Multiple sclerosis

In our country, about 1 in 1,000 people develop multiple sclerosis. But what exactly is going on with this nervous system disorder?

The disease is caused by damage to the conductive covering of the nerve pathways. The cause is partly genetic, but environmental factors also play a role. For example, the disease is more common in Europe than in Africa, but if you move to Africa before puberty, the chance of getting the disease decreases.

The first symptoms occur in young adulthood and the disease is more common in women than in men. Almost all nerves can be affected. This not only causes fatigue, stiff muscles, speech disorders and urine loss, but it can also cause problems with memory, vision and many other problems. The complaints and evolution differ from person to person.

The disease cannot be cured, but its evolution and symptoms can be treated with medications and physiotherapy.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2026