Multiple sclerosis is a neuro-degenerative disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective coating on nerves. Because of this, there is a disruption between the body’s limbs and the brain. Although it is not fatal, MS can be severely debilitating and can sharply decrease one’s quality of life. MS is much more common in women. Today we are going to discuss what MS affects, common symptoms, as well as ways to manage pain caused by it.

What does MS affect?
People with multiple sclerosis may experience coordination issues, loss of vision, weakness and chronic pain. Because the brain is unable to send messages to one’s body, their movement becomes impaired. They may know they need to move right to get out of the way of an upcoming, car but their brain is unable to send that signal to their legs to move before it’s too late.

Who does MS effect?
Multiple sclerosis is most common in middle-aged women of European descent.

What are common symptoms of MS?
Decreased bladder control, trouble focusing or decreased memory, blurred vision, tingling, and poor balance may all be symptoms of MS.

What causes MS?
Unfortunately, MS is a mystery to most doctors; they can’t seem to find a root cause. However, some studies show that smoking may increase your risk. It has also been found that MS often shows up after contracting a virus, such as Epstein-Barr.

If you think you may have MS or some other neurological disorder, contact your primary care physician today. Early detection is the best way to minimize complications.

To learn more about women’s health check out the Women’s Mind Body Wellness Summit. It contains 6 interviews by top female health professionals plus two workout videos and 3 bonus videos on mind-body wellness with MyHealthSpin Founder Lori-Ann Rickard.