What are you looking for?
Where did you receive care?
-
Virginia Mason Medical Center & regional centers
Log in to MyVirginiaMason > -
All other locations
Log in to MyChart >
Multiple Sclerosis
If you’re experiencing unexplained vision problems or numbness and tingling in your limbs, it could be multiple sclerosis (MS). Virginia Mason Franciscan Health provides a prompt evaluation and therapies from specialists who are leaders in the field.
Multiple sclerosis treatment at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health: Why choose us?
We offer services that are recognized by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society as Centers for Comprehensive Care. The team includes neurologists, rehabilitative physicians and more. Explore our MS comprehensive care center services.
What happens when I have MS?
Multiple sclerosis occurs when the immune system attacks the nerves’ protective covering (myelin). It causes damage (lesions) that interrupts brain signals to other areas of the body. Lesions can lead to various symptoms affecting your ability to see, walk, speak and more.
Multiple sclerosis symptoms
Each person experiences multiple sclerosis differently, including which symptoms occur, how severe they are and how long they last.
MS symptoms include:
- Dizziness or feeling unsteady on your feet
- Eye problems such as blurry or double vision and vision loss
- Memory issues
- Mood disturbances
- Numbness and weakness that may make once-simple movements difficult
- Slurred speech
- Unusual tiredness (fatigue)
Multiple sclerosis evaluation and diagnosis
Our specialists listen closely as you describe your medical history, lifestyle and when symptoms began. We may also order tests, such as:
- Neurologic exam: We evaluate nerve function, reflexes and coordination.
- Imaging: MRI studies show lesions on your brain or spinal cord. If you haven’t had an MRI or we need additional views, scans are typically available in the same location as our office.
- Lumbar puncture: This test uses a sample of cerebrospinal fluid to check for proteins the body releases when there’s myelin damage.
- Blood tests: We use this test to rule out conditions like lupus and vitamin deficiencies that may cause MS-like symptoms.
Multiple sclerosis treatments
Your personalized multiple sclerosis treatment plan may include:
-
There are many types of MS medications. Some may reduce the frequency and severity of relapses. We may prescribe other drugs to manage symptoms like pain, difficulty walking and muscle spasticity. Our active participation in national research gives you access to additional options through clinical trials. Find out more about our neuroscience research and academics.
-
Neurorehabilitation includes therapies and other services that help you cope with MS symptoms. A physical medicine doctor (physiatrist) with a particular interest in neurologic disorders guides therapies that enable you to reach your goals. Treatment may involve occupational, physical or speech therapy.
-
Some MS relapses require treatment, while others don’t. We explain the best methods for getting relief, so you know exactly what to do. Relapse therapy often involves large doses of steroids by mouth or through a vein (infusion). Our infusion centers are in locations throughout the Puget Sound.
-
Even when symptoms feel under control, we see you periodically to ensure you are receiving all the multiple sclerosis treatments you need.
Many patients undergo imaging, a checkup with an MS specialist and rehabilitative therapies on the same day. If imaging shows signs of new or worsening lesions, we talk to the radiologist immediately to confirm these findings. This close collaboration enables us to make timely adjustments to your treatment plan, so you maintain excellent results.
Your questions about MS answered
Multiple sclerosis can bring changes to your life, but our team helps you feel prepared and supported. At your appointment, we take time to explain your diagnosis, review how treatment works and address your concerns. You can get started by reading our multiple sclerosis FAQs.
Find a specialist
Our specialists care for patients across the Puget Sound area and beyond. Find an MS specialist near you.