Multiple Sclerosis News

Hey everyone, im doing a 5 page research paper on the topic above. I really need help. I haven’t had much luck finding info about the phyisical and mental part of M.S. Could anyone provide a website or personal info please. And Thank You All In Advance.

M.S. occurs when a person develops plaques (or lesions) on the myelin sheath (the protective covering that surrounds your brain and spinal cord). These plaques slow down the nerve signals to different parts of the body.

The person’s symptoms depend on where the plaques form. Some M.S. sufferers are perfectly fine psychologically, but may have weakness or paralysis in an extremity. Others may walk ok, but notice double vision, slurred speech or severe depression. Again, it all depends on where the plaques are located.

I know plenty about MS, because I spent several years being examined for it (I’m lucky, and do not have it, but I have a good friend who does).

There are also several types of MS. Some are very progressive, moving rapidly and landing the sufferer in wheelchair (like Annette Funicello). Other people with MS have a more benign form of the disease (such as Montel Williams).

http://www.oprah.com/oprahradio/TV-Host-Montel-Williams-on-Multiple-Sclerosis

Below, I’ve also placed the link for the Mayo Clinic’s MS information. There are new treatments on the horizon, and early detection can prevent further damage to the nervous system.

Some interesting facts about this disease:
- It’s more common in people who were born in Northern Climates (Canada, Great Britain, the N.E. part of the U.S., and Scandinavian countries)
- Although both sexes can be affected, it’s more common in females with onset between the ages of 25 and 45… child bearing years).
- Autopsies have revealed that some people carried the disease their entire lives without being aware of it… this is because some cases are so mild, the person doesn’t suspect a problem and never sees a doctor.

I hope the links helped you. Good luck with your research project!