Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition that affects nearly 1 million Americans. If you or someone you love recently received an MS diagnosis, the first questions you might ask are “why?” and “how?”
At Integrated Neurology Services, we offer the supportive resources you need to understand your diagnosis and cope with multiple sclerosis challenges. Our board-certified neurologists use the latest treatments to keep MS symptoms under control so you can live an active life. We also provide resources to protect against additional health complications.
Here, we describe the risk factors that contribute to MS and our approach to treatment.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system; it’s believed to be an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective tissue (myelin) that covers nerve fibers. This disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body and can ultimately cause permanent nerve damage.
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis differ from person to person and relate to the nerve damage that an immune system attack causes.
Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Integrated Neurology Services if you experience sudden or new symptoms like:
As MS progresses, you might experience complications like muscle stiffness, limb paralysis, mood swings, and sexual dysfunction.
The root cause of MS isn’t clear, but your genetic background can be a contributing factor. If you have a parent or sibling with MS, you’re more likely to develop the condition.
You might also be at increased risk for MS because of your:
Your weight, diet, gut microbiome health, and vitamin deficiencies may also play a role in developing multiple sclerosis.
There’s no single test that confirms multiple sclerosis. Our team uses information collected from a medical history review, physical exam, and imaging tests to diagnose MS and identify the appropriate treatment.
The goals of treating multiple sclerosis are to reduce the severity of existing symptoms and to slow the progression of the disease.
The Integrated Neurology Services team provides corticosteroids to ease pain and other symptoms that stem from nerve inflammation. You might also benefit from muscle relaxers to address frequent or painful muscle spasms or stiffness.
We also may prescribe disease-modifying drugs to prevent MS system relapses. These medicines work by disrupting the immune system’s attack on the myelin sheath that covers the nerves.
In addition to medications, our team offers referrals to physical therapy to keep your muscles strong and flexible. Daily exercises at home can also protect your long-term mobility so you can stay active. If you need help coping with the impact of MS on your mental health, we can refer you to a therapist.
Call Integrated Neurology Services today to schedule a multiple sclerosis evaluation or request a consultation online. We have locations in Lorton, Alexandria, and Falls Church, Virginia.
