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The brain, the commanding centre of the body, along with other functions, also receives information and sends orders to different parts of the body.  The orders from the brain go to the spinal cord to the rest of the body.  The brain and the spinal cord are called the Central Nervous System.  Different parts of the brain controls different functions.  The cells of the brain are called neurons.  Each neuron has a body and axon.  Neurons communicate with each other through axons.

There is a special material that covers the neuron called myelin.  The myelin in certain parts of the brain and spinal cord in patients of multiple sclerosis will be destroyed.  Hence the reason still remains a mystery.  The Myelin that covers the nerve will become inflamed and swollen and detached.  Whenever it is destroyed it leaves a scar on the axons.  The term sclerosis means scars means scars.  Since the myelin is destroyed, the communication between neurons becomes less effective.  This decrease in effectiveness is the cause of symptoms of multiple sclerosis. 

Even after destruction Myelin has the ability to repair itself.  However, he same myelin can become prone to inflammation at different times.  Sometimes the destruction can happen at different places.  This is why the disease is called multiple sclerosis. 

Types of Sclerosis:
Relapse remitting multiple sclerosis: Most patients almost 90% with the disease have this type of sclerosis.  The name Relapsing Remitting is self explanatory.  It is characterized by periods of worsening of symptoms, followed by periods of improvement. 

Progressive Multiple Sclerosis:og About 10% of patients have this type.  The disease keeps getting worse with no signs of improvement.  If left untreated, almost 50% of patients with relapse remitting sclerosis will contract progressive multiple sclerosis.

Causes:
• Some scientists believe that the cells of the immune system attack the myelin mistaking it for germs and foreign bodies.
• Certain types of viral infections are known to attack myelin cells.
• The cause is also believed to be genetic.

Symptoms:
The symptoms of multiple sclerosis depend on the area where the myelin is inflated or destroyed.  Early symptoms include:
• Numbing or tingling sensation is experienced in parts of the body, usually in the leg or arm.
• There is unexplained weakness, fatigue and dizziness.
• If the visual area is affected there is double vision, blurred vision and even blindness.

Note: Symptoms of multiple sclerosis is similar to other diseases.  Hence examination is necessary

To know about diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis, read the article on “Diagnosis and treatment of Multiple Sclerosis”