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Multiple Sclerosis

Emory MS Center

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), it’s the start of a long journey. You may have been living with different symptoms for years without knowing why.

Every person’s journey with MS is different, but we’re here to help.

Founded in 2008, the Emory MS Center provides dedicated care for multiple sclerosis. Our team also treats immune-related central nervous conditions.

Conditions we treat include:

  • Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis
  • Autoimmune encephalitis
  • Infections of the central nervous system
  • MOGAD (myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease)
  • Neuromyelitis optical spectrum disorder
  • Neurosarcoidosis
  • Transverse myelitis
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Why Choose Emory Healthcare?

At the Emory MS Center, our multidisciplinary team partners with you to provide personalized care. The MS team includes experts in:

  • Neurology
  • Neuro-ophthalmology
  • Neuropsychology
  • Pharmacy
  • Physical therapy
  • Rehabilitation
  • Urology

Our doctors and scientists also lead research projects and clinical trials for MS. You may have access to new treatments by participating in a clinical study.

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects your brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). It causes your immune system to destroy the protective covering (called the myelin sheath) around the nerves in your brain.

 

This destruction disrupts signals going to and from the brain. Your brain doesn’t send nerve impulses properly or doesn’t send them at all.

 

There are three types of MS:

Risk Factors for Multiple Sclerosis

The causes of MS are unknown, but some factors can increase your risk. Among them:

  • Age: 20-40 years old
  • Genetics: Family history of MS
  • Geographic location: Northern United States
  • Lifestyle: Smoking, low vitamin D, exposure to pesticides
  • Sex: Females
  • Virus exposure: Epstein-Barr virus or mononucleosis

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

Symptoms of MS vary from person to person and over the course of the disease. They also can look like many other conditions. Common signs of MS may include:

  • Inability to move your arms, hands, feet or legs
  • Loss of balance
  • Mood changes
  • Numbness and weakness
  • Problems with thinking, memory and concentration
  • Shaking you can’t control (tremors)
  • Sudden muscle tightening (spasms)
  • Vision problems and eye pain

Episodes can last for days, weeks or months. They can alternate with periods of reduced or no symptoms. Fever, hot baths, sun exposure and stress can trigger or worsen attacks.

MS can also cause other symptoms that aren’t always directly related to an attack. These effects may include:

  • Depression
  • Headaches
  • Inability to tolerate heat
  • Incontinence
  • Pain

Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis

There’s no single test to diagnose MS. Your doctor will review your health history and discuss your symptoms. You also may have tests such as:

  • Eye exam: Checks vision and pupil responses
  • Lab work: Tests blood and urine
  • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): Examines spinal fluid
  • MRI: Examines the brain and spine
  • Neurological exam: Assess nerve function, reflexes, sensation and coordination

Multiple Sclerosis Treatments

MS is a lifelong condition, and currently, there is no cure. But treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

The Emory MS Center offers a variety of research-based treatments, state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care for MS.

Find an Emory Doctor

Emory Healthcare doctors provide specialized treatment and research the latest advancements.

Explore our Network

To expand your options, explore our network of providers throughout Atlanta and the surrounding counties.
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Make an Appointment with Emory Neurology & Neurosurgery

Create a MyChart account to schedule online.

For the neurology department, call 404-778-3444.

For the neurosurgery department, call 404-778-5770.

network_intelligence

Make an Appointment with Emory Neurology & Neurosurgery

Create a MyChart account to schedule online.

For the neurology department, call 404-778-3444.

For the neurosurgery department, call 404-778-5770.