Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS), is a long-lasting disease that can affect your brain, the optic nerves in your eyes and spinal cord. It can cause problems with balance, basic body functions, muscle control and vision.

The effects are often different for everyone who has this condition. Some people have mild symptoms and do not require treatment while others may have trouble getting around and performing daily tasks.

MS happens when your immune system attacks myelin, a fatty material which wraps around your nerve fibers to protect them. Without this outer shell, your nerves become damaged and scar tissue may form.

Damage from this means your brain can’t send signals through your body correctly. Your nerves also don’t work as they should to help you move and feel. Because of this, you may have symptoms like:

• Blurred or double vision
• Depression
• Feeling tired
• Muscle weakness or spasms
• Numbness and tingling
• Pain
• Poor bladder or bowel control
• Problems focusing or remembering
• Sexual problems
• Trouble walking

The first symptoms often appear between the ages of 20 and 40.

Some people, after suffering from the first symptoms, may experience “attacks” or “relapses,” when the condition gets noticeably worse. Typically, the relapses are followed by times of recovery when symptoms improve. However, for some, the disease continues to worsen over time.

In recent years, scientists have found many new treatments that can help prevent relapses and slow the effects of this condition. Comprehensive MS care begins with the diagnosis and lasts a lifetime. Learn how to work with our Health First Medical Group Neuroscience team to reduce disease activity, manage symptoms and maintain your quality of life.

In addition to the early detection and diagnosis of MS, Health First Neurosciences provides a variety of traditional and cutting-edge techniques for the treatment of MS. Take comfort in knowing you are in good hands and that our team is available 24/7 in the event of a medical emergency.

Support Groups

Click here to access the Brevard County Eau Gallie MS Self-Help Group website

Click here to access the Mid-Florida National MS Society Chapter website

Resources

Click here to access the National Multiple Scleorsis Society website