Overview
Multiple Sclerosis or MS is a chronic demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that affects the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath that covers nerve fibres leading to permanent damage of the nerves.Signs and Symptoms
Numbness or weakness in the limbs or body, Optic neuritis, Bladder dysfunction, Erectile dysfunction, Constipation, Giddiness, Vertigo, Slurred speechCommon Causes
Immunological factors, Environmental factors, Genetics, InfectionRisk Factors
Age of 15 to 60 years, Female gender, Genetic factors, Family history, Infections like Epstein-Barr virus, Autoimmune disease, Climate, Vitamin D deficiency, SmokingInvestigation Techniques
MRI brain and spine, Cerebrospinal fluid examination by lumbar puncture, Blood tests to rule out other diseases, Fundoscopy and other eye examinationsTreatment and Prevention
Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and stop smoking, Disease modifying drugs, Symptomatic treatment, Intravenous immunoglobulin, Steroids