Multiple Sclerosis

 Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). The central nervous system (CNS) contains billions of nerves, each surrounded by a fatty casing called the myelin sheath. Multiple sclerosis results from damage to the myelin sheath (demyelination).

The cause of this damage is a problem with your immune system. When you have MS, your immune system attacks the cells in the myelin sheath in the same way it would a bacteria or virus. As the myelin sheath breaks down, the nerve fibers are damaged. As a result, your nerves and brain can’t communicate properly.

MS symptoms differ from one person to the next but can include:

• Weak arms and legs
• Chronic fatigue
• Pain
• Loss of balance
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Blurred vision
• Muscle stiffness

MS can also affect the way you think. You might have problems with your memory or find it difficult to focus when you have MS.

Your Sunset Neurological & Psychiatry Group provider does blood tests to diagnose MS. They could also do a lumbar puncture (put a needle in your spinal canal) to get a sample of spinal fluid for testing. Other procedures include a brain and spine MRI and evoked potentials — electrical tests that detect nerve damage if there’s nothing obvious on your MRI

MS has no cure, but Sunset Neurological & Psychiatry Group offers effective, personalized care to relieve your symptoms. Your treatment can include:

Steroids can help reduce the nerve inflammation of MS. Pain relief medication, muscle relaxants, and low-dose antidepressants are all useful in reducing pain. Other medicines help increase your walking speed and lessen fatigue. Disease-modifying therapies reduce demyelination and are particularly useful in patients suffering relapses.

Physical therapy can help you maintain muscle strength and flexibility. Your therapist can also show you how to use mobility aids like walking sticks, crutches, and walkers.

Plasmapheresis is a procedure that replaces your blood plasma (the liquid part of your blood). A machine takes your blood from a vein, separates the plasma, and cleans it before returning it to your body.

Your Sunset Neurological & Psychiatry Group doctor can also help you make life changes that support your body’s ability to manage MS. Good nutrition, regular exercise, and addressing bad habits like smoking can all make a difference to your condition.

If you have MS or are worried you’re developing symptoms, call Sunset Neurological & Psychiatry Group today.