Can create problems with coordination or eyesight or a reduction in strength. It also can cause strange sensations. Interferon treatments developed in the past 10 years can reduce inflammation in the spinal column and cut the number of MS attacks by 50 percent, limiting the damage done by the disease. Damage done by attacks can accumulate and disable the patient. Varies by patient.
Early detection can permit aggressive treatment, which can limit the damage done by attacks.
Patients can go for long periods of time with no visible effects. There is currently no cure. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic have diagnosed the physical ailment afflicting Reds pitcher Stan Belinda as multiple sclerosis. Dr. John Noseworthy of the renowned medical institution in Rochester, Minn., examined Belinda and said the disease was caught in its early stages, which will aid in his treatment. It's something I'm not going to comment on right now.