{"id":10976,"date":"2024-12-17T12:34:17","date_gmt":"2024-12-17T17:34:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/?page_id=10976"},"modified":"2025-03-08T10:27:43","modified_gmt":"2025-03-08T15:27:43","slug":"overview","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/conditions\/multiple-sclerosis\/overview\/","title":{"rendered":"Learn About Multiple Sclerosis"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"hero-container hero-container__hero-small_image\">\n  <div class=\"hero hero-small_image\">\n    <div class=\"hero__title_container\">\n      <h1 class=\"hero__title\">\n                  Learn About MS\n              <\/h1>\n              <nav class=\"breadcrumbs\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumb\">\n\t<ol class=\"breadcrumbs__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\">Home<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\">Pages<\/a><\/li>\n\t\t\t<\/ol>\n<\/nav>      \n          <\/div>\n          <div class=\"hero__image-container\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/gb-abi-sci-stroke-ms-concussion-imaging-radiology-0087.jpg?ver=1732653844\" alt=\"A medical professional assists a patient in a radiology room. The patient is seated next to a large imaging machine, while the professional operates a computer displaying the patient's scans. Both are wearing protective gear.\"\/>\n      <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--text-html\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block text-content\">\n\t\t<h2>Learn more about MS \u2013 the autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system<\/h2>\n<p>Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It occurs when the body\u2019s defense system attacks the central nervous system, damaging the protective insulation, known as the myelin, that surrounds the nerve fibers. Any time part of the myelin sheath or nerve fiber is damaged, nerve impulses traveling between the body and brain are interrupted, causing various symptoms associated with MS.<\/p>\n<p>Nearly one million people in the United States have MS, making it one of the most common neurological diseases. MS can appear at any age but most commonly manifests between the ages of 20 and 50 and affects women three times as often as men.<\/p>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--text-html\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block text-content\">\n\t\t<h2>Quick facts about MS<\/h2>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\t<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--data-point\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block data-point--multi\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point__title-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"data-point__title\">1,000,000<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<hr\/>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point__description-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"data-point__description\">Nearly one million people in the U.S. are living MS. <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"data-point__description-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalmssociety.org\/understanding-ms\/what-is-ms\/who-gets-ms\"  target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNational MS Society\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point__title-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"data-point__title\">3<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<hr\/>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point__description-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"data-point__description\">Women are 3 times more likely to get MS than men.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"data-point__description-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalmssociety.org\/understanding-ms\/what-is-ms\/who-gets-ms\"  target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNational MS Society\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point__title-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"data-point__title\">20-50 <\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<hr\/>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"data-point__description-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"data-point__description\">Most people are diagnosed with MS between 20-50 years old. <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"data-point__description-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nationalmssociety.org\/understanding-ms\/what-is-ms\/who-gets-ms\"  target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNational MS Society\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--text-html\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block text-content\">\n\t\t<h2>Types of MS<\/h2>\n<p>MS can present in four different forms: Relapsing-Remitting MS, Secondary-Progressive MS, Primary-Progressive MS, and Progressive-Relapsing MS. Each type has unique characteristics that impact the progression and management of the disease. Learn more about these MS types and their distinct traits.<\/p>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--buttons idf-block\">\n\t<div class=\"is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-button\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"wp-fancy__link\" href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/conditions\/multiple-sclerosis\/types\/\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tTypes of MS\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--text-html\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block text-content\">\n\t\t<h2>How is MS tested and diagnosed?<\/h2>\n<p>Multiple sclerosis (MS) cannot be diagnosed with a specific symptom or single lab test. Instead, physicians rely on several strategies and diagnostic tests to confidently make a diagnosis and rule out other possible conditions. Diagnosing MS quickly and accurately is important as neurologic damage can occur in the early stages of MS.<\/p>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--accordion idf-block accordion\" id=\"accordionFlush5885\">\n            <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5885_1\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5885_1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5885_1\">\n          What are the criteria for a MS diagnosis? <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5885_1\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5885_1\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5885\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>A set of diagnostic parameters, known as the McDonald Criteria, makes the process easier and more efficient in diagnosing MS in new patients. To fulfill a definite diagnosis of MS, an individual must have met the following criteria:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Evidence of damage in at least two separate areas of the central nervous system (CNS), including the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.<\/li>\n<li>Evidence of damage occurring at least one month apart.<\/li>\n<li>All other possible diagnoses have been ruled out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If an individual does not meet all the criteria, the case will not be considered MS.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n          <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5885_2\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5885_2\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5885_2\">\n          How is MS diagnosed?<span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5885_2\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5885_2\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5885\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>The first step in diagnosing the disease is thoroughly reviewing your medical history. During this time, your healthcare provider will gather information about birthplace, family history, environmental exposures, and other illnesses that may meet any risk factors for MS.<\/p>\n<p>Along with your medical history, a physical and neurological exam is used to confirm MS symptoms while testing the nerves that control your vision, strength, and hearing.<\/p>\n<p>The medical history and exam can often provide enough evidence to meet the diagnostic criteria. However, additional testing may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis further or rule out other conditions that may cause symptoms like MS.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n          <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5885_3\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5885_3\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5885_3\">\n          How do you test for MS?<span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5885_3\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5885_3\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5885\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><h4>MRI scans<\/h4>\n<p>An MRI is the best imaging technology to detect scarring or MS plaques in different parts of the central nervous system (CNS). This test can also distinguish old MS plaques from those currently active or new ones.<\/p>\n<h4>Visual evoked potential (VEP) tests<\/h4>\n<p>An Evoked potential (EP) test records the nervous system\u2019s electrical response to stimulation to isolated sensory pathways such as visual, auditory, or general sensory. Because slowed response time results from damage to myelin, EPs can often find the existence of scarring along nerve pathways, something neurological exams may miss. Visual evoked potentials are found to be most useful in confirming MS diagnosis.<\/p>\n<h4>Spinal fluid analysis<\/h4>\n<p>A spinal tap can reveal whether you have any antibodies linked to MS. It can also work like a blood test to rule out other diseases and infections that cause similar symptoms.<\/p>\n<h4>Blood tests<\/h4>\n<p>While there are no definitive blood tests for diagnosing MS, they can rule out other conditions that may mimic MS symptoms, including Lyme disease, collagen-vascular diseases, rare hereditary disorders, and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--text-html\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block text-content\">\n\t\t<h2>What are the early symptoms of multiple sclerosis?<\/h2>\n<p>Recognizing what the early signs of MS is critical for timely detection and intervention. While symptoms may differ from person to person, certain common indicators might suggest MS.<\/p>\n<p>While MS can be challenging, with the right support and resources, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. While it\u2019s still unclear why it\u2019s triggered in some people and not others, advancements in MS research have been key for changing the course of treatment and management of MS.<\/p>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--accordion idf-block accordion\" id=\"accordionFlush5361\">\n            <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5361_1\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5361_1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5361_1\">\n          Factors that may contribute to multiple sclerosis  <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5361_1\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5361_1\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5361\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>Many people often ask, &#8220;How do you get MS?&#8221; While the cause of MS is still unknown, scientists believe that certain genetic makeups are more predisposed to MS, and when exposed to certain environmental factors, can trigger the change in the immune system that causes MS.<\/p>\n<h4>Genetics<\/h4>\n<p>Genes play a role in MS, but they are only part of the story. While there\u2019s no single gene that will cause someone to develop MS, having certain genes can make a person more susceptible.<\/p>\n<h4>Environments<\/h4>\n<p>Your environment may play a role in your risk for developing MS. For example, locations farther from the equator have higher rates of MS, possibly due to less intense sun exposure and lower vitamin D levels.<\/p>\n<h4>Infections and viruses<\/h4>\n<p>Many latent viruses and bacteria, such as measles and Epstein-Barre virus (the virus that causes mononucleosis), may play a role in triggering MS symptoms and disease activity.<\/p>\n<h4>Lifestyles<\/h4>\n<p>Lifestyle factors, like smoking and obesity in childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood, are linked to increasing a person\u2019s risk of developing MS.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n          <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5361_2\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5361_2\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5361_2\">\n          Common early indicators of multiple sclerosis symptoms <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5361_2\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5361_2\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5361\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>The most common MS symptoms tend to indicate early signs of MS and can occur alone or in combination with other symptoms such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fatigue<\/li>\n<li>Heat intolerance<\/li>\n<li>Sensory dysfunction (such as numbness, stiffness, dizziness, or vertigo)<\/li>\n<li>Pain<\/li>\n<li>Motor dysfunction (such as muscle weakness, muscle spasticity, or impaired motor control)<\/li>\n<li>Bladder\u202fdysfunction<\/li>\n<li>Bowel dysfunction<\/li>\n<li>Vision (such as blurred vision, poor contrast, pain, optic neuritis, or other impairments)<\/li>\n<li>Sexual dysfunction<\/li>\n<li>Cognition (such as problems processing information, learning new information, problem-solving, focusing, or understanding the environment)<\/li>\n<li>Mood\u202f(such as depression, mood swings, anxiety, laughter, crying, or irritability)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n          <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5361_3\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5361_3\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5361_3\">\n          Lesser common early signs of MS <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5361_3\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5361_3\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5361\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><ul>\n<li>Speech disorders include slurring and dysphonia<\/li>\n<li>Swallowing problems or dysphagia<\/li>\n<li>Hearing loss<\/li>\n<li>Seizures<\/li>\n<li>Tremors<\/li>\n<li>Breathing problems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--text-html\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block text-content\">\n\t\t<h2>Managing MS symptoms<\/h2>\n<p>Living with multiple sclerosis can be challenging, but there are effective ways to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. Although there is no cure for MS, medications and therapies can help slow disease progression, manage symptoms, and reduce relapses. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest can also help reduce fatigue, improve strength, and enhance overall well-being.<\/p>\n<p>Supportive therapies \u2014 including physical, occupational, and speech therapy \u2014 can improve mobility, daily living skills, and communication abilities. Counseling and support groups provide emotional support and guidance, helping individuals and families cope with the challenges of MS.<\/p>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--accordion idf-block accordion\" id=\"accordionFlush6574\">\n            <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_6574_1\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_6574_1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_6574_1\">\n          When should I see a healthcare professional for my MS symptoms? <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_6574_1\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_6574_1\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush6574\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>If you are experiencing early MS symptoms that are out of the ordinary and last for more than 24 hours, make an appointment to see your doctor or specialized MS care team for investigation and diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and enhance overall quality of life.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/services-clinics\/ms-institute\/care-team\/\">MS care team at Shepherd Center<\/a> has exceptional knowledge and experience treating patients with MS, so we understand how to differentiate the disease from similar conditions. We offer second opinions to confirm your initial diagnosis. We also offer continuation of treatment or adjustments to your medical care plan once you are diagnosed.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--text-html\">\n\t<div class=\"idf-block text-content\">\n\t\t<h2>Understanding MS flare-ups and relapses<\/h2>\n<p>Most forms of MS involve periods when symptoms worsen, known as flare-ups, attacks, or relapses. These occur when the immune system mistakenly targets the protective covering of nerve fibers, causing inflammation and nerve damage. Flare-ups can lead to symptoms like increased fatigue, numbness, balance issues, speech difficulties, blurred vision, and cognitive problems.<\/p>\n<p>The frequency and duration of flare-ups vary\u2014some may last a few days, while others can persist for months. Managing flare-ups involves working with a healthcare team to reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and make lifestyle adjustments that support overall health and well-being.<\/p>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--accordion idf-block accordion\" id=\"accordionFlush5327\">\n            <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5327_1\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5327_1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5327_1\">\n          Triggers and causes of MS flare-ups <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5327_1\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5327_1\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5327\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>The exact cause of MS flare-ups remains unclear. However, several factors contribute to their occurrence. Risk factors such as age, gender, family history of MS, and certain genetic factors can contribute to MS flare-ups. Lifestyle factors like smoking, lack of exercise, and poor diet may also increase the likelihood of flare-ups.<\/p>\n<p>Environmental triggers can also contribute to MS flare-ups. Changes in temperature, particularly extreme heat or cold, can increase symptoms. Exposure to certain infections, such as the flu or urinary tract infections, can also trigger a flare-up. Stress, both emotional and physical, can contribute to flare-ups as it may disrupt the immune system, leading to increased inflammation and symptom onset. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and seeking support from loved ones can help minimize stress&#8217;s impact on MS.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n          <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5327_2\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5327_2\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5327_2\">\n          MS flare-up symptoms <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5327_2\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5327_2\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5327\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>Varying from mild to severe, MS flare-ups may cause new symptoms and\/or the exacerbation of existing symptoms. Some flare-ups produce only one symptom related to inflammation in a single area of the central nervous system. Other flare-ups cause two or more symptoms simultaneously related to inflammation in more than one area of the central nervous system. To be a true exacerbation, the attack must last at least 24 hours and be separated from the previous attack by at least 30 days.<\/p>\n<p>Common symptoms of MS flare-ups include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fatigue<\/li>\n<li>Dizziness<\/li>\n<li>Balance and coordination problems<\/li>\n<li>Vision trouble<\/li>\n<li>Bladder issues<\/li>\n<li>Numb or tingling feelings (pins and needles)<\/li>\n<li>Memory problems<\/li>\n<li>Trouble concentrating<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n          <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5327_3\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5327_3\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5327_3\">\n          Preventing and managing MS flare-ups <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5327_3\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5327_3\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5327\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>Managing and preventing MS flare-ups is essential, and various strategies exist to reduce their frequency and severity. A comprehensive treatment plan for managing and preventing MS flare-ups may include various components such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)<\/li>\n<li>Corticosteroids to reduce nerve inflammation<\/li>\n<li>Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis)<\/li>\n<li>Infusion treatments<\/li>\n<li>Oral and injectable treatments<\/li>\n<li>Muscle relaxants<\/li>\n<li>Physical, occupational, and\/or speech therapy<\/li>\n<li>Health and wellness strategies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It&#8217;s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication, lifestyle, or exercise routine. They can provide personalized advice and develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs to effectively manage and prevent MS flare-ups.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n          <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n      <h3 class=\"accordion__title\" id=\"flush-heading_5327_4\">\n        <button class=\"accordion__trigger\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" data-bs-target=\"#flush-collapse_5327_4\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"flush-collapse_5327_4\">\n          Where should I go for MS flare-up management? <span class=\"sp-before-icon\"><\/span>\n        <\/button>\n      <\/h3>\n      <\/h2>\n      <div role=\"region\" id=\"flush-collapse_5327_4\" class=\"accordion__content\" aria-labelledby=\"flush-heading_5327_4\" data-bs-parent=\"#accordionFlush5327\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__content-wrap text-content\"><p>At the <a href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/services-clinics\/ms-institute\/\">MS Institute at Shepherd Center<\/a>, we understand the unique challenges posed by MS flare-ups. Our specialized care is designed to provide comprehensive treatment plans addressing the specific needs of patients experiencing flare-ups. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals is committed to providing high-quality care. We develop personalized treatment plans tailored to individual symptoms and goals.<\/p>\n<p>Our comprehensive treatment plans include medication management, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling services, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of flare-ups. We believe in collaborating with other healthcare professionals, including neurologists, primary care physicians, and specialists, to ensure patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"paragraph-widget paragraph-widget--link-block idf-block\">\n\t<div class=\"link-block\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"link-block__label\">Continue Exploring<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/conditions\/multiple-sclerosis\/types\/\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTypes of MS\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/services-clinics\/ms-institute\/treatment\/medical-clinic\/\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMS Medical Clinic\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/services-clinics\/ms-institute\/treatment\/rehabilitation\/\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMS Rehabilitation\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/shepherd.org\/treatment\/services-clinics\/ms-institute\/treatment\/wellness\/\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMS Wellness Program\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the impact of multiple sclerosis on the body and mind. 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