Understanding MS

Get to Know Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong condition affecting the central nervous system (CNS)-the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. MS disrupts the normal flow of electrical signals by damaging the protective myelin sheath around nerves. This can lead to a wide variety of symptoms, which may come and go or progress over time. 

Every person’s experience with MS is unique, making understanding and support essential for living well with the condition

What You’ll Find in This Section

This section provides a comprehensive overview of multiple sclerosis, guiding you from the basics through to diagnosis.

What is MS?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS), disrupting the flow of information between the brain and body. Symptoms can vary widely from person to person, making each experience unique.

Symptoms

MS symptoms can be complex and sometimes invisible, making diagnosis challenging. Continue reading to learn about possible early symptoms and what to do about them.

How is MS Diagnosed

Diagnosing multiple sclerosis (MS) can be complex, as there is no single test to confirm the condition. Instead, diagnosis is based on a combination of medical history, clinical symptoms, neurological examinations, and specific tests to rule out other conditions and confirm MS.

Waiting for a Diagnosis

Waiting for a diagnosis or receiving a new diagnosis can be a stressful and uncertain time. Many people describe it as feeling “in a period of not knowing” — experiencing symptoms without yet knowing exactly what’s causing them.

Facts about MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex neurological condition that affects the central nervous system. Here are some key facts to help you understand MS and its impact in New Zealand and worldwide.

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