- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease in which the body begins to attack itself, eventually impacting the brain, spinal cord and eyes.
- MS presents differently in everyone, making it harder to diagnose early on.
- Some individuals will have mild symptoms their whole life, while others will progress through all four stages of MS: CIS, RRMS, SPMS and PPMS.
- There is currently no cure for MS, and treatment focuses on reducing the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a serious neurological condition that is considered progressive — meaning the symptoms of the disease may get worse with time. Some patients diagnosed with MS eventually progress through all four known stages of the illness.
Today, MS remains a condition without a cure, but a lot of funds are being spent on research in the hopes of finding a cure. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society reported they received $41.7 billion in 2020 to fund their medical research.
Treatment focuses on helping patients recover quickly after a flare-up and manage their symptoms as they transition through the stages of multiple sclerosis.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune illness that impacts the central nervous system, usually including the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. People with MS may have problems with vision, muscle control, balance and other standard body functions.
Everyone who has multiple sclerosis experiences it differently. While this is considered a progressive, chronic disease, some only experience mild symptoms.