“Multiple sclerosis is a disease that causes breakdown of the protective covering of nerves. Multiple sclerosis can cause numbness, weakness, trouble walking, vision changes and other symptoms. It’s also known as MS.

In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath that covers nerve fibers, known as myelin. This interrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Eventually, the disease can cause permanent damage of the nerve fibers.

• Age: MS typically makes its first appearance in people between the ages of 20 and 40. 

• Vitamin D Levels: Low levels of vitamin D and low exposure to sunlight are associated with an increased risk of developing MS. 

• Body Weight: Being overweight is more likely to develop MS and can lead to more severe disease and a faster onset of progression. 

• Smoking: Smoking is linked to more relapses, worse progressive disease, and worse cognitive symptoms in people with MS. 

• Gender: Women are up to three times as likely as men to have relapsing-remitting MS. 

• Family History: Having a parent or sibling with MS increases the risk. 
• Infections: Certain infections, including Epstein-Barr virus, have been linked to MS.“

MAYO CLINIC (Multiple sclerosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic)