Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. In the UK, more than 150,000 people have MS and each year over seven thousand people are newly diagnosed. This means around 1 in every 400 people in the UK lives with MS, and each week around 135 people are diagnosed with MS. MS is about two and a half times more common in women than men, and people from all ethnic backgrounds can develop the condition.

It is a lifelong condition, but treatment can help manage it.  It is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, that is, a condition in which the body attacks itself by mistake. MS is an unpredictable disease that affects people differently. Some people with MS may have only mild symptoms.

Common Symptoms of MS

MS symptoms vary from person to person. The most common symptoms include:

Fatigue (extreme tiredness).

Vision problems, such as blurred or double vision or eye pain.

Numbness or tingling sensations in various parts of the body.

Balance issues, dizziness, or lack of coordination.

Muscle cramps, spasms, and stiffness.

Frequent urination or loss of control over bladder.

Memory or concentration problems.

Sexual issues, such as vaginal dryness or erectile dysfunction.

How to test for MS?

If your GP suspects MS, they will refer you to a Neurologist (a Specialist in brain and nerve conditions). During your appointment, the Neurologist will ask about your symptoms. There is no single test to diagnose MS, but you may undergo a series of tests, including:

Movement, coordination, vision, balance, and reflex checks.

Blood tests.

An MRI scan to look for nerve damage in the brain or spinal cord.

A lumbar puncture (a sample of spinal fluid taken from your lower back).

Tests to measure how fast messages from your eyes or ears reach your brain.

Different Types of MS

There are three main types of MS, and they affect people differently. Your Neurologist may monitor your symptoms over time to determine which type you have.

Relapsing-remitting MS

Characterised by flare-ups of worsening symptoms followed by periods of recovery or symptom improvement.

Over time, this type may progress into secondary progressive MS.

Secondary progressive MS

Symptoms are constantly present and gradually worsen over time.

This type can follow relapsing-remitting MS.

Primary progressive MS

Symptoms worsen steadily over time, without periods of remission.

This type is less common than the other two.

Treatment

While there is no cure for MS, treatments can help slow its progression and alleviate symptoms. The type of treatment will depend on the kind of MS you have and your specific symptoms. You may need different treatments as the condition progresses.

Common types of support include:

Managing fatigue with advice and strategies.

Physiotherapy and exercises to address movement and muscle pain.

Mobility aids (walking sticks, frames, wheelchairs) and home adaptations (stair lifts, railings).

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety, Depression, and fatigue.

Cognitive rehabilitation to improve memory, concentration, and mood.

Treatments for bladder and bowel issues.

Support for sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, or low libido.

Impact of MS on Daily Life

MS affects everyone differently. For some, the condition has a mild impact, allowing them to continue working and engaging in everyday activities. For others, MS can be more severe, affecting mobility and daily life. In such cases, you may need mobility aids or assistance at home.

As treatments improve, those diagnosed with MS today can expect a better quality of life than in the past. Although life expectancy for people with MS may still be a few years shorter than average, most people with MS live into old age.

Further Information

Living with MS can be physically and emotionally challenging. In addition to support from your Doctor and MS Nurse, you might find it helpful to connect with others who have MS, either through local support groups or online communities.

National Charities Offering Support: