Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic neurological disease of the brain and spinal cord, is the most common neurologic disease occurring in young people. In fact, this disease impacts approximately a quarter of a million Americans.

The cause of MS is unknown. However, experts do know that something triggers the immune system to attack the brain and spinal cord. The immune system damages myelin, or the insulating layer around nerves, which disrupts signals to and from the brain. Because of this, people who have MS can be severely impacted in their daily lives.

Symptoms of MS can either be acute or chronic and can vary from person to person. It is important to be aware of the varying symptoms of MS. Symptoms of MS may include:

There is no known cure of MS. Therefore, symptom management is an essential component to leading a healthy life with this disease. Your doctor may choose to treat your MS with steroid treatments, blood transfusions or physical therapy depending on the severity of your symptoms.

However, on top of treatments from your doctor, there are many things you can do to help too. Here are some lifestyle changes you can make to help manage MS symptoms from home:

Most importantly, if you are struggling with your diagnosis or symptoms, it is important to reach out to your doctor for additional resources on treating MS.