Multiple Sclerosis

The meaning of Multiple Sclerosis is "multiple scarring." It is a disease related to the central nervous system, brain and spinal cord and the majority of symptoms are neurological. Studies are showing, however, that a relationship may exist between the immune system and the body allowing normal defenses to act in a hostile manner. MS damages a substance called "myelin," which is a protective sheath that surrounds all nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.

The myelin sheath acts as a protective insulator assisting in the conduction of the electrical impulses between the brain and the spinal cord as well as the rest of the body. Damage to the myelin sheath results in electrical impulses slowing down which may then become distorted, affecting muscle movement. The damage continues deteriorating until the person dies or is totally debilitated.

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