Multiple sclerosis is a disorder where the immune system attacks the nerve cells of the brain, eyes and spinal cord.
Dr. Tania Reyna is an autoimmune neurologist at University Health. “The nerve is exposed, and now the impulse is running through that nerve are affected. It either is slowed down or stopped,” Dr. Reyna said.
Dr. Reyna says the cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown but there are some common factors. “Vitamin D deficiency, low exposure to sunlight, smoking is the most common modifiable risk factor for multiple sclerosis,” Dr. Reyna said.
Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Vision problems
- Numbness, tingling or pain
- Muscle spasms, stiffness or weakness
- Problems with thinking, or depression and anxiety
How Is Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosed?
“We can see the typical lesions in the brain or spinal cord, the sort of lesions or scars caused by the attacks of inflammation,” Dr. Reyna said. “That’s why it’s called multiple sclerosis.”
An estimated 2.5 million people live with multiple sclerosis worldwide. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society estimates one million people in the U.S. live with multiple sclerosis. About 200 new cases of multiple sclerosis are diagnosed each week in the U.S.
About 90% of patients have relapsing multiple sclerosis. “That’s why it’s important to be on medication to try to prevent those relapses,” Dr. Reyna said.
Neurology Care at University Health
Learn more about brain and spine care at University Health in San Antonio, where our providers treat brain and spine conditions including multiple sclerosis.
