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WHAT IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?
MS affects the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord which are connected to cranial nerves (12 pairs) and spinal nerves (31 pairs). These network of nerves signal electrical and chemical messages to each other at great speed, controlling body functions.
Networks that send messages to the CNS in response to stimuli such as heat or pain are known as sensory nerves. Networks that transmit messages in the other direction from the CNS to peripheral organs and tissues are known as motor nerves.
In MS, the myelin, the fatty protective sheath that surrounds the nerve fibres, becomes damaged. This process causes the messages going to and from the brain and spinal cord to become distorted or slowed down, resulting in ms symptoms.
It can take some time to diagnose the condition as it takes several symptoms over different periods of time before further tests are undertaken and a diagnosis made.
Roughly 1 in 750 are diagnosed with the condition and more women have the condition than men.
Some people experience ‘attacks’ which are the sudden onset of symptoms, but which fade after a few days or weeks. Sometimes medication or additional therapy is required to help the process. Others do not experience these attacks but do notice some deterioration over the years, but it is impossible to know what is going to happen in future years.
Symptoms are very varied and differ in everyone, but there are common trends and it is crucial to ensure that facilities are available to help them when required. Whether this be therapy, information or just support for the person with MS, their carer or other family members.
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