Cause

• According to the Mayo Clinic, the exact cause for MS is unknown. Genetics and infections are believed to play a role. Other factors that contribute to the development of MS might include thyroid disease, inflammatory bowel disease and type 1 diabetes.
  
  

Treatment

• There are many treatment options available for MS, though there is no cure. These treatment options include numerous types of medication, therapy and surgical procedures.
  
  

Function

• The medications prescribed for MS work by relieving the symptoms of MS, such as pain, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and tremors, and by helping slow down the disease. Therapy includes strengthening and stretching the muscles to help in the performance of daily activities. Plasma exchange, a procedure that separates the plasma from the blood, might help fight the symptoms of MS relapses.
  
  

Side Effects

• Many of these medications can cause negative effects such as liver damage, shortness of breath, flushing or leukoencephalopathy, a brain infection that can be fatal.
  
  

Complications

• MS can cause further complications such as bowel, urinary and sexual dysfunction, epilepsy, depression, and paralysis.