Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects your central nervous system, which includes your brain, spinal cord and optic (visual) nerves. It affects the way information flows between your brain and your body. 

MS happens when your immune system mistakenly attacks the covering that protects your nerve fibers, which is called the myelin sheath. It causes inflammation, nerve damage and symptoms that are different for each person with MS.

There are different forms of 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.

What causes MS?

It’s not clear exactly what causes MS but it’s linked to immune system dysfunction. 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 infections like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may play a role.
• 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. 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: Feeling very tired is one of the most frequent and disabling symptoms.
• Loss of vision: You may notice blurry or double vision.
• Difficulty walking: Muscle weakness or spasms can affect your ability to walk.
• Numbness or tingling: You may notice these symptoms in your face, arms, legs or fingers.
• Brain fog: You may have trouble with memory and concentration.

How is MS diagnosed?

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.

Your plan may include:

• Medications that help relax your muscles and reduce fatigue
• Mental health support
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Nutrition and wellness

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 means you’ll need to adapt to challenges in everyday life. It can help to find ways to manage fatigue, get around more easily and stay active. 

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, we understand the physical and emotional challenges that you may face when you’re diagnosed with and being treated for MS. 

Our expert teams of neurologists, care coordinators, mental health professionals and physical, occupational and speech therapists work together to create a treatment plan centered around your needs. Reach out to a Banner Health expert to connect with the guidance and care you need.