Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis Treatment in South Carolina
Neurology Specialists in Greenville, SC
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, known as myelin, causing communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.
This damage can result in a wide range of symptoms that vary greatly from person to person and can range from mild to severe. These symptoms can include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle spasms, weakness, and problems with coordination and balance.
While the exact cause of MS is unknown, it’s thought to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. As of now, there’s no cure for MS, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow the disease’s progression.
Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
Multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms can be quite varied and may change or fluctuate over time. Not everyone will experience all these symptoms, and their severity can range from mild to severe. Some common MS symptoms include:
- Fatigue – A sense of constant tiredness, which is one of the most common symptoms
- Difficulty walking – Coordination and balance issues can make walking challenging
- Numbness or tingling – Often occurs in the face, body, or extremities like the arms and legs
- Muscle weakness or spasms – Uncontrollable muscle movements and a loss of muscle strength can occur
- Problems with coordination and balance – These can affect movement and cause unsteadiness
- Blurred or double vision – Visual disturbances can occur, often as one of the first symptoms of MS
- Dizziness or vertigo – A feeling of spinning or a loss of balance can be experienced
- Bladder or bowel problems – Including frequent urination, strong urges to urinate, or constipation
- Cognitive changes – Such as memory problems, shortened attention span, or difficulties with language
Multiple Sclerosis Treatment
While there’s currently no cure for multiple sclerosis (MS), there are various treatment options available to manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life. Treatment is usually a multi-faceted approach that may include:
- Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs) – These medications can reduce the frequency and severity of MS attacks, slow disease progression, and limit new disease activity
- Symptom management medications – Different medications can be used to treat specific symptoms like fatigue, muscle spasticity, pain, and bladder or bowel control problems
- Physical therapy – Physical therapy can help manage symptoms like fatigue, difficulty walking, and balance problems, and maintain physical function
- Lifestyle changes – Regular exercise, a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and stress management can also play a role in managing MS symptoms
- Supportive therapies – Occupational therapy, speech, and language therapy, and psychological support can help manage the impact of MS on daily life
Multiple Sclerosis Care in South Carolina
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Carolina Orthopaedic & Neurosurgical Associates. We’re dedicated to restoring your well-being and helping you resume the activities you love. Schedule an appointment at any of our locations that is most convenient for you. We’re here to support your journey to health.