Monitoring multiple sclerosis (MS) for treatment options through regular visits to an MS specialist can postpone relapses and improve quality of life.

“MS is a complicated disease that affects each patient differently. By seeing patients regularly, we are able to reduce MS attacks or relapse and speed recovery,” said Geeta A. Ganesh, M.D., MPH, a Norton Neuroscience Institute neurologist specializing in MS and neuroimmunology.

Key MS treatment options include medication, rehabilitation and other comprehensive symptom management that can make a big difference over time.

Studies have shown treating MS successfully can prevent relapses and delay the accumulation of disabilities by years, especially when patients receive treatment in the early stages of the disease.

The Norton Neuroscience Institute Hussung Family Multiple Sclerosis Center offers a full array of medical, nursing, mental health, rehabilitation and social services in one location. MS patients receive one comprehensive exam per year, giving them a chance to meet with the multidisciplinary team.

Patients also receive regular check-in appointments to discuss symptoms, well-being and how medications are working. During these visits, patients can discuss modifying treatments or making lifestyle or other changes to lessen any bothersome side effects. Patients with urgent concerns visit the clinic as needed.

MS patients sometimes stop taking medication on their own because of side effects. This increases relapse risk and the likelihood of an MS flare.

With MS, the immune system attacks the myelin protective coating around nerves. Nerve pain, numbness or weakness often result.

MS patients can experience other symptoms, such as bowel and bladder issues, sleep disturbances, severe fatigue, depression, anxiety, cognitive dysfunction, sexual dysfunction and vertigo.

“We offer a patient-centered approach at the Hussung Family Multiple Sclerosis Center,” Dr. Ganesh said. “We want to educate our patients and work with them on their best treatment options for their disease and all their symptoms.”

MS treatment options part of annual exams

At the Hussung Family Multiple Sclerosis Center, the annual exam may include a physician visit with a full physical exam and review of diagnostic tests, including an MRI, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy, an optical coherence tomography (OCT) exam, consultation with a pharmacist, a meeting with an MS nurse patient navigator, lab work and diagnostic test scheduling.

Norton Neuroscience Institute Resource Centers provide additional support at no cost. The resource center team includes social workers and patient navigators who work exclusively with MS patients and families navigating a diagnosis.

The Hussung Family Multiple Sclerosis Center has been designated a Center for Comprehensive MS Care by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Studies show a comprehensive approach like the one offered at the Hussung Family Multiple Sclerosis Center, which offers the latest diagnostic tools and MS treatment options, helps patients live their best lives.

Norton Neuroscience Institute neuroimmunologists and others regularly participate in clinical trials to gain experience with emerging therapies and give patients access to novel treatments.