Dr Barbara Geisser 

Providence Saint John’s Health Center

consider this as a sort of “Introduction to MS”

…….. here are some key concepts

• MS is the second most common cause of neurologic disability among young adults( ages20-50)
• Currently affects about 1,000,000 people in US
• It is characterized by different areas  of nerve damage in the Central Nervous System ( brain, spinal cord & optic nerve)
• The damage is done by the immune system gaining entry into the nervous system and attacking what it would otherwise defend( “auto immunity”)
• Early diagnosis is important because MS is TREATABLE. ( can discuss ways to diagnose)
• Treatment consists of medications to help prevent future damage, and medications and other strategies to treat symptoms and maximize function.
• Lifestyle practices and choices are an important part of the overall management of person with MS, to be combined with medical management.
• Multiple healthcare professionals may be involved in helping persons with MS.