People may go through one of four possible courses. In the relapsing-remitting course, symptoms may fade, but then return off and on for many years. The secondary progressive course may first follow the relapsing-remitting course, but then may become progressively worse. The primary progressive course means that MS gets progressively worse from the start. In the progressive-relapsing course symptoms may come and go, but damage to nerves steadily gets worse.

The exact cause of MS may not be clear, but many may believe that it is an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body's immune system attacks normal tissue in the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms of MS may depend largely on what parts of the nervous system are affected and how severe the damage is. Early symptoms may include weak or stiff muscles and problems with vision and balance, as well as sensory problems.

As the disease progresses, patients may experience tremors, pain, trouble controlling urination, stiffness when moving and problems swallowing and thinking clearly. Multiple sclerosis may lead to depression. People with MS may be sensitive to heat. Exposure to heat (a hot shower, fever, hot weather, etc.) may make symptoms worse until the patient cools down.

The severity of symptoms may vary from patient to patient. Symptoms may suddenly get worse, or may lay dormant for years.

A doctor may use an MRI along with taking a patient history and inquiring about symptoms to diagnose MS. Certain medications may be effective in treating the disease.

Some drugs may slow MS, but may cause strong side effects in patients. Physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy may also be used to overcome certain physical problems associated with MS. Living a healthy lifestyle may also help to control and treat MS.

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