Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that damages the myelin sheath, or insulating material, that surrounds the nerve fibers in the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. Progression of the disease results in loss of axons (nerve cells) and brain atrophy (shrinkage).
The exact cause of MS is unknown. It’s believed to be an autoimmune process triggered by a virus and/or environmental factors. Genetic factors may also determine susceptibility to MS. In autoimmune diseases, the body attacks itself. MS is characterized by attacks, also called flare-ups, or exacerbations. Since no two cases are alike, treatments for the disease may vary. While some patients don’t experience much disease progression, most will experience some level of disability in the years following the onset of MS. This is why it is so important to start therapy or treatment as soon as possible.
At Sunrise Medical Group, our neurologists will order and analyze tests and coordinate treatment to match the correct type of MS in each patient. Several treatments may be tried before the right treatment is found as medications and treatments will vary for each individual patient.
Our comprehensive center offers a wide variety of services to people with MS and their families:
• Diagnosis and second opinions of MS
• On-going medical management and symptomatic treatment
• Patient and family education
• Physical therapy
• Psycho-social evaluations, treatment and counseling
• Bowel/bladder management
• Exercise programs
• Onsite MRI
• Pain Management
• Research
• Referrals for additional treatments (urology, ophthalmology)
