Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, degenerative neurological disease that affects the central nervous system which includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves.
In MS, the body’s immune system attacks the protective fatty material or sheath, known as myelin, which covers the nerve. Myelin protects and insulates nerves so that electrical messages from the brain can be sent to the rest of the body quickly and efficiently.
As the nerves become exposed and scarred, the brain cannot communicate effectively with the rest of the body, leading to a range of symptoms from motor control, neurological, neuropsychological, fatigue to bladder and bowel dysfunction.
While there is no known cure for MS, therapeutic and technological advances can help to manage MS symptoms. A coordinated multidisciplinary care approach can help people living with MS to live well, which is why MS Society SA & NT is dedicated to supporting you throughout your journey.
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis
Depending on which part of the central nervous system is affected and to what degree – no two people will experience MS in the same way. Symptoms may be a combination of five major functional impairments.
Motor control
- Abnormal tone.
- Coordination problems.
- Heart problems.
- Hyper-tonicity.
- Imbalance and impaired upper and lower limb function.
- Impaired gait.
- Muscle weakness.
- Muscular spasms and tremors.
- Speech and verbal difficulties.
- Swallowing and breathing difficulties.
- Unsteady movements.
Neurological
- Dizziness and vertigo.
- Inability to regulate body temperature.
- Nerve pain and ongoing pain.
- Pins and needles.
- Visual disturbances.
Neuropsychological
- Anxiety.
- Brain fog.
- Changes in processing speed and ability.
- Cognitive impairment.
- Depression.
- Emotional changes.
- Impaired executive function.
- Impaired memory and concentration.
- Personality changes.
- Sleeping difficulties.
Fatigue
- Debilitating fatigue.
- Difficulty concentration or ability to complete tasks and work.
- Difficulty walking distances.
- Heat sensitivity and intolerance.
Bladder and bowel dysfunction
- Diarrhoea.
- Faecal impaction and constipation.
- Failure to store or empty the bladder.
- Incontinence.
- Nocturia.
- Sexual problems.
- Urgency.
Types of multiple sclerosis
Relapsing remitting MS (RRMS) is the most common form of MS, characterised by attacks or increased neurological activity followed by periods of complete or partial recovery, known as remission or relapses, that can last months or years.
Secondary progressive MS (SPMS) is a secondary phase of relapsing remitting MS that typically develops years or decades after the initial onset of disease. This form of MS is characterised by distinct relapses and periods of recovery decrease, replaced with a steady, worsening of symptoms over time.
Primary progressive MS (PPMS) is a form of MS characterised by the progressive worsening of symptoms from the beginning without periods of recovery or remissions.
Secondary progressive MS (SPMS) is a secondary phase of relapsing remitting MS that typically develops years or decades after the initial onset of disease. This form of MS is characterised by distinct relapses and periods of recovery decrease, replaced with a steady, worsening of symptoms over time.
Primary progressive MS (PPMS) is a form of MS characterised by the progressive worsening of symptoms from the beginning without periods of recovery or remissions.
Causes of multiple sclerosis
There is no known cause of MS, but many risk factors have been shown to contribute to its development.
Genetics
MS is not considered a genetic condition as not one single gene causes MS. Majority of people who develop MS have no previous family history of the disease. There are over 200 genetic changes which are associated with the development of MS, but they will only increase susceptibility to MS in combination with other risk factors.
Epstein-Barr virus
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been linked to the development of MS. It can trigger an immune response that predisposes someone to MS, rather than the virus itself directly causing the disease.
Geographic location
MS is found to be more common in areas farthest from the equator. However, geography isn't the only factor – prevalence of MS can differ widely even among people living in the same region.
For instance, in Australia, people living in Tasmania are twice as likely to develop MS as those living in northern Queensland.
Vitamin D
Numerous research studies have identified a correlation between vitamin D levels and MS risk. Vitamin D is produced via skin exposure to sunlight and low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of developing MS.
Smoking
Studies have shown that smoking significantly increases chances of developing MS. Smokers, and people exposed to second-hand smoke, are almost two times more likely to develop MS.
We’re here to help
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have lived with a MS condition for quite some time, our experienced team can offer you support, connection and care to help you live well.
