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Frequently asked questions about MS

Frequently asked questions

What is MS?

In MS, the immune system, which usually helps fight disease, attacks and damages nerves in the brain and spinal cord. That’s why it’s called an autoimmune disease. MS can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on where the nerve damage occurs. (ref nd1)

What are the symptoms?

MS can cause many different symptoms. That’s because MS is caused by damage to the nerves in the brain or spinal cord. These nerves are involved in everything we do. If the nerves that are damaged are needed to help you move your legs, then your legs may feel wobbly when you stand up. If the nerves that help you see are damaged you might get blurred vision from time to time. Other common symptoms include numbness, tingling and loss of balance. (ref nd1)

Why did I get MS?

What causes MS is still unknown (ref nd11). Nothing that you did could have changed what has happened to you. It is possible that genetic factors that you inherit from your parents may make you more prone to MS. Environmental factors and viruses may also have a role to play in the development of the disease. Research is being done to find out more about what causes MS.

How will my MS progress?

This is a very difficult question to answer. MS affects everyone differently. Some people have just a few attacks of symptoms (relapses) and never get any further problems. But most people with MS will experience relapses from time to time, although these are usually interspersed with times when symptoms are not a problem (remissions). Over many years MS might leave some people with long term problems and disabilities. But it’s impossible to predict who will get these, or how bad they will be.

Are there treatments for MS?

Yes. Although there’s no cure for MS there are treatments to help control symptoms when they happen. There are also treatments to help prevent attacks and delay the progression of the disease.(ref nd9)

Do I have to tell my work about my MS?

No. There’s no legal requirement to tell your employer about your diagnosis unless you work in the armed forces, or on a plane or ship (ref nd12). However, could your MS have any impact on health and safety in the workplace (yours or others), if it could then you do need to tell your employer so that a risk asessment can be completed. You may want to talk to your employer about it if you need to take a lot of time off work, or are at all worried about how your work might be affected by MS. Employers can be very supportive.

Are there things I can do to help me stay healthy?

Eating a healthy balanced diet, taking regular exercise and keeping your weight within normal limits for your height are a good idea for everyone, especially if you have a long term condition like MS. Because MS can cause muscles weakness exercise can be especially beneficial by helping to strengthen your muscles. Some people find that stress triggers their symptoms. If this is the case with you, learning ways to manage stress may help prevent symptoms. Some people find yoga useful.

Are my children at risk of getting MS?

There’s some evidence that people who have a close relative with MS (sister or brother, parents or child) are more likely to get MS than someone who does not have MS in their family. But other factors, apart from genes, also seem to be important. Although it’s not exactly clear what these are, the genes you inherit from your parents are not the only things that determine whether you will get MS.

How do I find a support group in my area?

The following websites are good places to start:

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Where can I find out more about MS?

We offer many resources on this site to help you understand MS. To begin with, you may wish to explore our What is MS section. The section contains an overview of MS.

Did you know?

MS affects about three times as many women as men.

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Page last updated: 22 Jun 2010

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