Walk MS is a simple, but incredibly

powerful way for you to

share in the hope for the

future.

What is MS? Multiple sclerosis interrupts the flow of information between the brain

and the body and it stops people from moving. Every hour in the United States, someone is newly diagnosed with MS, an unpredictable, often

disabling disease of the central nervous system. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. The progress,

severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot yet be predicted, but advances in research and treatment are moving us closer to a world free of MS. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the

ages of 20 and 50.

Who gets MS? Anyone

may develop MS but

there are some

patterns.

Twice as many women as men have MS. Studies suggest that genetic factors make certain

individuals more susceptible than others, but there is no evidence that MS is directly inherited. It occurs more commonly among people with

northern European ancestry, but people of African, Asian, and Hispanic backgrounds are not immune.

What are the typical symptoms of MS?

Symptoms of MS are unpredictable and vary from person to person,

and from time to time. For example: One person may

experience abnormal fatigue and episodes of numbness and tingling. Another could have loss of balance and muscle coordination making walking difficult. Still another could have

slurred speech, tremors, stiffness, and bladder

problems. Sometimes major

symptoms disappear completely, and the person regains lost

functions. In severe MS, people have symptoms on

a permanent basis including partial or

complete paralysis, and difficulties with vision, cognition, speech, and

elimination.

Is there a cure? While a cure for MS

has not yet been discovered,

advances in research have yielded

treatments. Early and ongoing treatment

with an FDA- approved therapy

could make a difference for you if you have MS. Learn about your options by talking to your

health care professional and contacting the

National MS Society.