1. Multiple Sclerosis Melissa, Shelcie, Natalie

2. Description 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. It’s chronic condition since there is not yet a cure for the disease.

3. Causes The ultimate cause of MS is damage to myelin, nerve fibers, and neurons in the brain and spinal cord, which together make up the central nervous system But how that happens, and why, are questions that are still unknown.

4. Symptoms The first symptoms of MS often include: vision problems weak, stiff muscles, often with painful muscle spasms tingling or numbness in the arms, legs, trunk of the body, or face clumsiness, particularly difficulty staying balanced when walking bladder control problems, either inability to control the bladder or urgency dizziness that doesn't go away MS may also cause later symptoms such as: mental or physical fatigue which accompanies the above symptoms during an attack mood changes changes in the ability to concentrate or to multitask effectively difficulty making decisions, planning, or prioritizing at work or in private life

5. Preventions/Cures There is no way to prevent multiple sclerosis (MS) or its attacks.

6. Treatment There are medications that are available that can slow down the course of the disease. (ex: Aubagio, Avonex, Copaxone, Rebif) There are also therapies available that can treat specific symptoms of MS, like the pain, bladder problems, fatigue, or weakness. (ex: Physical Therapy) Everyone with MS should see a physician who is knowledgeable about MS and who can recommend a comprehensive approach to managing MS, which includes medications, mental health support, and lifestyle modifications.

7. Facts Most of the 2 million people in the world with MS have a normal life expectancy. Ozzy Osbourne’s son, Jack, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at age 26 after going temporarily blind in one eye.

8. Works Cited http://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple- sclerosis/basics/definition/con-20026689 http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple- sclerosis/basics/definition/con-20026689 http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/multiple_sclerosis/d etail_multiple_sclerosis.htm http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/multiple_sclerosis/d etail_multiple_sclerosis.htm http://www.mymsaa.org/about-ms/treatments/