What is MS?

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Learn more about multiple sclerosis: symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective coating and around nerve fibers. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and body, leading to a wide range of symptoms.

Nearly one million people in the United States are living with MS, making it one of the most common neurological diseases. MS can appear at any age but most commonly manifests between the ages of 20 and 50 and affects women three times as often as men.

Quick facts about MS

1,000,000

Nearly one million people in the U.S. are living MS.

National MS Society

3

MS is 3 times more common in women than men.

National MS Society

20-50

Most people are diagnosed with MS between ages 20-50.

National MS Society

What are the signs and symptoms of MS?

Recognizing what the early signs of MS is critical for timely detection and intervention. While symptoms may differ from person to person, certain common indicators might suggest MS.

Common symptoms of multiple sclerosis

  • Fatigue
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Muscle weakness or stiffness
  • Heat intolerance
  • Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Bowel and bladder dysfunction
  • Vision problems (blurred vision, double vision, optic neuritis)
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Cognitive challenges (memory, concentration, processing)
  • Mood changes (depression, mood swings, anxiety)

What causes multiple sclerosis?

The exact cause of MS is unknown, but research suggests it results from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Risk factors for MS

  • Genetics: Family history may increase susceptibility
  • Environment: Lower sunlight exposure and vitamin D levels
  • Infections: Certain viruses (like Epstein-Barr virus)
  • Lifestyle: Smoking, obesity, and inactivity

Types of multiple sclerosis

MS can present in different forms, which affect how symptoms develop and progress:

  • Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS): Most common, involving flare-ups followed by recovery periods
  • Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS): Gradual worsening after initial relapsing phase
  • Primary Progressive MS (PPMS): Symptoms steadily worsen from the start
  • Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS): A first episode of symptoms that may lead to MS
Types of MS

How is MS diagnosed?

MS cannot be diagnosed with a specific symptom or single lab test. Instead, physicians rely on several strategies and diagnostic tests to confidently make a diagnosis and rule out other possible conditions. Diagnosing MS quickly and accurately is important as neurologic damage can occur in the early stages of MS.

Diagnostic criteria (McDonald Criteria)

To diagnose MS, providers look for:

  • Evidence of damage in two or more areas of the central nervous system
  • Evidence that damage occurred at different points in time
  • No other explanation for the symptoms

Tests used to diagnose MS

  • MRI scans: Identify lesions or scarring in the brain and spinal cord
  • Neurological exam: Assesses vision, strength, balance, reflexes, and coordination
  • Spinal fluid analysis: Detects MS-related immune markers
  • Evoked potential tests: Measure nerve signal response time
  • Blood tests: Rule out similar conditions like Lyme disease

Early diagnosis is critical to prevent long-term neurological damage and begin treatment as soon as possible.

How is MS treated?

While there is no cure for MS, treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and slow disease progression.

Medical treatments for MS

  • Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs)
  • Corticosteroids to treat relapses
  • Medications for symptom management (pain, fatigue, muscle stiffness)

Lifestyle and supportive care

  • Physical therapy to improve mobility and strength
  • Occupational therapy for daily activities
  • Speech therapy for communication challenges
  • Regular exercise and balanced nutrition
  • Stress management and adequate sleep

Understanding MS flare-ups (relapses)

Most people with MS experience flare-ups, also called attacks or relapses. These occur when inflammation causes new or worsening symptoms.

Common MS flare-up symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Vision changes
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Balance and coordination problems
  • Cognitive difficulties

Common triggers of MS flare-ups

  • Stress
  • Infections (such as flu or UTIs)
  • Heat or temperature changes
  • Poor sleep or exhaustion
Three people, including two women and a man, stand smiling and conversing around a medical cart in a hospital reception area. A reception desk with a computer and another person are visible in the background.

Expert MS care at Shepherd Center

At Shepherd Center, our experienced MS care team is highly skilled in diagnosing and distinguishing MS from similar conditions. We offer expert second opinions to confirm your diagnosis, as well as ongoing care, treatment adjustments, and personalized management plans once a diagnosis is established.

FAQs

MS is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the central nervous system.

Early symptoms include fatigue, numbness, vision changes, and difficulty walking.

Doctors diagnose MS using MRI scans, neurological exams, and lab testing.

There is no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow progression.

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