Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Disorders

A demyelinating disease or disorder is any condition that causes damage to the protective covering, much like insulation, surrounding the nerve fibers in your brain that connect with the eyes and spinal cord. Damage to the myelin sheath causes neurological issues because the nerve impulses slow down or come to a stop. Damage to myelin causes scar tissue to form, making it difficult for nerves to communicate with the brain.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is also the most common of the inflammatory demyelinating disorders. In MS, the immune system cells that normally protect us from viruses, bacteria and unhealthy cells mistakenly attack myelin in the central nervous system (brain, optic nerves and spinal cord). MS and other demyelinating diseases affect people differently. Some have mild symptoms with little to no disability, whereas others will have a steadily worsening disease that leads to increased disability over time. To develop a deeper understanding of the different types, causes, treatment and care for individuals with a demyelinating disorder or MS diagnosis, please explore the menu to the left.