Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. In MS, inflammation damages myelin, the protective layer that surrounds and insulates nerve fibers, and can also injure the nerve fibers underneath it. When this happens, messages traveling through the nervous system may slow down, become distorted or stop.

MS can look different from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms with long periods of stability, while others have relapses, new MRI findings or progressive changes in mobility, vision, sensation or thinking.

MS is commonly grouped by how symptoms appear and change over time. Understanding the type of MS helps your neurologist recommend treatment and monitor disease activity.

Common MS patterns include:

• Clinically isolated syndrome: A first episode of neurological symptoms caused by inflammation or demyelination, which may or may not lead to MS
• Relapsing-remitting MS: Clearly defined attacks of new or worsening symptoms followed by partial or complete recovery
• Secondary progressive MS: A stage that may follow relapsing-remitting MS, with gradual worsening over time
• Primary progressive MS: Gradual worsening from the beginning, often with fewer clear relapses

Some inflammatory conditions can resemble MS, including transverse myelitis and other autoimmune disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord or optic nerves. Accurate diagnosis is important because treatment choices may differ.

MS symptoms depend on where inflammation or nerve damage occurs. Symptoms may develop suddenly during a relapse or change slowly over time.

Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Numbness or tingling
• Weakness
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Vision changes
• Pain
• Bladder or bowel changes
• Muscle stiffness or spasms
• Walking difficulty
• Problems with memory or concentration
• Mood changes
• Heat sensitivity
• Sexual dysfunction

Seek urgent medical care if you develop sudden weakness, vision loss, severe dizziness, trouble speaking or symptoms that could suggest stroke. MS symptoms can overlap with other neurological conditions, so prompt evaluation helps determine the right next step.

MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the central nervous system. The exact cause is not fully understood, but research suggests that genetics, immune system activity and environmental exposures may all play a role.

Factors associated with higher MS risk include:

• Family history
• Certain infections
• Low vitamin D levels
• Smoking
• Obesity during adolescence

MS is also more common in women than men. Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop MS, and many people with MS do not have a strong family history.

Because MS is complex, evaluation by a neurologist with neuroimmunology experience can help distinguish MS from conditions such as migraine, peripheral neuropathy, spine disorders or other inflammatory diseases.

MS diagnosis is based on symptoms, neurological examination and evidence that inflammation has affected different areas of the central nervous system at different times. Your doctor may order MRI scans of the brain and spine, blood tests and, in some cases, a lumbar puncture to evaluate spinal fluid.

Additional testing may help rule out conditions that can mimic MS, including vitamin deficiencies, infections, autoimmune disorders, vascular conditions and structural spine problems such as spinal stenosis. A careful diagnosis helps avoid unnecessary treatment and ensures that disease-modifying therapy is started when appropriate.

MS treatment focuses on reducing relapses and inflammation, managing symptoms, supporting recovery and protecting long-term function. Your care plan may change over time depending on symptoms, MRI findings, medication response and personal goals.

Treatment options may include:

• Disease-modifying therapies (injectable, oral or infusion medications)
• Short courses of steroids for certain relapses
• Medications to manage symptoms such as pain, spasticity, fatigue, bladder issues or mood changes
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Neurorehabilitation

When symptoms affect movement, balance or daily activities, rehabilitation can help improve safety and independence. Patients with overlapping pain conditions may also benefit from coordinated spine and pain care, including evaluation for related issues such as sciatica or nerve blocks when clinically appropriate.

MS can lead to complications when inflammation, nerve damage or reduced mobility affects daily function. These complications vary widely and may be mild, temporary or more persistent.

Possible complications include:

• Walking difficulty
• Falls
• Muscle stiffness
• Chronic pain
• Bladder infections
• Bowel problems
• Depression
• Cognitive changes
• Sexual dysfunction
• Reduced independence

Some people may also have disability progression over time. Regular follow-up, medication monitoring, rehabilitation and symptom management can help reduce complications and support quality of life.

There is no proven way to prevent MS. However, people living with MS can take steps that may help reduce relapses, protect overall health and lower the risk of complications.

Helpful strategies include taking medications as prescribed, keeping neurology appointments, avoiding smoking, staying physically active within your abilities, managing stress, getting enough sleep, treating infections promptly and discussing vitamin D or nutrition concerns with your doctor. It is also important to report new or worsening neurological symptoms early, especially changes in vision, strength, balance or bladder function.

If you have symptoms that may be related to MS, have been newly diagnosed or want a second opinion, a Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care neurologist can help you understand your diagnosis and treatment options. Bring prior MRI reports, lab results, medication history and a timeline of symptoms to your appointment.

To schedule a visit with a Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care provider, fill out an appointment request form or call 833-596-3876.