Is MS (Multiple sclerosis) genetic?

[KatScratch]

My mom was diagnosed with MS yesterday =( She has 8 lesions in her brain so far and she is blind in one eye. Is this something tha is passed down to children and grandchildren?Ciao:She does have optic neuritis. She hasn't been able to see out of that eye for 12 years. They didn't tell her until yesterday that 90% of people that have it, are diagnosed with MS later >=( That is some valuable information that could have helped her years ago. Grrr

[rjohnson442000]

Both. Sometimes it'll skip a generation but usually it doesn't.

[bdas303]

This is actually a weird one because my mom, aunt, and grandmother have it but no one else.. Its not supposed to be genetic but it sure does seem that way huh? Im really sorry about your mom.. Have you made any life changes from what I understand climate means alot to maintaining the disease.. half my family mover to arizona and northern cali to cope with it

[0mni1r0n]

it is theorized to be a combination of environmental and genetic factors.

en.wikipedia.org (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multiple_sclerosis)

[Ciao Amore]

I'm sorry about that. I was diagnosed with MS a few years ago. I also have brain lesions and lesions on my spine. Is she blind or does she have optic neuritis (swelling of the optic nerve)? I've had optic neuritis and I was given steroids to shrink the swelling. I've gone to several neurologists and none of them would ever agree that it is hereditary. However, 2 of my cousins have it too, but to a very bad degree. I also think closed head injuries trigger the disease.I'm in what doctors call remitting/relapsing and haven't had any symptoms in ages. I feel very fortunate. Good luck to your Mom.