Multiple sclerosis (MS) causes a decline in physical and cognitive function, often leading to disablement. If you have early signs of MS or struggle with your diagnosis, neurologist Shanker Dixit, MD, of Neurology Center of Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada, can help. Dr. Dixit offers advanced treatments for multiple sclerosis to keep you active and enjoying life for longer. To benefit from expert treatment for your MS, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online today.

WHAT IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disabling condition of the central nervous system.

The central nervous system consists of your brain and spinal cord and contains billions of nerves. Multiple sclerosis develops when your immune system becomes dysfunctional and attacks the myelin sheath. Damage to this fatty casing surrounding your nerve cells is known as demyelination.

When demyelination and nerve fiber damage occurs, your brain and body have difficulties communicating with each other, resulting in the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

WHAT SYMPTOMS DOES MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS CAUSE?

Multiple sclerosis causes a variety of symptoms, such as:

• Loss of balance
• Weakness in the limbs
• Fatigue
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Blurred vision
• Muscle stiffness
• Pain

Multiple sclerosis can also affect cognitive functions, so you might have trouble with your memory or find it hard to focus.

ARE THERE DIFFERENT TYPES OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

Neurologists classify multiple sclerosis into four different types:

Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)

CIS causes neurological symptoms due to demyelination and inflammation, but patients don't fulfill all the criteria for a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. However, you may develop MS in the future.

Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)

RRMS patients switch between periods when their symptoms worsen (relapse) and then improve (remission).

Secondary-progressive MS (SPMS)

RRMS progresses to SPMS when the remission periods cease, and your condition continues to deteriorate.

Primary-progressive MS (PPMS)

There are no remission periods with PPMS, but you could experience acute relapses where your symptoms worsen at a faster rate.

HOW IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS DIAGNOSED?

To confirm a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, you have blood tests, and Dr. Dixit performs additional procedures as necessary. These could include a brain and spine MRI scan, a lumbar puncture to extract spinal fluid for testing, and electrical tests called evoked potentials to detect nerve damage that isn't present on an MRI.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS?

Multiple sclerosis is currently incurable, but Dr. Dixit provides effective, personalized treatment programs to address your symptoms. Your plan might include:

• Steroid medications (to reduce nerve inflammation)
• Plasmapheresis (replacing your blood plasma)
• Physical therapy
• Mobility aids
• Muscle relaxants
• Antidepressants
• Pain relief medication

Other medications can help improve walking speed and reduce fatigue. Disease-modifying therapies are drugs that reduce demyelination and may benefit patients who suffer relapses.

When you have multiple sclerosis, changing your lifestyle also plays a vital role in retaining physical and mental function and improving your quality of life. Dr. Dixit can advise you on appropriate diet and exercise programs and help you address issues like smoking cessation and weight loss.

If you have multiple sclerosis or feel concerned you're in the early stages of the disease, call Neurology Center of Las Vegas or book an appointment online today.