Multiple Sclerosis
25 March 2010
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis attacks the central nervous system. CNS consists of the brain, the spinal cord, and optic nerves. This is an often disabling disease. It can start with vision problems and get as brutal as loss of feeling in the limbs. Every symptom from MS varies in every person who is diagnosed with it. Although it is more common in women than in men by almost three times, it is proven that there are no two people that have the exact same experiences with MS.
There is no one cause to Multiple Sclerosis. Several different factors can be said to be the foundation of this disease. Immunology, epidemiology, and genetic studies are being worked on. Scientists have certain theories on these causes and effects. One reason is thought to be immunologic. This means MS involves an autoimmune process -- response from the body's immune system that is directed against something called the myelin in the CNS. Exact antigens and immune cells are still unknown but tests are still ongoing, bringing scientists closer to cures. Another reason for MS might be environmental. This disease seems to happen more often in places further away from the equator, as in way north or way south. In places closer to the equator most humans get more natural vitamin D from the sun when people who live further away would normally get less amounts of sunlight. The possible exposure to sunlight is being factored in as a possible cause. The last cause that is being tested is genetic reasons. MS is not hereditary but, being in close relation to someone who has it, such as brother to sister or parent to child, has a higher risk of developing the disease between the ages of 20 and 50. Studies of age, gender and ethnic background are also being used to understand the reason for this statistic.
Clusters of MS have been found through out the world. In places like the Faroe Islands, El Paso, TX, Galion, OH and a few other regions Multiple...