Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of each attack. Episodes can last for days, weeks, or months. These episodes do not always have persistent symptoms, at times multiple sclerosis goes into remission. Fever, hot baths, sun exposure, and stress can trigger or worsen attacks. The disease may continue to get worse without periods of remission. Nerves in any part of the brain or spinal cord may be damaged; patients with multiple sclerosis can have symptoms in many parts of the body. Individuals may experience symptoms in their muscles, bowel, and bladder, eyes, speech and swallowing problems, and numbness, tingling, or pain.

There is no known cure for multiple sclerosis at this time. However, there are therapies that may slow the disease. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and help you maintain a normal quality of life. There are various medications used to slow the progression, taken on a long-term basis and prescribed by a physician.