Manawatu Multiple Sclerosis Society

The nervous system is insulated by a protective covering called the myelin sheath, which serves a very similar function to the coating around electrical wires. In MS the myelin sheath is attacked by the immune system leaving scarring. This damage interferes with the transmission of signals between the brain and spinal cord and other parts of the body.

Some of the symptoms of MS can include changes in sensation such as loss of sensitivity (tingling & numbness), muscle spasms, difficulty with coordination & balance, speech or swallowing problems, visual problems, fatigue, chronic pain, and bladder or bowel problems.

While there is no cure for MS as yet, ongoing research in different areas yields hope that one day a cure will be found.