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An MS diagnosis can raise a lot of questions, especially about what comes next. Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. When myelin is damaged, communication between the brain and the rest of the body can be disrupted. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include changes in vision, movement, sensation, coordination, memory and speech. While there is no cure for MS, treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce relapses and modify the course of the disease. Experts in Temple’s Multiple Sclerosis Program provide specialized care tailored to your needs and goals. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking a second opinion, schedule an appointment.
An MS diagnosis can raise a lot of questions, especially about what comes next. Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. When myelin is damaged, communication between the brain and the rest of the body can be disrupted. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include changes in vision, movement, sensation, coordination, memory and speech. While there is no cure for MS, treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce relapses and modify the course of the disease. Experts in Temple’s Multiple Sclerosis Program provide specialized care tailored to your needs and goals. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or seeking a second opinion, schedule an appointment.
There is no single test for multiple sclerosis. Diagnosis involves putting together information from your symptoms, a neurological examination, MRI findings and, in some cases, an analysis of spinal fluid obtained through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). MRI can help identify changes in the brain or spinal cord that are consistent with MS, but those findings are considered alongside other information. Blood tests may also be used to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. If you have already been diagnosed elsewhere and want a second opinion, we are glad to review your diagnosis.
Treatment generally focuses on two areas: modifying the course of the disease and managing symptoms. Disease-modifying therapies can help reduce MS attacks and prevent new areas of damage from appearing on MRI. There are more than 20 medications approved to help prevent MS attacks and new MRI lesions. Treatment also addresses symptoms that can affect daily life, such as fatigue, walking difficulties, bladder problems and changes in thinking or memory. Because MS can change over time, treatment is tailored to the type of MS, the symptoms you experience and how the disease affects you.
A Dedicated MS Program
Multiple sclerosis is the focus of its own program at Temple. The program brings together specialists across disciplines to provide comprehensive care, from diagnosing MS and choosing disease-modifying therapy to managing symptoms and supporting your overall health. Because MS is complex and can affect people differently, treatment is personalized to your needs. Temple offers a full range of approved therapies, including disease-modifying treatments, relapse care and therapies to help manage symptoms.
Care Built Around Your Life
MS can affect many aspects of daily life. Temple’s MS Program addresses both the disease itself and the symptoms that can affect your day-to-day life, including fatigue, urinary problems, muscle stiffness and difficulties with movement, speech or other functions. The treatment plan can be individualized based on the type of MS, symptoms and overall health. The goal is to help you manage the disease while taking your broader health and quality of life into account.
Answers You Can Trust, Including Second Opinions
There is no single test for MS. An accurate diagnosis involves bringing together information from your symptoms and neurological examination with MRI findings. Other tests may also be used to rule out conditions that can cause similar symptoms. At Temple, a neurologist leads the care team and provides a comprehensive examination to help make an accurate diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. If you have questions about a diagnosis or treatment plan you received elsewhere, an MS specialist can provide another perspective.
Expect more from your MS care.
Call 800-TEMPLE-MED or request an appointment online.
Temple University Hospital – Main Campus
3401 N. Broad Street
Ambulatory Care Center, Suite D-101
Philadelphia, PA 19140
Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus
7500 Central Avenue
Physicians’ Office Building
Suite 210
Philadelphia, PA 19111