Your Trusted Partner for Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology
You never have to face health hurdles alone. When you need expert guidance for multiple sclerosis (MS) or another neuroimmunological condition, our team is here to provide the very best treatment options for you, with personal guidance at every step.
Helping You Understand Neuroimmunological Conditions
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Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a chronic autoimmune disease of the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) that disrupts the exchange of information within the brain and between the brain and body. With MS, the body’s immune system responds abnormally against the central nervous system. Scientists believe a combination of factors, such as environment, genetics, immunology and infections, triggers MS.
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Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is also known as Devic's disease. NMO is a rare condition where the immune system damages the spinal cord and the nerves of the eyes (the optic nerves).
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Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody Disease (MOGAD)
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD) is an autoimmune disorder that shares many symptoms with MS. When antibodies attack the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein that insulates the nerves of the central nervous system (which consists of the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves), it can disrupt nerve signals in the body.
Neuroimmunological Symptoms and Diagnosis
Our trusted neurologists are ready to help you identify the signs and symptoms of various neuroimmunological conditions and deliver an accurate diagnosis, so you know your best next steps. And you can breathe easy knowing our compassionate care teams will be with you the whole way in managing your condition.
- Recognize the Symptoms
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Symptoms of MS are caused by central nervous system damage, and most often include:
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Loss of vision in one eye or double vision
- Numbness and tingling
- Problems with memory and concentration
- Weakness
Symptoms of NMO vary by person and can also range from mild to severe, and can include:
- Bladder and bowel problems
- Eye pain
- Increased sensitivity to cold and heat
- Loss of vision and/or colors appearing less vivid
- Pain in the arms or legs
- Sexual dysfunction
- Tight and painful muscle spasms in the arms and legs
- Vomiting
- Weakness in the arms and legs
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, vision changes (optic neuritis) and spinal cord inflammation (transverse myelitis) are common in MOGAD. Symptoms caused by optic neuritis include:
- Eye pain
- Loss of color vision
- Loss or blurring of vision in one or both eyes
Symptoms caused by transverse myelitis include:
- Loss of bowel or bladder control or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Paralysis
- Shooting pain or tingling in the neck, back or abdomen
- Spasticity (increased muscle tone or stiffness in the arms or legs)
- Weakness, numbness or loss of sensation
- Get the Diagnosis You Need
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It can be overwhelming to get diagnosed with a neuroimmunological condition. Rest assured, we have guided many patients through diagnosis and treatment and beyond, and will help ensure you have the resources you need and the support you deserve. Our team is passionate about caring for your whole health in body, mind and spirit.
Request an Appointment With a Neuroimmunologist
Whether you’re experiencing new symptoms or were recently diagnosed with a neuroimmunological condition, the compassionate care you need is close to home. Request a visit with one of our experienced neuroimmune disease specialists to begin a personalized treatment plan that supports your whole health.
Devoting All Our Expertise to Helping You Heal
Your healing is our whole focus. From clinical trials that develop new treatments to leading-edge technologies that mean a smoother recovery, we’re dedicated to raising the bar for neurological care with your whole health in mind. Explore how we’ll support you and your loved ones with the most advanced care and the utmost compassion.
Resources
From support groups and educational guides to caregiver support, financial assistance and more, we offer a range of resources to help you and your loved ones better understand and manage your condition.
Research
Innovative care starts with medical research. See how we’re developing new treatments and procedures, leading concussion and brain injury-related studies, conducting clinical trials for stroke care and more.
Technology
Explore how we use robotic technologies, precise therapies and leading-edge techniques to care for epilepsy, eliminate masses with less pain, treat brain tumors in a matter of hours and much more.
Answering Your Questions About Neuroimmunological Conditions
If you're living with a neuroimmune disease, we're here to answer commonly asked questions to help you take your next step toward whole-person health. Our providers are committed to helping you feel informed, comfortable and confident throughout your healing journey.
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Q:Question: What are the early warning signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis?
A:Answer:The early warning signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) can show up differently in every person. However, common signs and symptoms include:
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Extreme fatigue
- Loss of vision in one eye or double vision
- Numbness and tingling
- Problems with memory and concentration
- Urinary urgency or incontinence
- Weakness
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Q:Question: What is a multiple sclerosis relapse, and when should I call my doctor?
A:Answer:A multiple sclerosis relapse is the sudden flare-up of old or new MS symptoms after a period of remission. MS relapses are caused by inflammation in the central nervous system, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. It’s best to visit your doctor if your symptoms last more than 24 hours or are present without a fever or infection. It’s important that you call your doctor for every relapse to ensure you and your care team are keeping track of your condition and can adjust treatment if necessary.
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Q:Question: Can MS symptoms come and go?
A:Answer:Yes, symptoms of MS can come and go. This hallmark sign of MS is caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking the protective nerve coverings (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms coming and going are known as relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), where people experience relapses or flare-ups, followed by a period of remission.
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Q:Question: What causes numbness, tingling or vision changes in MS?
A:Answer:In patients with MS, their immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the protective nerve coverings (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord. This leads to various neurological symptoms, such as numbness, tingling and vision changes, as their nerves send incorrect signals.
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Q:Question: Can lifestyle changes help manage multiple sclerosis symptoms?
A:Answer:Yes, research shows that lifestyle changes can help to manage symptoms of MS. Beyond symptom management, lifestyle factors may slow progression of the disease. According to the National Library of Medicine, smoking cessation, regular physical activity, engaging in physical therapy for MS, sleep optimization and weight management are supported by robust data and can be helpful for people with MS.
Find Brain Health Care Near You
You and your family don’t have to go far to find comprehensive and compassionate brain health care within the AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute network. Our brain health experts, neurologists and neurosurgeons offer specialized treatments for the full range of brain health conditions — from Alzheimer’s disease to sports concussions — all coordinated through a trusted national network. Explore your care options close to home with our dedicated team's guidance. We’ll help you find the right fit, so you’re in the best setting to get the care you need.