Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the central nervous system,
which includes the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin. This disrupts the communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a wide range of potential symptoms.

Types of Multiple Sclerosis

To determine the specific type of multiple sclerosis (MS) you may have, your physician will conduct a thorough evaluation. There are three main types of MS, and your diagnosis will be based on the unique characteristics of your condition. These types include:

Relapsing-remitting (RRMS)

RRMS is the most common form of multiple sclerosis, marked by periods of symptom flare-ups (relapses) followed by periods of recovery (remissions).

Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS)

PPMS is characterized by a gradual worsening of symptoms from the onset, without clear relapses or remissions.

Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS)

SPMS often develops after RRMS. Throughout this stage, the disease begins to progress more steadily with or without relapses. 

Progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS)

PRMS is a rare form of multiple sclerosis with steadily worsening symptoms from the beginning, along with acute relapses. 

Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) is a first episode of neurological symptoms caused by inflammation and myelin loss in the brain and spinal cord, lasting at least 24 hours. CIS may be a precursor to multiple sclerosis, but not everyone with CIS will develop MS.

Symptoms

Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system, causing a wide range of symptoms that can vary from person to person. These symptoms depend on the location and severity of nerve damage.

Common symptoms of MS include:

Sensory

• Numbness/tingling: 

 Affects face, body, or limbs; feels like "pins and needles."

• Vision problems: 

Blurred/double vision, eye pain, temporary vision loss.

• Pain: 

Nerve pain, muscle spasms, headaches.

• Dizziness/vertigo: 

Feeling unsteady or spinning.

• Lhermitte's sign: 

Electric shock sensation when bending the neck.

Motor

• Muscle weakness: 

Affects any body part; impacts walking and balance.

• Fatigue: 

Overwhelming tiredness.

• Spasticity: 

Muscle stiffness and spasms.

• Tremor: 

Involuntary shaking.

• Speech/swallowing problems: 

Slurred speech, difficulty swallowing.

Cognitive

• Memory problems: 

Difficulty with short-term memory and learning.

• Attention/concentration problems: 

Trouble focusing.

• Slowed thinking: 

Difficulty with complex tasks.

• Executive function:

Problems with planning and organizing.

Other

• Bladder/bowel problems: 

Incontinence, difficulty emptying bladder/bowel.

• Sexual dysfunction: 

Decreased libido, erectile dysfunction.

• Emotional changes: 

Depression, anxiety, mood swings.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) presents unique challenges. Knight Neurology offers comprehensive care, including advanced therapies and lifestyle support, to help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Coupled with a healthy lifestyle, these treatments can help you manage your symptoms:

• Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs)
  
• Relapse management medications (e.g., corticosteroids)
  
• Plasma exchange
  
• Physical therapy

 Call Knight Neurology at (321) 345-6331 now or request an appointment to learn more about how we can help.