Multiple sclerosis (MS), is a rare autoimmune disease involving the central nervous system, specifically, the brain and spinal cord. According to the Mayo Clinic, in MS, “the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body.”
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society states that there is no known cause nor cure for this disease that afflicts more than 2.3 million people worldwide. Even though there is no known cure at the present time, early treatment can help to minimize some of the symptoms and potentially reduce long-term damage. Thus, early intervention is critical.
Diagnosing MS can be difficult as its symptoms are not
always so specific to MS. The most common symptoms of MS are overwhelming fatigue,
visual disturbances, altered sensation and difficulties with mobility. Because
there is no one definitive lab test for MS, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),
may be necessary to accurately diagnose multiple sclerosis.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have questions about multiple sclerosis, do not hesitate to raise those concerns with your health care provider. Please feel free to visit either our Miami-Dade or Broward, Primary Medical Care Centers, where our friendly and knowledgeable health care team will be willing to assist you.