How does MS affect the brainstem or how does the brainstem affect mS?

Answer 1

Multiple Sclerosis, an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks its own central nervous system, is marked by destruction to the brain and spinal cord. The brain stem is a common place for MS lesions, scar tissue reminent of these autoimmune responses. The brain stem is the lower region of the brain that contains most cranial nerves, connects the brain with the spinal cord, and is responsible for communications between the body and the brain. Destruction caused from Multiple Sclerosis lesions in the brain stem can lead to vertigo (dizziness, loss of balance), urinary difficulties, auditory problems, diplopia (double vision) or other visual changes, facial paralysis, change or loss of taste, difficulty swallowing or salivating, and loss or change of olfaction (sense of smell).