An overview of multiple sclerosis: diagnosis, causes and symptom management.

Why you should read this article: • To ensure that you have an up-to-date understanding of the symptoms, causes and management of multiple sclerosis (MS) • To familiarise yourself with the different types of MS and how these can affect patients • To update your knowledge of the benefits and challenges of using disease-modifying therapies in people with MS. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It is a hugely variable and complex disease, with life-changing and potentially life-limiting effects. Care for people living with MS has evolved significantly over the past 30 years, with developments in the availability and type of treatments. Knowledge of the causes and pathology of MS has also improved. This article provides an overview of MS, with the aim of ensuring nurses have an up-to-date understanding of the condition based on the latest evidence regarding its causes, treatments and effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]