In Australia, multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common chronic neurological disease affecting young adults. Often called an ‘invisible disease’, its symptoms can be hard to see and difficult to diagnose.
What is MS?
MS is a lifelong neurological condition that affects the central nervous system, made up of the brain and spinal cord. According to MS Australia, when a person has MS, their own immune system mistakenly attacks the protective coating around the nerves, called myelin. When myelin is damaged during an attack (also known as a relapse), nerves can become exposed and scarred.
These scars, or lesions, interrupt the brain’s ability to send electrical messages smoothly to parts of the body, leading to symptoms such as difficulty with movement, sensation, and thinking. The name multiple sclerosis literally means ‘many scars.’
Some people with MS experience relapses followed by periods of recovery, while others notice a gradual worsening of symptoms over time. Eventually, MS can cause permanent nerve damage and a decline in physical or cognitive function.
While there’s currently no cure, MS is not a terminal illness. Many people living with MS are able to lead full, active lives with the right support and treatment.
What are the common symptoms of MS?
Symptoms can vary widely between people and may come and go unexpectedly. According to MS Plus, some common symptoms include:
- Balance problems, which can increase the risk of falls
- Sensory changes, like tingling, numbness, or burning
- Vision issues, such as double or blurred vision, or partial loss of vision
- Fatigue, both physical and mental
- Muscle weakness
- Thinking and memory problems, often referred to as ‘brain fog’
- Bladder or bowel issues
- Pain and headaches, including migraines
- Depression and anxiety.
How is MS diagnosed?
According to MS Australia, the condition is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, and it’s 3 times more common in women than in men. In Australia, more than 33,000 people are living with MS.
Because MS presents differently in each person and has no single test, a diagnosis can feel frustrating and take some time. For many, it starts with a visit to a GP or optometrist to discuss early symptoms, such as fatigue, numbness, or problems with balance or vision. If MS is suspected, they are likely to be referred to a neurologist.
Neurologists and clinicians use a set of guidelines called the McDonald criteria to determine whether or not someone is likely to have MS. To meet these criteria, a person must have had at least two clinical attacks and show evidence of lesions in at least two areas of the central nervous system. These lesions are usually found via MRI scans.
Other tests may include a lumbar puncture or blood tests to rule out other conditions.
What are the different types of MS?
There are three main types of MS. Understanding which type someone has can help to guide treatment, and gives loved ones and carers a clearer picture of what to expect.
Relapsing Remitting MS (RRMS)
This is the most common form of MS, with 85% of people diagnosed with MS initially having RRMS. It is characterised by sudden episodes of new or worsening symptoms (relapses), followed by periods of recovery (remission). Relapses can last for days, weeks, or months, and remission can be full or partial.
Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS)
SPMS can develop after many years or even decades of RRMS. Over time, people with SPMS experience more relapses, fewer remissions and a steady progression of symptoms, also known as accumulation of disability.
With newer disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) available, there is now a much lower risk of people developing SPMS.
Primary Progressive MS (PPMS)
In PPMS, symptoms gradually worsen from the start, without clear relapses or remission. According to MS Australia, there may be periods of ‘plateau’ where symptoms stabilise. People with PPMS tend to have more lesions in the spinal cord and fewer in the brain, making it more difficult to diagnose and treat.
Only around 10–15% of people with MS are diagnosed with PPMS.
MS Australia has created helpful charts and videos to explain the three types of MS in more detail.
How can Mable support people with MS?
Through Mable, people living with MS – whether children, young adults, or older adults – can connect with independent support workers to help manage symptoms and live life on their terms.
Support may include:
- Allied health services such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Capacity building support
- Personal care and assistance with daily activities
- Support during periods of relapse
- Respite for carers and family members
- Employment support and transport assistance.
Every person’s experience of MS is different. Mable helps connect people to support that meets them where they’re at.
FAQs
Is there a cure for MS?
No, but a large amount of research is being done in Australia and globally to move closer to a cure. Learn more about the research being funded by MS Australia.
Is MS a genetic condition?
MS is not considered a genetic or hereditary condition. Most people with MS have no family history of the disease, and it isn't something that's automatically passed down to children. It's believed that hundreds of genetic variations may play a role in MS.
Does the NDIS offer funding for people with MS?
Yes, MS is a recognised disability under the NDIS. To be eligible for NDIS funding under current eligibility criteria, a person must:
- Be aged between 7 and 65
- Live in Australia and be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or a Protected Special Category visa holder
- Have a disability caused by a permanent impairment that substantially reduces your functional capacity, which may include MS.
The information provided in this article is general information only and based on current information at the date of publication. In addition to considering the information shared in this article, Mable encourages you to conduct your own research and seek independent advice relative to your circumstances. If you wish to use your NDIS funding on any of the services outlined above, Mable recommends that you check your NDIS Support Plan or speak with your Plan Manager to ensure that the appropriate services are coverable.