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Published on: 8th September 2026
Published on: 7th September 2026
Published on: 2nd September 2026
Published on: 11th September 2026
Published on: 9th September 2026
Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord).
It occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, the protective coating surrounding nerve fibres. This damage causes scarring (sclerosis) and disrupts, slows or blocks signals between the brain and body.
Around 150,000 people live with MS in the UK, with roughly 135 new diagnoses every week.
MS is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 and is about 2.5 times more common in women than men.
Nerve damage can happen anywhere in the central nervous system and symptoms vary from person to person. Common early signs of MS include:
Whilst the exact cause is unknown, medical experts believe it results from a combination of factors:
Genetics: Whilst it is not directly hereditary, certain genes can increase susceptibility.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Exposure to EBV (the virus behind glandular fever) is strongly linked to triggering MS.
Environment and Vitamin D: MS is more prevalent in regions farther from the equator, like the UK. Low Vitamin D levels are linked with higher susceptibility to autoimmune conditions.
In the UK, only a neurologist can diagnose MS. They use several tests to assess nerve damage and rule out other conditions:
MRI scan: Looks for lesions or scarring in the brain and spinal cord.
Lumbar puncture: Samples cerebrospinal fluid to check for specific inflammatory proteins.
Evoked Potentials (EPs): Measure the speed of electrical responses along nerve pathways.
Blood tests: Excludes other conditions with overlapping symptoms.
Whilst there is currently no cure, MS is managed through:
Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs): Medications that help reduce inflammation and lower the frequency of relapses.
Lifestyle: Moderate exercise, balanced nutrition, stress management and good sleep habits.
Therapies and support: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy and peer support networks.
