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Neurologists and Specialists of MS
By Matt Cavallo
Recently we looked at the
early signs and symptoms
of MS. The question now becomes, “Who should I talk to about my signs and symptoms?” Let’s look at the different specialists that may be involved in the diagnosis and care of someone living with multiple sclerosis.
Primary Care Physician (PCP) is the primary point person in your care. This is your family doctor, who you will first talk to when experiencing signs and
symptoms
. PCPs are general practitioners who will not only help monitor and manage your condition, but will also refer you to specialists. Talk to your PCP about your MS signs and
symptoms
and ask for a referral to see a neurologist.
Neurologist is a physician that specializes in neurological disorders including MS, stroke, Parkinson’s, and ALS. Finding a neurologist who specializes in MS (aka an MS Specialist) will help ensure that you are up to date on all of the most recent treatments and data. A neurologist will diagnose, monitor, and treat your MS. Diagnosing MS is a long process and involves ruling out other conditions. To diagnose MS, your neurologist will conduct a neurological exam, which is a physical exam to determine nerve function; request MRI studies of your brain and/or spine; and conduct a
spinal tap
. If you are experiencing vision problems, there will be an eye exam, as well. In my case, I was diagnosed with transverse myelitis and probable MS. It wasn’t until my second exacerbation of
optic neuritis
that my diagnosis of MS was confirmed.
In my experience, the relationship with my neurologist has been my most important. However, my neurologist has referred me to other specialists to address other issues associated with MS. These include the tough to talk about issues like
bladder and bowel
,
sexual dysfunction
, and
feelings
. The following are a list of other medical professionals that work with MS patients.
Rehabilitation professionals
are critical to living with MS.
Physical therapists
can help with mobility, walking, and moving around. They work on strength and range of motion.
Occupational therapists
are concerned with the activities of daily living. They can help with dressing, bathing, eating, toileting and transfers.
Speech language pathologists
work to assess, treat, diagnose, and prevent problems in the area of
speech communication
,
cognitive communication
and
swallowing problems
.
Urologist can help with
bladder
and bowel issues. There are some neuro-urologists that specialize in working with people living with neurological conditions like MS.
Neuro-ophthalmologists are doctors with a concentration in neurology and ophthalmology meaning that they are eye doctors, who treat optic neuritis and other
visual conditions
associated with neurological disorders.
Neuropsychologists are doctors who study the behavioral and
cognitive effects
of neurological disorders and how it relates to brain function.
Psychiatrists and psychologists
are doctors who can help with any
depression
or other emotional disorders associated with MS. The critical difference between a psychiatrist and psychologist is that a psychiatrist is authorized to prescribe medicine, whereas a psychologist cannot.
Registered dieticians are trained professional who can help you formulate and maintain a special
diet
. While there are many diet books for MS, there is no proven MS diet. However, a healthy diet can help with
fatigue
, bladder and bowel and other MS symptoms.
Social workers are licensed professionals that can assist you in finding community resources, programs and entitlements. They are also trained in crisis intervention.
Many people rely on their primary care physician to manage their health and their neurologists to diagnose and treat their MS, but there are specialists that can help with the treatment, maintenance, and prevention of signs and symptoms of MS that can help you achieve the best possible outcomes despite living with multiple sclerosis.