Home About MS Global MS Research Global MS News About MSIF Donate Home >> About MS About MS What is MS? Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system. It is normally diagnosed in people between the ages of 20 and 40, and affects almost twice as many women as men. There is no cure for MS, but treatments and specialists can help manage the symptoms. Diagnosis Diagnosing MS can be a complex process. There is no one test that shows whether someone has MS or not, so a neurologist will use a combination of tests and a clinical history. Read more Symptoms There are a wide range of symptoms associated with MS, including visual problems, fatigue, cognitive changes, physical weakness, movement problems, altered sensation and pain. Causes MS is thought to be an autoimmune disease which causes damage to myelin – a protective sheath surrounding nerve fibres of the central nervous system. It is likely to be triggered by a mix of factors. Read more Treatment and rehabilitation There are treatments available to slow down the disease process and to improve MS symptoms. Managing MS through rehabilitation and other therapies is also important. Types of MS Find out about the four main types of MS, each of which has different characteristics and disease course over time. Also read about less common types such as benign MS and childhood MS. Read more Day-to-day living with MS Read about how MS can sometimes affect your work, relationships, home and family life and how to minimise the impact it has on you and your loved ones. About MS News What is MS? Diagnosis Symptoms Causes Treatments Types of MS Day to day living with MS Publications and resources My story of MS Contact us Terms & Privacy Reuse Policy Report an inaccuracy Multiple Sclerosis International Federation Address: 3rd Floor Skyline House 200 Union Street London SE1 0LX MSIF is a charity and company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. Company No: 05088553. Registered Charity No: 1105321