What is multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Multiple sclerosis, also known as MS, is a chronic neurological disease that affects the central nervous system and can have a profound impact on the lives of those affected and their families. The symptoms often develop gradually and are easily overlooked at first. Over time, however, MS presents increasingly greater challenges in everyday life.
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Despite all the uncertainties and limitations, a diagnosis of MS no longer means the end of quality of life. With modern therapy, targeted support and a strong network, those affected can learn to make their way with the disease - and continue to lead an active and self-determined life.
What are the symptoms of MS?
Multiple sclerosis has various symptoms that occur in phases. The most common include
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Visual disturbances,
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tingling sensations,
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numbness,
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muscle weakness and
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coordination problems.
However, it can also cause
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fatigue,
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cognitive impairment and
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bladder dysfunction can also occur.
The symptoms vary greatly from person to person and change over time. However, some symptoms are not visible from the outside, but can severely impair the quality of life of those affected.
What causes and risk factors play a role in MS?
The causes of MS are not yet fully understood. However, it is assumed that a combination of various factors, such as genetic predispositions and environmental factors, may be the cause. MS is probably triggered when several influences and factors come together. The immune system plays a central role in MS. This is because it protects the body from pathogens. Some of these defense cells are misdirected in MS and mistakenly attack the body's own substances in the central nervous system, ruining them.
MS in Switzerland - facts and figures
In 2016, the number of people affected by MS in Switzerland was estimated at around 15,000. Current studies assume that there are around 18,000 people living with MS in Switzerland today. At 73%, women are significantly more frequently affected. Possible explanations for the increase are better diagnosis options and increased life expectancy. Risk factors such as obesity, an older age at first pregnancy and a lower number of children per woman could also be linked to the increase in new cases.
Support and contact points for MS in Switzerland
There are several important organizations and initiatives for multiple sclerosis in Switzerland. The most relevant are listed in the table below:
Organization |
Main focus |
Website |
|
Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Society |
Main organization for information, advice and support |
www.multiplesklerose.ch |
|
MS-Infoline |
Free number for all questions |
Tel.: 0844 674 636 |
|
Centers such as USZ University Hospital Zurich or KWS Cantonal Hospital Winterthur |
Specialist care, diagnostics, treatment, therapy |
https://www.usz.ch/krankheit/multiple-sklerose/ |
|
EnableMe, MyHandicap Foundation |
Questions, peer network, support |
www.enableme.ch |
|
Pro Infirmis |
General advice, self-help, political representation of interests |
www.proinfirmis.ch |
|
Regional groups in general |
Exchange, activities |
www.multiplesklerose.ch/de/unsere-angebote/regionalgruppen/ |
