About MS
Understanding MS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system. Autoimmune conditions occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. In the case of MS, the body attacks the myelin sheath, a protective covering that surrounds nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.
As myelin degrades, a process called demyelination, nerves become inflamed and nerve signals slow down or stop, resulting in symptoms like numbness, weakness, vision changes, cognitive difficulties, motor problems, and mobility challenges.
There is currently no known definitive cause of, or cure for, MS. Our research partner, the Tisch MS Research Center of New York, works tirelessly to this end. Thankfully, scientific advancements in recent years have produced highly effective therapies for managing MS symptoms.
MS affects women approximately 3x more than men, and is the leading cause of non-traumatic physical disability in young adults.
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The 4 MS Subtypes
There are 4 main types of MS:
Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS)
About 85% of patients present with RRMS, in which patients periodically experience new or worsening symptoms (relapses) followed by gradual improvement of those symptoms (remission). While there can be months to years between relapses, MRIs often show that there has been ongoing ‘silent’ inflammation between events.
Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS)
Some patients with RRMS develop SPMS. With SPMS, patients experience fewer or no periods of remission, and their symptoms gradually worsen over time.
Primary Progressive MS (PPMS)
PPMS affects about 10-15% of patients. It is technically its own unique disease, and patients with PPMS gradually worsen from the onset of their symptoms (essentially “skipping” RRMS). They do not experience periods of remission.
Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)
CIS is a single episode of MS-like symptoms that lasts for more than 24 hours and usually develops into RRMS.
Diagnosing MS
There is no one test to diagnose MS. Clinicians use multiple methods including assessing the patient’s history, neurologic examination, blood testing, MRIs of the brain and spinal cord, and occasionally a lumbar puncture. Sometimes disease progression occurs without changes in symptoms, which makes MRIs an invaluable tool. MRIs reveal areas of inflammation, which we refer to as lesions or scars. Changes in the shape, location, or size of lesions give providers a more complete picture of disease status.
After diagnosis, your neurologist will work with you to build a custom treatment plan focused on your individual goals and lifestyle. This may include oral or infused medications, as well as lifestyle adjustments, physical or occupational therapy, and addressing other aspects of life that can also affect MS.
