Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition in which the immune system of the body does not respond normally, and instead, starts working against the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS comprises the optic nerves, brain, and the spinal cord and is supposed to work in tandem with the immune system. However, in this condition, it does not work as it should.
As opposed to its usual functioning, the central nervous system gets inflamed by the immune system as the latter tries to ward off any potential medical problem. Multiple sclerosis ends up damaging a fatty substance known as myelin which surrounds the nerve fibers. The myelin is essential for sending messages and communication for the normal functioning of the body. It is important to note that myelin is the insulating sheath responsible for speeding up impulses when the body is in danger. Hence, the person faces problems in carrying out regular movements because of this condition.
Causes of multiple sclerosis
Let’s look at the causes of multiple sclerosis categorized by the different types of factors:
Immunological factors
Certain types of immune cells may trigger multiple sclerosis. It is considered as the main cause of MS wherein the myelin is directly affected. There is ongoing research to zero down on the specific cells causing this condition.
Environmental factors
There are a few environmental factors which may put a person at a higher risk of getting MS. People living far away from the equator, people with low vitamin D, individuals whose are obese, and people who smoke regularly may be at a relatively higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis.
Genetic factors
While MS is not a genetic disorder, there is still a risk that parents may pass it on to their children. For instance, on an average, one out of 750-1,000 individuals in a family are at the risk of developing MS. However, in the case of identical twins, when one of the twins has MS, the chance of the other one getting it is one out of four.
Infectious factors
Some viruses and bacteria have been known to increase the risk of multiple sclerosis. For instance, people affected with Epstein-Barr virus may be at a higher risk of getting MS.
Types of MS
There are four different types of multiple sclerosis which include the following:
Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)
It is the first episode characterized by neurological symptoms which may be a result of the damaged myelin sheath and inflammation occurring in the CNS. Typically, this episode lasts for 24 hours, but it may or may not lead to an individual developing multiple sclerosis.
Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)
Being the most common course of the disease, this particular type is characterized by a specific type of attacks, which may show new or progressing neurological symptoms. These attacks are also known as exacerbations or relapses, and they may be succeeded by periods of recovery.
Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS)
Initially, this type of multiple sclerosis follows the same course as RRMS. Most people who suffer through RRMS are eventually affected by SPMS.
Primary Progressive MS (PPMS)
Under this type, MS starts to worsen right from the onset of the symptoms and progresses rapidly. It may not show any early remissions or relapses.
