But it is, devastatingly unpredictable. In multiple sclerosis, or MS, an immune system reaction causes a breakdown in the myelin layer, or coating. When any part of this myelin coating is destroyed, nerve impulses to and from the brain are distorted or interrupted. MS can strike anyone at any age-but most are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 and more women than men are affected. MS randomly attacks the central nervous system, wearing away control over the body.
Extreme fatigue can make simple activities of daily living a struggle.
People with MS never know when attacks will occur, how long they will last, or how much of their abilities will be left when the attack is over. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to ending the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. A national board evaluates all projects world wide to coordinate the research needed to find a cure for multiple sclerosis. The National MS Society is the largest non-governmental funder of MS research in the world and will continue to expand our efforts to ensure that the best and most promising research is funded. For the first time, recent advances have shown that we can treat MS-not just the symptoms, but the disease itself.