How does AndHealth treat multiple sclerosis?
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ken Mankowski, DO FACN, AndHealth neurologist
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers (myelin). This disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms. MS often develops between the ages of 20 and 40, and its course can be unpredictable, with periods of flare-ups and remissions.
AndHealth treats people living with MS in Ohio and Indiana with a whole person, comprehensive approach. You will work with a coordinated neurology care team with decades of experience, including a board-certified neurologist and a clinical pharmacist.
Common MS symptoms
While symptoms vary widely, common experiences include one or more from this list.
These and any other symptoms will be evaluated as part of your appointments with the AndHealth neurology provider team.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
- Vision problems, such as blurred or double vision
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Difficulty with balance and coordination
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Pain and mood changes
Lifestyle tips
Daily strategies can help manage MS and improve quality of life.
These lifestyle habits may be part of a personalized treatment plan that your AndHealth neurologist team creates for you, based on your health needs.
- Following a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Staying active with gentle exercise like walking, swimming, or yoga
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or mindfulness
- Prioritizing rest and energy conservation strategies
- Avoiding overheating, which may temporarily worsen symptoms
- Avoid tobacco use
- Limit sugar intake
Specialty medications
MS medications work by calming the immune system, reducing relapses, slowing disease progression, and protecting nerve function. These treatments may be oral, injectable, or infused. They are filled by a specialty pharmacy.
These medications may be considered for your multiple sclerosis treatment plan during your visits with your neurologist and clinical pharmacist providers.
Medications used for MS
Learn more about the other neurologic conditions we treat
Chronic Migraine
Chronic migraine is a neurological condition defined by having headaches on 15 or more days each month, with at least eight of those days showing migraine features such as throbbing pain, nausea, or light sensitivity.