Multiple sclerosis
Our MS specialists offer expert diagnosis, the latest disease-modifying therapies and whole person support to help you or your loved one stay active, independent and in control of your life.
What you need to know
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic automimmune condition affecting the central nervous system, causing the immune system to attack the protective myelin sheath around the nerve fibers. This disrupts the communication between the brain and the rest of the body, causing a wide range of physical and cognitive symptoms that very from person to person.
At Atlantic Health, our neurologists and care team partner with you from the first diagnosis through every stage of treatment - helping you maintain mobility, reduce symptoms and live fully.
Related services and specialties
What increases your risk for MS?
MS can affect anyone, but research has identified several factors that are associated with a higher likelihood of developing the condition. Understanding your risk is the first step toward early monitoring and prompt diagnosis if symptoms arise.
Women
Adults between the ages of 20 and 50
People of Northern European descent
Individuals with a family history of MS
People who smoke
Individuals with low vitamin D levels or limited sun exposure
People who have had certain viral infections, particularly Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)
Having one or more of these risk factors does not mean you will develop MS. Many people with risk factors never develop the condition, and MS does occasionally occur in people with no known risk factors. If you are concerned about your risk, our specialists can help you understand your individual situation.
Recognizing the symptoms of MS
MS is called the "disease of a thousand faces" because no two patients experience it the same way. Symptoms depend on which nerves are affected, and they can come and go (relapses and remissions) or gradually worsen over time. Some people have a very mild symptoms for years; others experience more significant disability earlier.
Common MS symptoms
Fatigue
Weakness or heaviness in the limbs
Difficulty walking or problems with balance and coordination
Numbness, tingling or "pins and needles" sensation in the face, arms, legs or trunk
Leg stiffness or muscle spasms
Vision problems
Including blurred vision, double vision or partial loss of vision
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Bowel or bladder dysfunction
Cognitive changes
Painful muscle spasms
Heat sensitivity
See a neurologist if you experience symptoms that are new, unexplained or recurring—especially if they affect your vision, balance or ability to move normally.
How MS symptoms show up for women
MS is three times as common in women as in men. Though the symptoms and treatments often look similar, how the disease shows up can be different for women.
How is MS diagnosed?
There is no single test that diagnoses MS. Because MS symptoms can mimic those of other conditions, our team uses a comprehensive evaluation process to confirm the diagnosis, rule out other causes and establish a clear clinical picture before recommending treatment.
Blood tests
Cognitive testing
Evoked potentials
Tests that measure how quickly and accurately the brain responds to certain stimuli
Physical examination of muscle reflexes
After completing your evaluation, our neurologists will discuss the findings with you in plain language, answer your questions and outline next steps.
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MS treatment options
While there is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis, treatment has advanced dramatically in recent decades. Today's therapies can significantly slow the progression of the disease, reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms and protect long-term neurological function-allowing most people with MS to live full, active lives.
Treatments and therapies we offer
Your treatment plan is built around your specific type of MS, your symptoms, lifestyle and goals.
These medications are the cornerstone of modern MS management. They work by reducing inflammation, decreasing relapse rates and slowing the accumulation of new lesions.
- Immunomodulators - oral, injectable or infusion therapies that regulate the immune response such as interferons.
- Chemotherapy - certain chemotherapy agents are used in specific cases of aggressive or rapidly progressing MS
- Corticosteroids - high-dose steroids are used to shorten and reduce the severity of acute MS relapses.
- Pain management - medications and non-pharmacological strategies for neuropathic pain and muscle spasms
- Neurotoxin therapy for movement disorders - used to treat severe spasticity and overactive bladder
- Medicine management - careful coordination of your full medication regimen to minimize side effects and interactions
- Physical therapy - exercises and techniques to improve strength, balance, gait and reduce fall risk
- Occupational therapy - strategies and adaptive tools to maintain independence in daily activities
- Speech and swallowing therapy - for patients experiencing dysarthia or dysphagia
- Exercise programs - supervises, MS-appropriate fitness plans to reduce fatigue and maintain function
- Nutrition plans - evidence-based dietary guidance to support overall wellness
- Social work and counseling - support for emotional adjustment, coping strategies and mental health
- Vocational rehabilitation - help maintaining or returning to work
Managing multiple sclerosis (MS) may sometimes seem like an uphill battle, but finding a network of support can be helpful in maintaining a positive outlook on life.
MS clinical trials
Access new MS treatments and therapies through ongoing clinical trials.