What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease affecting the brain and spinal cord, also called the central nervous system (CNS). For a yet-unknown reason, in MS patients the immune system attacks the CNS and causes damage to myelin, which protects the nerve fibers. This results in disruption of communication signals to and from the brain and causes unpredictable symptoms. Every MS patient’s experience is different.
MS can appear at any age but most commonly between the ages of 20 and 40. It affects women two to three times as often as men. Almost one million people in the United States have MS, making it one of the most common causes of neurological disability among young adults in North America.
Our MS treatment program is led by Neha V. Safi, MD, MS, a neurologist fellowship trained in multiple sclerosis.
What Are the Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis?
Because almost any part of the central nervous system can be affected, the symptoms of MS vary, depending on the location involved. About half of all people with MS first have an isolated neurological problem, and an almost equal number have more than one symptom signaling the condition.
The most common symptoms of MS are:
- Loss of vision (optic neuritis)
- Double vision
- Vertigo
- Weakness in one or more limbs
- Facial weakness
- Facial pain (trigeminal neuralgia)
- Numbness and tingling
- Muscle stiffness (spasticity)
- Gait abnormalities and imbalance
- Cognitive problems
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Bowel and bladder problems
- Sexual dysfunction
- Pain
MS symptoms that worsen or suddenly increase, known as a relapse, can last for days or weeks and then resolve, partially or fully. Over time, symptoms may persist more often or steadily worsen.
How is MS Diagnosed?
Although confirming an MS diagnosis can be straightforward, that is not always the case. Symptoms of MS may also occur in other disorders. Doctors will take a thorough medical history, perform a neurologic examination, and order testing to rule out other disorders. Some of the laboratory, imaging, and electrophysiological studies used to diagnose and appropriately manage MS include:
- Blood tests
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
- MRI of the brain and spinal cord
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
- Visual field testing
- Electrical conduction studies (evoked potentials)
Other studies, such as, neuropsychological testing, bladder ultrasound, and urodynamic studies, may be needed depending on the nature of the problems.
How Multiple Sclerosis is Treated
Although MS cannot currently be cured, it can be managed. With effective medication, rehabilitation, and other therapies, it is possible to:
- Limit and even stop new injuries to the central nervous system
- Treat acute attacks
- Stop, control, and prevent symptoms
- Aid in recovery from attacks
Related Disorders
We also treat related neuroinflammatory conditions, including:
- Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Disease (MOGAD)
- Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMO or NMOSD)