Multiple sclerosis is a weakening disease of the brain and spinal cord wherein the myelin sheath that covers the nerve fibres is slowly destroyed, leading to loss of communication between nerves and the body and irreversible damage to the nerves.

The signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis include numbness on one side of the body, lack of coordination, tremors, blurred vision, partial or complete loss of vision, slurred speech and problems with gait and movements.

When the immune system attacks the myelin sheath of the nerve cells, it leads to multiple sclerosis.

Although there are no specific tests, multiple sclerosis is diagnosed by blood tests, MRI of the brain, tests for checking nerve potential in response to stimuli.

Multiple sclerosis cannot be cured permanently. However, corticosteroids and plasmapheresis can help in slowing the progress of the disease and management of the symptoms.