Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease that results in the degeneration of the nerves' outer sheath. Among the symptoms of multiple sclerosis are numbness, weakness, difficulty walking, and changes in eyesight. 

"It is characterised by the immune system inadvertently attacking the protective covering of nerve fibres called myelin," said in a conversation with the OnlyMyHealth team. In certain parts of the central nervous system, this causes inflammation, injury, and the development of scar tissue (sclerosis).

The protective myelin coating that surrounds nerve fibres is attacked by the immune system in multiple sclerosis. The brain and the rest of the body are unable to communicate as a result. The condition may eventually result in irreversible nerve fibre damage.

Common symptoms of MS include:

According to a recent study by UC San Francisco researchers, menopause has a major negative influence on cognitive function, fine motor skills, and walking ability while also hastening the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS).

The researchers discovered that following menopause, there was an increase in the blood biomarker neurofilament light chain (NfL). This supports the MSFC findings and shows increasing nerve cell degeneration, which is a sign of progressive MS.

Using information from two UCSF studies that look into the aetiology and course of MS, EPIC and ORIGINS, the study tracked 184 women before and after menopause. Researchers used the MS Functional Composite (MSFC) to measure walking speed and other tasks during the participants' yearly evaluations, which lasted an average of 13 years.

The MS Functional Composite (MSFC), which measures walking speed in addition to other tasks, was employed in the current investigation. After controlling for age, weight, and tobacco use, they discovered that after menopause, participants needed more time to do a 25-foot walk. More minor deteriorations in cognition and dexterity were also discovered.

MS primarily affects women, and there is evidence that the course of the disease may be influenced by changes in sex-related hormones like oestrogen. Because oestrogen levels decrease during menopause, there is reason to believe that menopause may have an impact on the course of MS disease.

Menopause can exacerbate MS symptoms for some people. For some people, menopausal hot flashes can exacerbate or momentarily exacerbate heat sensitivity problems, which can make symptoms worse. Mood, sleep, exhaustion, cognition, or bladder function difficulties can all become more difficult throughout menopause.