Signs of Multiple Sclerosis

With a strong national reputation for comprehensive multiple sclerosis care, our team at University Hospitals expertly diagnoses and treats the most complex cases of multiple sclerosis. Also called MS, our team takes a comprehensive approach to MS management, using a range of advanced therapeutic options, including:

• Multiple sclerosis medication management
• Advanced spasticity management
• Rehabilitation services
• Psychological services
• Wellness

Detecting Early Signs of Multiple Sclerosis is Key for Treatment

Multiple sclerosis is the most common neuroimmunology disorder. When patients have this disease, their immune system attacks their brain and/or spinal cord, resulting in swelling and scarring. This can lead to moderate to severe physical disabilities. While anyone can be diagnosed with MS, it typically affects young adults.

After the onset of the disease, patients usually go through periods of remission and relapse. Early and prompt treatment can prevent relapses and reduce the likelihood of more severe disability. The neurology team at University Hospitals works quickly to help our patients understand their disease and effectively manage their symptoms.

Expert Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms and  Progression at All Stages

During the first few appointments after your diagnosis, our multiple sclerosis doctors will work with you to determine the right therapy to manage your disease and prevent relapses. The most common approach when treating MS includes:

• Steroids medication management
• Immuno-radiology: Imaging and therapy of the brain and spinal cord 
• Immunosuppressant agents: Medications that reduce the strength of the body’s immune system

In addition to treating the disease, we also work with you to figure out the best ways to manage your MS symptoms. We discuss any debilitating problems and establish your quality of life goals. Our multiple sclerosis specialists collaborate with other departments across the UH system to develop a tailored treatment plan including both traditional and nontraditional therapies to control your symptoms and help you reach your personal goals.

Some specific symptoms we treat include:

• Chronic pain
• Psychiatric issues, including depression
• Fatigue, or general tiredness 
• Bladder dysfunction
• Eye movement disorders
• Respiratory, or breathing dysfunction
• Walking or movement issues

University Hospitals is one of the only health systems in the country that looks holistically at each patient’s MS care to treat both the disease and its secondary symptoms. Our goal is to help you return to normal activities and avoid disease recurrence.

Dedicated Approach to Multiple Sclerosis Wellness

With a dedicated approach to MS wellness, University Hospitals provides experienced nurse practitioners who work with you to develop a healthy physical and emotional approach to daily living through multiple MS treatment options, which helps you better manage your disease and symptoms. This may involve creating a new diet and exercise program or helping you stop smoking. Through a wellness approach, we also may recommend physical therapy or psychological counseling, depending on your individual needs.

Comprehensive MS Medication Management Close to Home

For the most effective disease management, MS patients may require complex medications that are typically only available through a specialty pharmacy. To ease the process of obtaining and taking medications, UH has a dedicated MS pharmacist on staff to answer questions, talk through possible side effects, and help you address any issues or concerns.

We also provide easy access to medication management close to home – from many of our convenient locations across northeast Ohio. Access to treatments, including infusion therapy for high dose steroids and disease modifying therapies (DMT), are available at our many regional Outpatient Infusion Centers.