Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, as yet incurable disease that manifests itself differently in each individual affected.
The central nervous system, or CNS for short, comprises the area of the brain as well as the spinal cord and is responsible for cognitive functions such as thinking and speaking, but also for the control of physical activities and the processing and transmission of signals and information.
Nerve fibres are responsible for the correct and fast transmission and, similar to an electric cable, they are surrounded by a protective or insulating layer – the so-called myelin.
In MS, cells of the body’s immune system attack this myelin. Parts of the sheathing of the nerve fibres are repaired, resulting in scars or hardening that no longer allow proper signal transmission. This manifests itself in symptoms ranging from tingling to movement disorders – depending on which part of the CNS is affected.
Long-term therapies are used to treat MS, which differ in terms of administration, mode of action and, of course, side effects. What they all have in common, however, is that long-term therapies can only develop their optimal effect if they are taken on a permanent and regular basis.
The wide range of therapies offers the opportunity to tailor the treatment perfectly to your needs. But which therapy is best for you? Which long-term therapy best fits your life situation? How can you best integrate the therapy into your life or daily routine so that you can comply with it regularly?
You will make this important decision about therapy together with your doctor, because therapy success is teamwork.