What characterizes Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is characterized as a chronic disease that primarily affects the central nervous system. Specifically, it involves the immune system mistakenly attacking the myelin sheath, which is the protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness, and cognitive issues.

Understanding the role of myelin is crucial; it is essential for the proper conduct of electrical impulses along nerve cells. When this sheath is damaged, as in MS, it can impede these signals, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of the disease. This distinction is vital in differentiating MS from other health issues, as the condition is not related to arthritis, infections, or heart disease, which are characterized by their own specific pathologies and symptoms.