What is Multiple Sclerosis?

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

MS is thought to be an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS).  The CNS consists of the brain, spinal cord, and the optic nerves.  Surrounding and protecting the nerve fibers of the CNS is a fatty tissue called myelin, which helps nerve fibers conduct electrical impulses.

In MS, myelin is lost in multiple areas, leaving scar tissue called sclerosis.  These damaged areas are also known as plaques or lesions.  Sometimes the nerve fiber itself is damaged or broken.

Myelin not only protects nerve fibers, but makes their job possible.  When myelin or the nerve fiber is destroyed or damaged, the ability of the nerves to conduct electrical impulses to and from the brain is disrupted, and this produces the various symptoms of MS.

For information on the Symptoms of Multiple Clerosis and other pertinent information, please click here...

MS Helpful Links:
National Multiple Sclerorsis Society
MS Foundation Donate in Honor & Memory
The Montel Williams MS Foundation
Clay Walker Multiple Sclerosis Foundation