Some research suggests that people with multiple sclerosis are at a higher risk of atherosclerosis. An increased risk hasn’t been established, and we don’t know how MS might increase the risk. Having atherosclerosis doesn’t lead to multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective covering for nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to symptoms that affect movement, thinking, the senses, and more.
Some evidence suggests that MS increases the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition in which a sticky substance called plaque builds up inside arteries. Diseases linked with atherosclerosis, such as coronary artery disease, are the
“Sclerosis” means “scar tissue.” The scar tissue in MS is located on the nerves of the central nervous system, while the scar tissue of atherosclerosis is located inside the blood vessels.
Here, we explore the link between MS and atherosclerosis.
There’s some evidence that having MS increases the risk of atherosclerosis. However, the exact reason behind this isn’t known, and findings have been inconsistent.
In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin in the brain and spinal cord, causing inflammation and damage in these areas. In atherosclerosis, inflammation contributes to the buildup of plaque in arteries.
Several inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, are
Meanwhile, MS causes targeted inflammation that’s directed toward the myelin of the central nervous system. So, this type of inflammation would not be expected to cause atherosclerosis in the same way.
The relationship between MS and atherosclerosis differs in many ways from the relationship between atherosclerosis and other inflammatory disorders.
Research into MS and atherosclerosis risk
A 2020 study compared blood vessel disease in people with and without MS. It assessed factors like cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cerebrovascular diseases like stroke and carotid artery disease.
The study found that, compared to people without MS, those with MS had a 1.5-fold higher risk of CVD and cerebrovascular disease, as well as a 3.5-fold increased risk of life threatening illness of any cause. The researchers noted that this increased risk couldn’t be explained solely by traditional risk factors for these conditions, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that people with MS had poorer blood vessel function, specifically highlighting increased artery stiffness. Artery stiffening is a feature
The researchers did not find measurable health consequences associated with the increase in arterial stiffening, despite the fact that arterial stiffness is associated with atherosclerosis and heart disease. They did not have an explanation for why there were no health consequences noted.
A 2021 study found greater thickening of the carotid arteries in people with MS compared to those without MS. Having a higher carotid artery thickness can be a sign of CVD, including subclinical atherosclerosis. Subclinical atherosclerosis is when you have atherosclerosis
It’s well known that atherosclerosis is a slowly progressive disease that does not cause noticeable symptoms until late stages, and the late stage effects are heart attack and stroke.
Findings on MS and atherosclerosis have been inconsistent, however. For example, a 2024 study also evaluated carotid artery thickness in people with and without MS and found no difference. The researchers in this study concluded that MS wasn’t associated with subclinical atherosclerosis.
What’s known
Medical professionals largely surmise that having MS might lead to an increase in atherosclerosis for some people due to:
- A lack of physical activity: Many with MS have significant limitations in mobility, all of which can lead to atherosclerosis:
- hypertension
- high triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol
- low HDL (good) cholesterol
- obesity
- type 2 diabetes
- Certain MS medications: These may increase the risk of conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity) that contribute to atherosclerosis. You should discuss potential side effects with your doctor.
- Stress: A lack of mobility, disability, financial difficulties, and other stressors can contribute to atherosclerosis.
- Possibly genetics: Some preliminary research is beginning to look at possible genetic factors that could lead to both MS and atherosclerosis. Initial results have been inconsistent.
At this time, there’s no scientific evidence that having atherosclerosis can lead to MS.
Atherosclerosis and MS each have different symptoms.
Atherosclerosis symptoms
Atherosclerosis often doesn’t cause symptoms in its earlier stages. Over time, the arteries become narrowed as more plaque accumulates. This can restrict blood flow to a variety of organs and tissues, leading to various complications like:
- coronary artery disease, which causes heart attack, a type of chest pain called angina, shortness of breath during physical activity, and heart palpitations
- peripheral artery disease, which often leads to pain and cramping in your legs when you move
- kidney disease, which can include symptoms like fatigue, changes in urination frequency, itching, and swelling in your feet and hands
- erectile dysfunction
- mesenteric artery ischemia, which causes symptoms like intense abdominal pain after eating, diarrhea, and unintended weight loss
- transient ischemic attack (TIA) and stroke
Multiple sclerosis symptoms
The symptoms of MS can vary from person to person. Depending on the type of MS you have, symptoms may also come and go or gradually get worse over time.
The potential symptoms of MS include:
- sensations of numbness and tingling, typically in the torso, face, or limbs
- muscle weakness, stiffness, or spasms
- vision problems
- dizziness or vertigo
- trouble with moving and staying balanced
- issues with urinary and bowel control
- sexual dysfunction
- fatigue
- difficulty with thinking, concentration, or memory
- depression or anxiety
Both atherosclerosis and MS have different causes and risk factors.
Atherosclerosis causes
Atherosclerosis is believed to start when the inner lining of an artery is damaged. This leads to inflammation and the gradual buildup of plaque at the damaged area.
Several risk factors can increase the risk of atherosclerosis and its progression. These include:
- high cholesterol or triglycerides
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- overweight and obesity
- inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis
- a diet high in cholesterol and saturated fat
- low levels of physical activity
- smoking
- advanced age
- a family history of atherosclerosis-related diseases
Multiple sclerosis causes
Researchers still don’t know the exact cause of MS. However, it’s believed that a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors contribute to its onset.
The risk factors for MS are:
- a family history of MS
- living in a part of the world further from the equator
- low levels of vitamin D
- previous infections, such as those with Epstein-Barr virus
- smoking
- obesity
MS typically develops
People with MS experience different effects of the disease. However, if you notice symptoms like numbness and tingling, muscle weakness, or vision problems, make an appointment with a healthcare professional.
There’s no cure for MS. However, early treatment can help to alleviate symptoms and prevent MS from progressing.
While atherosclerosis often doesn’t have symptoms, see a healthcare professional if you have risk factors that are associated with the condition.
Some research suggests that having MS may increase the risk of atherosclerosis. However, the exact reason for this is unknown, and current research findings are inconsistent. There’s no evidence that atherosclerosis can cause MS.
Atherosclerosis and MS both have different causes and risk factors. Some risk factors, such as smoking and obesity, overlap between the two conditions.
If you develop symptoms that are consistent with MS or with problems due to atherosclerosis, make an appointment with a doctor.