Multiple Sclerosis

Neurology Institute of Huntsville, Inc. - Board-Certified Neurologists located in Huntsville, AL

Multiple Sclerosis Specialist

It’s estimated more than one million Americans are living with multiple sclerosis. Though there’s no cure, with early intervention and treatment, it’s possible to reduce uncomfortable symptoms. At the Neurology Institute of Huntsville, board-certified and fellowship-trained neurologist Jitesh Kar, MD, boasts years of experience treating multiple sclerosis. To make an appointment at the practice in Huntsville, Alabama, call the office or click the online booking feature today.

Multiple Sclerosis Q&A

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease that affects your brain and spinal cord. Specifically, it causes your immune system to attack the lining of your nerves (called the myelin sheath). As the lining of your nerves deteriorates, it causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body.

There’s no way to cure multiple sclerosis, but thanks to advances in medication and therapy, it’s possible to minimize flare-ups and manage symptoms.

What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis?

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:

Numbness or weakness in your limbs
Shock-like sensations triggered by specific neck movements
Lack of coordination
Abnormal gait
Blurry vision
Slurred speech
Dizziness

As the condition progresses and gets worse, you might also experience a loss of bladder or bowel control.

What causes multiple sclerosis?

Researchers aren’t entirely sure why multiple sclerosis affects some people and not others. Currently, it’s thought that several factors contribute, including environmental factors and genetics.

How is multiple sclerosis diagnosed?

There’s no specific test that can diagnose multiple sclerosis. Instead, Dr. Kar orders several screening procedures that can rule out other medical conditions. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, he might order blood tests, magnetic resonance imaging, an evoked potential test, or a Lumbar Puncture/Spinal Tap.

Blood tests can rule out diseases that present similar symptoms, an MRI can pinpoint multiple sclerosis lesions on your brain or spinal cord, and an evoked potential test records your nervous systems’ response to certain stimuli.

After gathering the necessary information, Dr. Kar can develop a custom treatment plan.

How is multiple sclerosis treated?

There’s no cure for multiple sclerosis, but it’s possible to slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms that interfere with your quality of life. There are a variety of prescription drugs that can reduce the frequency of flare-ups and make it easier to stay mobile.

Oral Medication like Aubagio and Tecfidera
Injections like Copaxone
Infusion like Ocrevus and Tysabri
Multiple new Medication options that depend on the patient’s case

To learn more about the various treatment options for multiple sclerosis, make an appointment at the Neurology Institute of Huntsville by calling the office or clicking the online scheduling tool today.

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