Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common cause of
neurological disability in young adults in the UK. It is
variable in presentation and progression. Although there
is no cure, there are many symptomatic treatments
available. Nurses have a vital role in the ongoing assessment
and management of people with MS.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common disabling
neurological condition in young adults in the UK (Perkin
and Wolinsky, 2000). It occurs all around the world, but is
more common in countries with temperate climates. The
UK, Scandinavia and Iceland have the highest rates of MS
in the world.
MS is usually diagnosed in adults aged 20–40 years. It
is more common in women than in men, at a ratio of 3:2
(MS Society, 2003).
The cause of MS is unknown. Current opinion is that it
is an autoimmune disease that occurs in a genetically
susceptible individual. Scientists remain unsure of what
causes the disease process to start. Many different theories
have been proposed and investigated, without success.
These include viruses, trauma and environmental
factors (Ebers and Sadovnick, 1998a).