How is MS Treated?
Although there is still no cure for MS, effective strategies are available to:
- Modify the disease course, reduce number of relapses, rates of progression and development of new lesions through the use of FDA-approved, disease-modifying drugs
- Treat acute attacks, also known as relapses or exacerbations, to shorten the duration and reduce the severity
- Manage symptoms successfully with strategies that include medication, self-care techniques, rehabilitation (with a physical or occupation therapist, speech/language pathologist, cognitive remediation specialist, among others), and the use of assistive devices
- Improve function and safety through fitness, rehabilitation, energy management, and rehabilitation (physical and occupational therapy, vocational and cognitive rehabilitation)
- Provide emotional support-- Mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors) are the members of the health care team that can help people living with MS and their friends and family meet the emotional, social, and vocational challenges of this unpredictable, chronic disease.
In combination, these strategies enhance the quality of life for people living with MS.
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