WHAT? Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disorder that strikes the central nervous system. It is called "multiple" because various areas of the brain and spinal cord are affected and it is called "sclerosis" since brain and nerve tissue become scarred (National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 2005).

Within the central nervous system, the axons (nerve fibers) are surrounded by a layer of fatty insulation called myelin. When a signal is transmitted from the brain to another part of the body, the myelin allows the message to travel smoothly and efficiently.

In a person with MS, the myelin sheath breaks down and results in scarring on the related part of the brain or spinal cord. Once scarring occurs, transmission of brain signals become defective or absent, resulting in a wide range of possible symptoms, such as abnormal fatigue, problems with muscle coordination, loss of balance, vision difficulties, slurred speech, spasticity, bladder dysfunction, numbness, tremors and emotional imbalance (The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 2005). While some symptoms may come and go over the course of the disease, others may be more lasting. The symptoms and the course of the disease vary greatly from person to person.

WHO? The numbers of people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis have risen over 400,000 in the United States alone and Colorado, where I will be hiking, has one of the most prevalent rates of MS cases in the United States (National Multiple Sclerosis Society: Colorado Chapter, 2005). There is no telling who will develop MS, but there are some existing patterns. According to Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, "About 65% of newly diagnosed patients are between the ages of 20 and 40." Around 2/3 of the people who are diagnosed with MS are female and there seems to be a correspondence with a greater number of affected people living further away from the equator. (Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 2003). Unfortunately, there is not a firm understanding on why certain people develop MS, though different theories exist.

WHAT NOW? Although a cure for multiple sclerosis has yet to be found, early detection is vital in managing the effects of the disease. There are many treatments, including interferon drugs that seem to slow the progression of MS. Lifestyle changes have also been shown to improve the quality of life for those living with Multiple Sclerosis. Although, each person may have specialized needs, stress reduction, good nutrition, and appropriate exercise may be beneficial, (Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, 2003).
 

 MS ORGANIZATIONS

National Multiple Sclerosis Society  (2005). About MS. Retrieved April 2, 2005, from
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/about%20ms.asp

National Multiple Sclerosis Society  Colorado Chapter. (2005). About MS. Retrieved April 2, 2005, from http://www.nationalmssociety.org/COC/top_nav/information.asp?t=1

Multiple Sclerosis Foundation  (2003). MS Info. Retrieved February 13, 2005, from http://www.msfocus.org/msinfo.html

CLICK HERE TO EMAIL SIERRA