Multiple Sclerosis Description: Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is an autoimmune disease that damages the myelin sheath that coats nerve cells, which impairs their communication. Symptoms: Many people with MS have problems with spasticity in the lower limbs, either as a sustained stiffness or as spasms that come and go, especially at night. Pain, weakness, fatigue and loss of coordination are also characteristic of MS. Number of Americans diagnosed: Approximately 300,000 Americans have MS. Long-term problems/treatments: As MS progresses, some patients develop bladder malfunctions, most commonly affecting urinary frequency, urgency, or incontinence. Physical therapy and exercise can help preserve remaining muscle function, and various aids such as foot braces, canes, and walkers can help patients remain independent and mobile. Though rarely fatal, MS is often progressive. There have been recent advances in treatment that can slow the progression of the disease but there is as yet no cure for MS. Directory List Choose an illness from the menu below: Select here Allergies Alzheimer's disease Arthritis Asthma Bipolar disorder Chronic back problems Chronic bronchitis Chronic obstructive        pulmonary disease Cirrhosis Depression Developmental disabilities Diabetes Emphysema Endometriosis Epilepsy Glaucoma Hearing impairment Heart disease Hepatitis C High blood pressure Human Immunodeficiency        Virus (HIV) Kidney disease Lou Gehrig's disease Lupus Lyme disease Migraine Multiple sclerosis Muscular Dystrophy Orthopedic Impairments Osteoporosis Paralysis of the extremities Parkinson's disease Psoriasis Schizophrenia Sinusitis Stroke Thyroid condition         Previous      Next Resources MS MOMS National Multiple Sclerosis Society The Multiple Sclerosis Assocation of America Home | Awareness | Patient Files | The Challenge | Your Stories | Outreach | Resources About the Program | About Fred Friendly Seminars | Our Partners | Site Map | Credits © 2001 Fred Friendly Seminars, Inc.