Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis in Houston, TX
25+ Years of Experience Treating Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis, commonly known as MS, is a condition that affects the brain, spine, and optic nerves. This disease disrupts the central nervous system and can make life challenging. More than two million people around the world currently have MS and require treatment. There is currently no cure for the condition, but help is available. Neurology Consultants of Houston offers the latest treatments to ease the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that carries profound implications. The immune system is triggered to attack myelin, a sheath that protects the nerves. Myelin controls the speed and accuracy of information as it travels from the brain to the body. When this sheath is damaged, information between the brain and body is misconstrued, resulting in debilitating symptoms.
Causes of Multiple Sclerosis
Scientists have not determined exactly what causes multiple sclerosis. However, extensive research has discovered vital factors that heighten the risk of developing MS. Studies found that women are four times more likely to develop MS than men, leading scientists to theorize that the disease may be linked to hormones. Studies also found that those with a Northern European lineage are the most at-risk ethnic group. Other key factors that may play a role in developing this condition are smoking, obesity, genetics, and low vitamin D levels.
Early Signs of Multiple Sclerosis
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary greatly. One person may have numerous early onset symptoms, and another person may only have one. As the disease progresses, some may develop new symptoms, while others do not. The most reported early-onset signs that multiple sclerosis causes are weakness, fatigue, pain, bladder issues, blurred vision, dizziness, stiffness, emotional changes, and memory problems.
Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis
A multiple sclerosis diagnosis can be challenging. While diagnoses can begin with ruling out other illnesses, this is a slow process. There are many different ways to diagnose MS using modern medicine. Your neurologist will pay attention to balance, vision, speech, and reflexes to determine if there is an issue with your central nervous system. There are also sensory evoked potential studies in which the brain’s electrical activity is monitored while being stimulated by sight, sound, and touch. Lumbar punctures may also be done, testing your spinal fluid for changes. One of the most common methods of testing for MS is MRI imaging. These imaging machines can show brain inflammation patterns consistent with MS.
Treatment Options for Multiple Sclerosis
While there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, there are many treatment options available for reducing symptoms and relapse rate. There are specific lifestyle changes that can help with symptoms. Exercise, quality of sleep, and healthy eating are all common suggestions to improve quality of life. Different therapies have also proven helpful, with physiotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy being the most recommended. There are also medications available to treat nerve pain, and steroids to aid in the event of a relapse. Your neurologist may prescribe tablets or injections for these courses of treatment. Prescription medicines to avoid relapse of MS are available as well.
Contact Neurology Consultants of Houston
The team at Neurology Consultants of Houston is ready to help you heal. We pride ourselves on dedicating our time, energy, and resources to helping you live your best life. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms related to multiple sclerosis, schedule an initial appointment with our team today.