"FloridaMS.org"

What Is MS?
MS (Multiple Sclerosis) is a chronic (continuing) disease. For years it was believed MS affected as many as 350,000 people, but more recently it was determined the true number is closer to 2,500,000. The disease attacks the white matter (myelin) of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The central nervous system (CNS) receives nerve impulses from all parts of the body, and then sends out the appropriate responses such as moving, talking, seeing and feeling. MS is characterized by inflammation and scarring of the myelin in the brain or spinal cord. This is called a demyelinating condition. Myelin is a tissue that insulates the nerves. It allows the nerves to transmit impulses rapidly, and acts like plastic insulation on electrical wiring. MS damages (removes) myelin leaving lesions or scars called sclerosis. This damage interferes with nerve signals, preventing or slowing the signals down.

The majority of MS patients are Caucasians, with women developing the disease at a rate almost double that of men. Most cases occur in North America and Europe. It is interesting to note that MS occurs most frequently in countries farther from the equator. This is true in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

Every person with MS experiences different neurological impairments at varying levels, depending on the location and extent of the damage to the myelin. Needless to say, it can make life unpredictable.