What Is MS?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body.

WILLIAM
diagnosed in 2002

Knowledge Is Power

An introduction and guide to living with MS for people recently diagnosed with MS or who have a loved one who was recently diagnosed.

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Definition of MS

Find out how the immune system’s abnormal response damages the central nervous system, causing variable and unpredictable symptoms.
Definition of MS Definition of MS

Definition of MS
What Causes MS?

Learn how the immune system may interact with genetic, environmental and infectious factors to cause MS.
Learn about Causes of MS Learn about Causes of MS

What Causes MS?
Who Gets MS?

Learn the facts and figures — how many people have MS, and their location, age at diagnosis, gender, and ethnic background.
Discover Who Gets MS Discover Who Gets MS

Who Gets MS?
Multiple Sclerosis FAQs

Get started with the basics with frequently asked questions about MS.
Read FAQs Read FAQs

Multiple Sclerosis FAQs
Types of MS

Explore the four disease courses to understand the similarities and differences between them.
Explore Types of MS Explore Types of MS

Types of MS
Related Conditions

Read about the other immune-mediated, demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system for which the Society offers information, resources and services.
Learn More Learn More

Related Conditions

Discover More

Here are a few related topics that may interest you

Every Connection Counts

From fundraising events to influencing policy to giving financially, everyone can make a difference.

Walk MS

Walk MS connects people living with MS and those who care about them. When you participate in this community event, the funds you raise give hope to everyone impacted by MS.

Become a Research Champion

The National MS Society is Here to Help

Need More Information?

We Are Here

Our MS Navigators help identify solutions and provide access to the resources you are looking for. Call 1-800-344-4867 or contact us online.

Newly Diagnosed

If you or someone close to you has recently been diagnosed, access our MS information and resources.

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