Multiple Sclerosis is Treated at Mercy Medical Center

Multiple sclerosis, also known as MS, is a chronic and sometimes debilitating disease, in which the immune system destroys the myelin, a substance that protects the nerve fibers in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Damage to the myelin causes an interruption in communication with the brain, spinal cord and other areas of your body.  

What causes Multiple Sclerosis?

There is no known cause for MS. It is believed to be an autoimmune disease, a disease that attacks its own tissue. It is also believed that genetics and childhood infections may play a part in the disease.

Multiple Sclerosis symptoms differ and depend on the area of the affected nerve fibers. Some symptoms may include:

• Dizziness
• Doubled or blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs
• Partial or complete loss of sight
• Slurred speech
• Tremors that impact the coordination of walking
• Tingling in parts of the body

Doctors will conduct a medical history, take a physical exam and discuss symptoms to diagnose multiple sclerosis. Since other diseases have similar symptoms, the doctors may order other diagnostic tests including:

• Blood tests
• Spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
• MRI
• Evoked potential test

Since there is no cure for MS, the typical course of treatment includes:

• Treating the MS attacks
• Managing symptoms
• Decreasing the progression of the condition

Other modifications to manage MS include getting plenty of rest, exercising, keeping the body cool, eating healthy and decreasing stress.