MS is not present at birth. It develops as the immune system matures. Less than 1% of people who have MS are diagnosed before age 10. There are about 5,000 children living with pediatric MS in the United States. About 10,000 children worldwide have MS, according to the National MS Society.
The most common type of MS in children is called relapsing-remitting. That means there are times when the condition is quiet, with few or no symptoms. This remission can last months or years. At other times, the MS symptoms flare up. A relapse could last for days or weeks.
Managing flare-ups is important to maintain the best possible health, function and movement. Typically, children who have MS have a good recovery. Sometimes flare-ups may cause lasting damage to nerves. A child may not get back certain movements or functions.
What Causes MS?
Doctors and scientists don’t know the exact causes of MS. They believe many factors contribute to the disease. What triggers the immune system to develop MS is unique for every person. If close family members have MS or other autoimmune diseases, the risk of getting MS is higher.