Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological condition in young adults in the UK, affecting around 100,000 people.
There are three main types of MS:
- Relapsing remitting MS
- Secondary progressive MS
- Primary progressive MS
About the Disease
MS is a condition of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). The central nervous system controls the body’s actions and activities, such as movement and balance. Each nerve fibre in the central nervous system is surrounded by a substance called myelin. Myelin helps messages from the brain to travel quickly and smoothly to the rest of the body. In MS, the myelin becomes damaged. This disrupts the transfer of these messages.
Who is Affected
MS can occur at any age, but symptoms are mostly first seen between the ages of 20 and 40. Women are more than twice as likely to develop MS as men.
Outlook
MS is a lifelong condition, but it is not terminal. Most people with MS can expect to live as long as someone without the condition. However, a minority of patients (about 20%) with MS have a considerably shortened life.
If you have MS and need additional help or if you are concerned about MS and would like more information contact either your doctor or us at Mediterranean Quality Care Services. We can provide equipment and hands on practical help to make life easier for you.
This information was taken in part from http://www.nhs.uk/
Disclaimer
All content on this website is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Always consult your own GP if you’re in any way concerned about your health.
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