Multiple Sclerosis

Serious Illness Definition

Multiple sclerosis is one of the illnesses covered by our Serious Illness Benefit. We define it as a definite diagnosis of multiple sclerosis by a consultant neurologist which has resulted in clinical impairment of motor or sensory function.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system. It causes the body’s immune system to attack the protective covering (called ‘myelin’) which surrounds nerve fibres. When this happens, nerve fibres become less efficient at sending information from the brain to the rest of the body.

The impact of multiple sclerosis can be wide-ranging, affecting any part of the body. Each person with the condition is affected differently. Co-ordination, speech, muscle power and sensation can be affected by multiple sclerosis.