How Much Do You Know About Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system, the brain, and spinal cord. Its symptoms can range from mild to severe. Find out more about this illness by taking this quiz, based on information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).

1. About how many people in the U.S. have MS?

A. 100,000B. 150,000C. 300,000D. 900,000

2. MS affects the central nervous system (CNS). Which part of the CNS is usually attacked?

A. Nerve cells (neurons)B. MyelinC. PlaquesD. Vertebrae

3. Which age group is MS most likely to strike?

A. Children under 12B. TeensC. Adults ages 20 to 40D. Adults ages 65 and older

4. Although the exact cause of MS is not yet known, which factor may play a role?

A. EnvironmentB. VirusesC. Family historyD. All of the above

5. How does the disease usually progress?

A. In a series of attacks and remissionsB. In a gradual decline of function with no remissionC. The disease does not get worseD. All of the above

6. A person with MS who wants to have children should be aware that her disease may affect her pregnancy in what way?

A. A miscarriage is more likelyB. Labor and delivery may be more riskyC. The baby may develop birth defectsD. MS symptoms may ease or fade away late in pregnancy but may get worse after childbirth

7. What are some of the symptoms of MS?

A. Blurred or double visionB. Muscle weakness or partial paralysisC. Tiredness (fatigue)D. All of the above

8. If symptoms and a physical exam suggest MS, how does a healthcare provider confirm it?

A. MRIB. Spinal tapC. Visual evoked potential (VEP) testsD. All of the above

9. Which therapy is often recommended for treating slowly progressing MS?

10. Which of these so-called therapies is not recommended for MS?

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How Much Do You Know About Multiple Sclerosis?

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