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Date Posted: 21:30:34 04/08/03 Tue
Author: hotmailbird
Subject: Multiple Sclerosis (BBC)

http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/awareness/ms.shtml

What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an incurable neurological condition, which usually strikes at the prime of life. It happens when myelin, the protective sheath surrounding all the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord, is damaged. It's estimated that 2,500,000 people in the world have MS - and, of those, 85,000 are in the UK. Around 50 people usually between 20 and 40 years of age are diagnosed every week.

What causes MS?
Medical research has uncovered many probable factors in MS, such as the environment, a genetic link, and a trigger virus. However the cause has yet to be conclusively identified.

The symptoms of MS?
Symptoms can range from mild and occasional illness to severe and rapid deterioration. Fortunately for most people with MS, the pain lies somewhere in between the two extremes. The most common symptoms include extreme weakness, slow speech, blurred vision, nerve pain in the face, ringing in the ears or hearing problems, pins and needles or numbness in the legs, feet, arms or hands, muscle pain, loss of memory and difficulty in concentrating. Some men with MS find it difficult to get an erection, and so a couple's sex life may also be affected.

Managing MS
The good news is that MS is manageable. Symptoms differ in severity from individual to individual. There are drugs that lessen and control specific symptoms plus physical therapies and practical or psychological techniques. Some people experience what's called remissions and relapses. These are periods when their symptoms disappear or get worse. For others their symptoms are there all the time. Mobility equipment, such as a wheelchair or a specially adapted car, can give back some sense of independence to those with more severe MS.

Where can I find out more about MS?
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (www.mssociety.org.uk) is dedicated to supporting people with MS and securing the care they need in their everyday lives. It also funds research into MS. The Society's services include respite and day care, physical therapies, campaigning and training, financial support and above all information. There are more than 370 MS branches, which work at local level to support people with MS in the community. Local groups can assist with home aids, home adaptations, mobility and other services. For more information on National MS Week call on 0808 800 8000.

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