Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological condition among young adults, affecting approximately 1 in 1,000 people. It is possible for MS to occur at any age, but in most cases symptoms are first seen between the ages of 20 and 40. Women are almost twice as likely to develop MS as men.

MS is a condition of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), which controls the body's actions and activities, such as movement and balance.

Each nerve fiber in the central nervous system is surrounded by a substance called myelin, which helps the messages from the brain travel quickly and smoothly to the rest of the body. In MS, the myelin becomes damaged which causes the transfer of these messages to become disrupted.

There are four main types of multiple sclerosis; benign MS, relapsing remitting MS, secondary progressive MS and primary progressive MS.

The symptoms of the condition are numerous and unpredictable, and affect each person differently. Some of the most common conditions include problems with mobility and balance, pain, and muscle spasms and tightness.

The exact cause of MS is not fully understood, although there is some evidence to suggest that it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

There is no cure for MS, but research is continuing into the condition and its causes. However, there are many treatments for MS, which aim to improve the symptoms and make them easier to live with, such as medications and physiotherapy.

MS is a life-long condition, but it is not terminal, and people with MS can expect to live as long as anyone else.