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Selma Blair is best known for her roles in movies like ‘Cruel Intentions’, but in recent years, she has also become a voice for people living with chronic illness. In 2018, Blair was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease that affects the central nervous system. At first, this might sound like bad news. But for Blair, getting the diagnosis was actually a relief. She recently shared that she felt “thrilled” to finally have a name for what was happening to her body. Her story helps us understand why a diagnosis can sometimes be a turning point for hope and healing.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?![3 - 2025-05-02T152812.714]( "multiple sclerosis selma blair")
Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a long-term illness that affects the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering around nerves in these areas. Over time, this can cause mild to more serious disability for some people.
Globally, more than a million people are living with MS, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The disease most often starts in people in their 30s or 40s and is less common in older adults, says Dr Sinjan Ghosh, Consultant, Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata. He further explains that while MS used to be seen mainly in Western countries, cases are now increasing in places like India. One factor that may play a role is low levels of vitamin D.
Some common symptoms of MS include:
- Weakness, often on one side of the body, especially in the arms or legs
- Vision problems, sometimes caused by inflammation of the optic nerve (optic neuritis)
- Trouble walking or keeping balance
- Trouble thinking clearly or remembering things
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Feeling depressed
- Problems with sexual function or controlling urination
- Feeling very tired
Why Was Selma Blair ‘Thrilled’ to Get Her Diagnosis?![1 - 2025-05-02T152805.913]( "selma blair multiple sclerosis")
Blair has been open about her journey with MS. Before her diagnosis, she struggled with unexplained symptoms. She felt different from others and often wondered if her problems were “all in her head.” She asked, “How do people go about their daily lives feeling OK? How does that mom carry her baby and stay awake?”
When she finally got her diagnosis, she felt seen and understood. She said, “I was thrilled. It’s so funny. I felt like people thought it had to be some tragic thing, but I was like, ‘No, you don’t understand.’ I was feeling tragic inside before, and thinking this is just all psychosomatic, and how can I change myself?” Getting the diagnosis gave her a sense of validation. It meant her symptoms were real, not imagined. It also meant she could start treatment and take steps to manage her health.
How Is MS Diagnosed?![2 - 2025-05-02T152814.875]( "multiple sclerosis diagnosis")
Diagnosing MS is not always easy. Doctors look at a person’s symptoms, medical history and may order tests like an MRI. Dr Ghosh notes that MS can sometimes cause symptoms that look like a stroke. Doctors usually diagnose MS using a person’s medical history, brain and spinal cord MRI scans, and tests on the optic nerve. These tests can show damage to the brain or spinal cord. There is no single test for MS, so doctors often need to rule out other possible causes for the symptoms.
What Can We Learn From Selma Blair’s Experience?
Selma Blair’s openness about her MS journey has inspired many. Her story reminds us that getting a diagnosis-even for a serious illness-can be a positive step. It means you are not alone, and there are ways to move forward. Her courage and honesty help us all see the importance of listening to our bodies and seeking help when something feels wrong.