Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune, inflammatory condition that more commonly affects women in their 20’s and 30’s from the northern parts of the world. However, Dr. Agarwal has male and female patients from all over the world with various ages with MS.

MS affects the central nervous system and can be highly variable. Some patients have aggressive disease affecting many parts of their body, and other patients may have one vision loss episode and be otherwise symptom-free.

The inflammation of this condition affects the myelin, or insulating sheath, around the nerves in the body. Therefore, when the brain is sending messages to other areas, the information may get delayed or not reach at all. Symptoms may include weakness in arms and legs, weakness of the bladder, vision problems, and mental health issues. See “optic neuritis” for more information about the eye problems.

The diagnosis of MS is often made by assessment of symptoms, physical examination, and radiologic imaging including MRI. MRI of the brain, eye sockets, and spine may show areas of inflammation that are seen in MS.

Treatment is customized for each individual patient. New symptoms are often treated with a combination of steroids taken orally and intravenously. Patients may be treated in the long term with medication that changes the way the immune system acts and ideally, decreases the number of inflammation episodes.

This disease can be extremely frustrating and confusing for patients. Dr. Agarwal enjoyed reading the book Voices of MS, and perhaps you will too. It is helpful look at the symptoms of MS and the first hand experiences of patients with the disease.

Dr. Agarwal has evaluated and treated many patients with Multiple Sclerosis. Please email or call for a consultation so we can help you.