What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack myelin. Myelin is the protective layer that covers the nerve cells. This can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing symptoms such as muscle weakness, tingling, vision problems, and difficulty balancing and walking. There are several types of MS. The main types include relapsing-remitting MS, primary-progressive MS, secondary-progressive MS, and progressive-relapsing MS. Learn more about the types of MS.

Is multiple sclerosis hereditary?

A person does not directly inherit MS from a family member. However, more than 200 genes may contribute to its development. More research is necessary to better understand the role genes play in MS. Learn more about MS and genetics.

What causes multiple sclerosis?

The exact cause of MS is unclear. However, various factors can increase the likelihood of the condition developing. These include certain genes, exposure to the Epstein-Barr virus, and low levels of vitamin D. MS is more common in people assigned female at birth. It typically develops between the ages of 15 and 50 years.

Can multiple sclerosis be fatal?

MS is rarely fatal. In most cases, it does not affect a person's life expectancy. A 2020 study found that MS-related deaths were mostly due to infection, advanced immobility, and chronic respiratory disease. However, the study also noted that receiving suitable treatment to reduce the likelihood of these and other complications can improve outcomes for people with MS. A person can discuss their treatment plan with their doctor to help manage MS. Newer therapies for MS may help improve outcomes. Learn more about MS and life expectancy.

Discover Top Multiple Sclerosis Ms Doctors in Oakland, CA

Insurance

Gender

Distance

Specialty

Age

Availability

Language

Patient Satisfaction

Affiliated Facility

Dr. Enrico Lallana, MD

Dr. Afshin Mohammadi, MD

Dr. Manjari Patel, MD

Dr. Michael Kiekhaefer, MD

Dr. John Geraghty, MD

Dr. Sun Hansrote, MD

Dr. Don Yoshimura, MD

Dr. Mujahid Mahmood, MD

Dr. Lynda Lam, MD

Dr. Jina Janavs, MD

Dr. Craig Hou, MD

Dr. Feng Hua, MD

Dr. Jerry Schlegel, MD

Dr. Suketu Khandhar, MD

Dr. Carlos Cromeyer, MD

Dr. Lisa Griffin, MD

Dr. Kaho Wong, MD

Dr. Vivek Pai, MD

Dr. Eric Van Ostrand, MD

Dr. Jet Ho, MD

Dr. Sara Doster, MD

Dr. Brian Lee, MD

Dr. Aline Jelalian, MD

Dr. David O'Dell, MD

Dr. Blondell Chism, MD

Dr. Heidi Shale, MD

Dr. Kevin O'Dell, MD

Dr. Rajan Bhandari, MD

Dr. Michael Rosenfield, DO

Dr. Randall Starkey, MD

Dr. Bradley Wrubel, MD

Dr. Barry Wong, MPH

Dr. Ok-Kyung Kim, MD

Dr. Atefeh Hosseini, MD

Dr. Jenny Siv, MD

Dr. Garrick Amgott-Kwan, MD

Dr. Bret Andrews, DO

Dr. Siresha Chaluvadi, MD

Dr. Carson Lawall, MD

Dr. Bowen Wong, MD

Dr. Amit Malhotra, MD

Dr. Jessica Fan, MD

Dr. Lynn Zhang, MD

Dr. Trent Hodgson, MD

Dr. Bindu Padmanabha, MD

Dr. Patricia Maska, MD

Dr. Robyn Young, MD

Dr. Barbara McQuinn, MD

Dr. Arti Muralidhara, MD

Dr. Nisha Bhatia, MD

Dr. Brigitte Hurtubise, MD

Dr. Nathan Gaines, MD

Dr. Lauren Oommen, MD

Dr. Barbara Swartz, MD

Dr. Javier Rivera, MD

Dr. Akash Virupakshaiah, MD

Dr. Eric Rider, MD

Dr. Kathie Lin, MD

Dr. Calvin Santiago, MD

Dr. Scheherazade Le, MD

Dr. Olga Goldberg, MD

Dr. Joanna Cooper, MD

Multiple Sclerosis: Frequently Asked Questions

Is multiple sclerosis hereditary? Chevron Icon

What causes multiple sclerosis? Chevron Icon

Can multiple sclerosis be fatal? Chevron Icon

Is multiple sclerosis hereditary?

What causes multiple sclerosis?

Can multiple sclerosis be fatal?