Getting amultiple sclerosisdiagnosis can be a lengthy process since it usually involves multiple steps.
(Myelin is usually compared to the insulation coating on electrical wires.)
When the myelin is damaged, your nerve signals cant function properly, according to theU.S.
If you’re trying to get an MS diagnosis, then knowing what to expect makes the process easier.
National Library of Medicine.
There are known MS symptoms but they can vary from person to person.
About 85% of people with MS have this form of the condition, according to theU.S.
Department of Veterans Affairs.
(In this case, you may or may not have remission periods.)
Beyond that, its not really known.
Anyone can be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis,Dina Jacobs, M.D., clinical director of the Penn M.S.
Every persons journey to being diagnosed with MS can be different.
Some individuals may see their primary care physician firstsometimes repeatedlybefore being referred to a neurologist.
Unfortunately, there isnt one test that can identify whether you have MS or not.
There also isnt a single MS gene that doctors can screen for, according to Dr. Lannen.
Testing really starts with a physical exam and finding out a patients medical history, Dr. Hutton says.
From there, your doctor will likely recommend you undergo specific tests to help them determine a diagnosis.
You may receive an IV injection of a substance that highlights MS lesions in your body.
The presence of those lesions suggests your multiple sclerosis is active, the Mayo Clinic says.
MRI is the most helpful test, but its not perfect, Dr. Hutton says.
We find lesions in a lot of people.
That alone doesnt make the diagnosis, but certainly strengthens our suspicions, Dr. Hutton says.
The response times can indicate damage associated with MS, Dr. Moses says.
Doctors can use several types of diagnostics to identify multiple sclerosis.
The Schumacher criteria was the first standardized set of MS diagnostics released in 1965.
In 2001, McDonald criteria2was released and included MRI testing.
But every persons MS journey is different, and your treatment will reflect that.
As Dr. Jacobs explains, treatments are individualized based on your symptoms and how advanced your case is.
Its a discussion that focuses on potential benefit and potential risk, Dr. Moses explains.
Keep in mind that your treatment options may change over time based on new research and newly available therapies.
double-check you have ongoing conversations with your doctor about which treatment options may be best for you.
