Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. MS disrupts the way signals travel between your brain and your body, which can lead to problems with movement, vision, sensation and thinking. 

It happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering around nerve fibers, called myelin. Over time, this damage can slow or block communication between the brain and the rest of the body. 

There are different forms of MS, including relapsing types and primary progressive MS. Each type has its own challenges and everyone's MS journey is different. There is no cure for MS, but you may be able to control the disease with the right treatment and lead a full, active life.

Quick facts about multiple sclerosis 

• MS is a lifelong condition 
• It is not contagious 
• It most often begins between ages 20 and 50 
• Women are affected more often than men 
• Early treatment can help slow disease progression 

What causes MS?

The exact cause of MS is not fully understood. Researchers believe it develops from a combination of immune system dysfunction, genetic risk and environmental triggers. It’s not contagious. Your risk could be higher due to:

• Family history: MS is not directly inherited but having a close family member with the condition may increase your risk slightly.
• Environmental factors: Low vitamin D levels, smoking and prior infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) have been associated with an increased risk of MS.
• Age, gender and location: MS is more common in people aged 20 to 50, affects women more often than men and is found more often in northern regions.

Learn more about the causes and risk factors for MS. 

What are symptoms of MS, and how is it diagnosed? 

MS symptoms vary depending on which nerves are affected and how damaged they are, so people with MS may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms can occur in episodes, called relapses or flares, or get worse more steadily, depending on the type of MS.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue 
• Vision problems, including blurred or double vision 
• Muscle weakness or stiffness 
• Numbness or tingling 
• Balance or walking difficulties 
• Cognitive changes, sometimes called “brain fog” 
• Bladder problems 

How is multiple sclerosis diagnosed?

There is no single test for MS. Diagnosis is based on medical history, neurological exam findings and evidence of lesions in different areas of the central nervous system over time. 

It can be hard to diagnose MS but finding it early matters. Starting treatment early can help keep MS from getting worse quickly and control symptoms better.

Health care providers may use these tests to diagnose MS: 

• MRI scans: This imaging test checks for lesions or damage in the brain and spinal cord.
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): This test examines cerebrospinal fluid for signs of inflammation.
• Neurological exam: This exam checks your coordination, vision, reflexes and strength.
• Blood tests: Testing your blood can help rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

Learn more about MS symptoms and diagnosis.

How is MS treated?

MS looks different for everyone, so your care team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, how quickly the disease is getting worse and your lifestyle goals.

Treatment may include: 

• Disease-modifying therapies to help slow progression 
• Medications to manage relapses 
• Treatments to reduce muscle stiffness, pain or fatigue 
• Physical and occupational therapy 
• Mental health support

Your care team will monitor your progress and make changes to your care plan if needed.

Learn more about treating MS. 

What’s living with MS like?

Living with multiple sclerosis often means managing unpredictable symptoms and planning for changes in energy, mobility and daily activities. It can help to find ways to manage fatigue, get around more easily and stay active. Many people with MS continue working, raising families and staying active with the right support.

You’ll want to build a strong care team that includes specialists and other health care providers, and you may want to connect with other people who are living with MS in support groups.

Learn more about living with MS.

Connect with care at Banner Health

At Banner Health, our neurologists specialize in diagnosing and treating multiple sclerosis. We offer advanced imaging, access to disease-modifying therapies and coordinated rehabilitation services - all in one place.  

If you are experiencing new neurological symptoms or have recently been diagnosed with MS, schedule an appointment with a Banner Health specialist to start building your care plan.