At Endeavor Health, we know that living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be overwhelming. We're here to provide the support, understanding and care you need throughout your journey.

Understanding multiple sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurological condition that affects the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective layer around nerves, called myelin. This is also what causes the demyelinating lesions seen on MRI imaging.

This process disrupts communication between the brain or spinal cord and the rest of the body and can lead to several symptoms, including weakness, balance problems, vision problems, urinary symptoms and fatigue. Proper and early detection is key to treatment. MS can be unpredictable, but with comprehensive care and management, our goal is for patients to live with as few symptoms and little disability as possible.

Types of multiple sclerosis

Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)

This is the most common type of MS, characterized by flare-ups of symptoms (relapses) followed by periods of partial or complete recovery (remission), as well as evidence of active disease on MRI.

Primary progressive MS (PPMS)

In this type, disability continually worsens over time without many distinct relapses or clear MRI changes, though these can occur.

Secondary progressive MS (SPMS)

After years of relapsing-remitting MS, it can transition to a more steadily worsening of symptoms and disability, usually without further relapses or MRI changes, though these can occur.

Diagnostic tests & screenings for multiple sclerosis

Neurological examination

Assessing cognition, the nerves of the face, strength, sensation, coordination, and reflexes to identify any neurologic abnormalities.

MRI scans

Imaging of the brain and spinal cord, typically with contrast, are performed to detect areas of demyelination (lesions).

Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)

This is sometimes done to test the cerebrospinal fluid for abnormal immune activity, which can help confirm an MS diagnosis.

Blood tests

Used to rule out other conditions that might mimic MS symptoms, as well as tests to look for early signs of inflammation.

Ophthalmology exam

Often, a thorough eye exam is done to evaluate whether MS has affected the nerves to the eye or vision.

Treatment for multiple sclerosis

While there is currently no cure for MS, various treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce relapses, and slow disease progression.

Medications that help reduce the frequency and severity of relapses, slow disease progression, and delay or prevent disability. These medications do not treat symptoms, and cannot reverse lesions that have already occurred in the brain or spinal cord.

Medications and therapies to address specific symptoms such as muscle spasms, fatigue, pain, depression or bladder issues.

Helps patients maintain mobility and improve strength and balance, allowing them to maintain independence.

Provides strategies and tools to help patients manage daily activities more effectively and maintain their quality of life, including management of fatigue and heat-related symptoms.

Can help improve speech issues, including word-finding difficulties and cognitive symptoms, with cognitive rehabilitation programs.

Psychologists, who specialize in treating people with chronic neurologic conditions, help to address symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, among others.

Managing multiple sclerosis

Living with MS means learning to manage symptoms and maintain overall health. Our multidisciplinary team at Endeavor Health is here to help you with:

  • Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly and managing stress can have a positive impact on symptom management.
  • Supportive care: We offer counseling, patient education programs and support groups to help you and your loved ones navigate the emotional and mental health challenges of living with MS.
Doctor looking into microscope

Research & innovation

Endeavor Health is committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of multiple sclerosis. We participate in clinical trials and research initiatives to help find better treatments and, one day, a cure for MS. Our patients have access to the latest advancements in MS care, giving them more options and hope for the future.

Find a clinical trial

Frequently asked questions

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, causing a wide range of symptoms and MRI abnormalities due to demyelination.

Early symptoms may include vision problems, numbness or tingling in the limbs, muscle weakness and fatigue. These symptoms are not specific to MS and are often seen in the general population, so start by talking to your primary care doctor.

MS is diagnosed through a combination of neurological exams, MRI scans of the brain and spine, blood work, and, if needed, additional tests like lumbar punctures or evoked potential tests to detect damage to the central nervous system.

Currently, there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but there are many approved disease-modifying therapies that can prevent relapses and slow disease and disability progression.

Treatment includes disease-modifying therapies that alter the course of the disease and help patients manage symptoms, including medications, physical, occupational and speech therapies, as well as lifestyle modifications to improve quality of life. An MS treatment team typically includes other specialists, such as urology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, ophthalmology, psychology and psychiatry.

Physical, occupational and speech therapies can help improve mobility and balance, manage fatigue, and improve strength and cognition, allowing individuals to maintain independence and manage their symptoms.

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Living with multiple sclerosis can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Endeavor Health, our team is here to provide compassionate, innovative and multidisciplinary treatment options and the support you need to live a fulfilling life.

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Endeavor Health Neurosciences Institute provides advanced care for brain, spine and neurological conditions. With world-class specialists and a commitment to innovation, we’re here to improve lives through compassionate, personalized neurological care.

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