein-Barr virus.

MS and Diabetes: What to KnowMS and diabetes are connected because they share some of the same symptoms, and they might have some of the same causes.

Who Gets MS?Studies have shown that some people have a higher chance of forming the multiple sclerosis based on certain criteria.

Tests & Diagnosis

Treatment

Treatments for Multiple SclerosisAlthough there's not yet a cure for MS, there are many effective medications to help you manage the disease.

Managing Multiple Sclerosis With Kesimpta: What You Need to KnowKesimpta targets a part of your immune system known as B cells. Kesimpta is a medicine used to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

MS Medication OptionsThese are drugs that have been shown to slow the progression of MS.

Treating Multiple Sclerosis with VumerityLearn about Vumerity for MS, including its benefits, side effects, and helpful tips for managing treatment.

Treatments for Multiple SclerosisAlthough there's not yet a cure for MS, there are many effective medications to help you manage the disease.

MS Medication OptionsThese are drugs that have been shown to slow the progression of MS.

Treating Multiple Sclerosis with VumerityLearn about Vumerity for MS, including its benefits, side effects, and helpful tips for managing treatment.

Surgeries and Procedures for MSIf medication doesn’t work or has side effects you can’t tolerate, your doctor might suggest surgery or another procedure.

How Your MS Treatment May Change Over TimeAs your multiple sclerosis progresses, your therapies may need to change along with it.

Briumvi to Treat Relapsing MSBriumvi stops the B cells from attacking myelin, which prevents MS from progressing and relapsing.

The Costs of MSMS can be expensive to treat, and disease-modifying therapies are the largest piece of the cost puzzle.

Experimental Treatments for MSWhat’s on the horizon for people with multiple sclerosis?

Latest Research on MSCutting-edge treatments make it possible to live better with multiple sclerosis (MS) than ever before.

Are Off-Label Drugs Safe for Treating MS?Your doctor might suggest going off-label if approved drugs aren't safe for you.

Zeposia for Multiple SclerosisMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.Zeposia is part of a newer class of medicines called sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators. These medicines work by targeting immune cells, called lymphocytes.

Is My MS Treatment Working?You may need a doctor to find out if your main MS treatment -- your disease-modifying drug -- is working.

Tysabri TherapyNatalizumab (Tysabri) treats relapsing forms of MS. It lessens flare frequency and keeps physical disabilities from worsening.

Imuran for MSImuran (azathioprine) is used to slow the progression of MS by suppressing the body's immune system.

Interferon Beta DrugsInterferon beta drugs -- similar to proteins produced naturally by the body -- reduce the frequency of exacerbations.

Cytoxan TherapyCytoxan suppresses the immune system. It slows progression by keeping white blood cells from attacking the central nervous system.

Stem Cell Therapies for MSStem cell transplantation has been used to treat RRMS. But more research is needed to know how well this works.

Understanding Disease-Modifying Therapies for Relapsing Multiple SclerosisDisease modifying therapies slow the progression of the disease, reduce relapse frequency and severity and prevent new lesions from growing.

How to Treat and Prevent an MS Flare-UpIf you feel fine for weeks or months but your MS symptoms pop up again, you probably have a relapse or flare-up.

What Are Glucocorticoids?Glucocorticoids are medicines that fight inflammation and work with your immune system to treat a range of health problems.

Steroids for MS FlaresIf your multiple sclerosis flares up, steroids can treat your symptoms quickly.

Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis) for MSPlasma exchange, also known as plasmapheresis, is a way to "clean" your blood, similar to kidney dialysis.

Medications for MS-Related FatigueIf you have multiple sclerosis (MS), you might feel very fatigued from time to time.

How to Manage Your Multiple Sclerosis PainEach person with MS can have different levels of pain that can happen on different parts of the body.

MS ‘Zingers’: Tips for Dealing With the PainSudden pains are common with MS. You might get a shocking, burning, squeezing, stabbing, cold, or prickly feeling out of nowhere.

MS and Baclofen TherapyBaclofen (Gablofen, Lioresal) is a medication that treats stiff muscles and spasms, a condition called spasticity.

Botulinum Toxin for MSBotulinum toxin (Botox) helps people with MS who have spasticity in their arms.

Ampyra and Multiple SclerosisMost people with MS have trouble walking. Dalfampridine (Ampyra) is a medication that helps you get around more easily.

Alternative and Complementary Treatments for MSMS has many medical therapies. Some people look for other remedies, like acupuncture, yoga, relaxation, herbal drugs, or massage.

Rehab Therapies to Treat MSDifferent rehab therapies target the way MS changes your life. They help you stay independent and handle challenges you may face.

Vitamins and Supplements for MSIf you have multiple sclerosis (MS), you may wonder if vitamins, supplements, and herbs can help you feel better.

Can Medical Marijuana Help Your MS?If your MS treatment isn’t giving you the relief you want, you may be curious about how medical marijuana might help you.

What to Know About CBD and MSMore research is needed, but scientists think CBD may help ease MS symptoms.

Can Vitamin D Help MS?Evidence suggests that getting enough vitamin D might protect against MS by preventing your immune system from attacking itself.

Massage and Multiple SclerosisA great massage can help melt away stress and relax muscles. It may also ease certain multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms.

PoNS Device for Multiple SclerosisCould a new device called a portable neuromodulation stimulator (PoNS) help improve your mobility and balance with MS?

Living With

Tips for Living With MSA long-lasting condition like multiple sclerosis can affect your life in many ways.

Self-Care for MS SymptomsThere’s no at-home remedy for MS. But there are things you can do to feel better and ease your symptoms.

Colds and Flu When You Have MSA cold or flu is no fun for anyone, but if you have multiple sclerosis (MS), it can mean extra trouble.

Can I Get Vaccines if I Have MS?Years ago, people worried that some vaccines caused MS. Studies showed that this wasn’t true. Yet some shots may cause a relapse.

Tips for Living With MSA long-lasting condition like multiple sclerosis can affect your life in many ways.

Self-Care for MS SymptomsThere’s no at-home remedy for MS. But there are things you can do to feel better and ease your symptoms.

Colds and Flu When You Have MSA cold or flu is no fun for anyone, but if you have multiple sclerosis (MS), it can mean extra trouble.

Can I Get Vaccines if I Have MS?Years ago, people worried that some vaccines caused MS. Studies showed that this wasn’t true. Yet some shots may cause a relapse.

Multiple Sclerosis and SleepPeople with multiple sclerosis often have trouble sleeping soundly, but the problems may not be due to the disease itself.

MS in the Fall and WinterIf you have a condition like MS, cold temps can make your symptoms worse and make you flat-out uncomfortable.

How to Manage Heat Sensitivity With MSWhen you have MS, even a small rise in body temperature -- about 0.5 degrees F -- can make your symptoms worse.

Does Your Diet Affect Your MS?There is no such thing as a special “MS diet” that has been proven to improve symptoms.

What Is the Wahls Protocol Diet for MS?If you have MS, a healthy diet can help you feel your best. But experts don't know for sure whether special diets eases symptoms.

The Keto Diet and MSThe ketogenic diet may be a safe and effective way to help manage multiple sclerosis (MS), with your doctor’s guidance.

Can Intermittent Fasting Help MS?Some early studies suggest intermittent fasting might improve MS symptoms by calming the overactive immune response.

Why Your Weight May Change With MSWeight changes are common with MS. The number on your scale may fluctuate, depending on things like fatigue, depression, or meds.

Multiple Sclerosis and ExerciseExercise can help ease multiple sclerosis symptoms, but you have to be careful if you want your workouts to work for you.

Working Out MS-Related FatigueExercise is a great remedy for MS fatigue and one of the most important parts of your treatment.

Multiple Sclerosis and DepressionWhen you're managing the symptoms of MS, it's natural that you might find there are times you feel down.

MS and Your JobAfter you're diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, you may worry about how your condition could affect your work life.

How to Find an MS-Friendly JobSimple changes at your workplace and help from job counselors can keep you on your career path when you have MS.

How to Talk to Your Kids About MSOnce you learn you have MS, it may take you some time to adjust to the disease. The same goes for your children.

MS and Your RelationshipsMS can take a toll on your personal relationships. Here are tips to help you maintain healthy relationships.

Sex & MS: Maintaining IntimacyHere are some things you can do to improve sexual function and intimacy when you have MS.

Mobility & Assistive Devices

Assistive Devices for MSAssistive devices can make life with MS easier. They help with walking, dressing, and bathing, and help you use less energy.

Assistive Technology for MSMany gadgets and technology solutions are on the market that can help people with MS keep independence in their homes.

Make Your Home Work for You When You Have MSMS can change how well you move around and get things done. You may have to tweak how you do daily tasks to make them easier.

Home Safety When You Have MSIf your MS symptoms are making it hard for you to move around, it may be time to make a few changes to your home.

Assistive Devices for MSAssistive devices can make life with MS easier. They help with walking, dressing, and bathing, and help you use less energy.

Assistive Technology for MSMany gadgets and technology solutions are on the market that can help people with MS keep independence in their homes.

Make Your Home Work for You When You Have MSMS can change how well you move around and get things done. You may have to tweak how you do daily tasks to make them easier.

Home Safety When You Have MSIf your MS symptoms are making it hard for you to move around, it may be time to make a few changes to your home.

Driving and MS: How to Stay SafeMS can make driving a challenge. It can affect your vision, memory, reflexes, and how well you move your arms and legs.

How to Handle Fall Risks When You Have MSThe symptoms of MS, such as trouble with mobility, problems with your senses, and drug side effects, raise your odds for a fall.

Complications

Complications From Multiple SclerosisYou can develop complications along with your multiple sclerosis. They can range from mild to severe.

Conditions You May Have Along With MSWith MS, you're more likely to have certain other medical conditions, such as depression, high blood pressure, and lung disease.

How MS Affects the BrainOver time, about half of people with MS can have cognitive problems. That means poor focus, slowed thinking, or fuzzy memory.

How MS Affects the CerebellumCommonly, MS can affect a part of your brain called the cerebellum. Damage here can leave you with a wide range of symptoms.

Complications From Multiple SclerosisYou can develop complications along with your multiple sclerosis. They can range from mild to severe.

Conditions You May Have Along With MSWith MS, you're more likely to have certain other medical conditions, such as depression, high blood pressure, and lung disease.

How MS Affects the BrainOver time, about half of people with MS can have cognitive problems. That means poor focus, slowed thinking, or fuzzy memory.

How MS Affects the CerebellumCommonly, MS can affect a part of your brain called the cerebellum. Damage here can leave you with a wide range of symptoms.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) TremorsMany people with MS have a form of tremor they can’t control, in different parts of their bodies, like their head, arms, or legs.

Dizziness and Vertigo in MSAbout 1 in 3 people with MS say they feel dizzy from time to time.

MS and Trigeminal NeuralgiaTrigeminal neuralgia, which is a type of chronic nerve pain in your face, is common with multiple sclerosis (MS).

MS and SeizuresIf you have multiple sclerosis (MS), you may be more likely to have seizures than those who don’t have MS.

MS and DementiaCognitive impairment is a common symptom with MS. Up to 60% of people with MS have some type of cognitive function symptoms.

MS and Bladder Control ProblemsTrouble with bladder control is common for people with MS. But it doesn’t have to take over your life.

MS and Bowel ProblemsYour bathroom habits may not be the same as before with MS. You may have more or fewer bowel movements, or it may be harder to go.

Speech and Swallowing Problems From MSPeople with MS often have trouble swallowing, a problem called dysphagia. It can also lead to speech problems.

Can MS Cause Mood Swings?Symptoms of MS can vary widely, because it’s not clear how and where the disease will attack. Mood swings are a common response.

Sexual Dysfunction and MSSexual dysfunction is a common symptom and complication of MS. The good news is you don’t have to put up with symptoms.

MS and Sleep ApneaMS itself can make you tired. Or you could have another disorder that makes it hard for you to sleep.

Caregiving & Support

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