Addressing Your Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms in Central California

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a neurological condition that affects the nerves in the brain and spine. It breaks down the protective coating around these nerves, causing nerve communication to be disrupted and in some cases, blocked completely. 

The symptoms of MS vary widely, but generally affect motor skills and neurological functions. If you or a loved one is having difficulty thinking, muscle weakness, balance problems, or blurry vision, Dignity Health Central California can help.

Our skilled neurologists work closely with other specialists to identify and diagnose MS symptoms in Central California, as part of our neurology services. Use our online search tool and Find a Doctor today.

 

Common Signs of MS

The MS symptoms you or a loved one may experience depend greatly on how the disease is affecting the nervous system. In general, signs of MS can include: 

  • Vision problems, such as blurry or poor color vision and pain when moving the eyes
  • Tingling or numbness in the face, hands, and feet
  • Muscle weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Generalized pain
  • Muscle spasms
  • Stiffness
  • Reduced or complete loss of cognitive function
  • Balance problems, including dizziness
  • Difficulty walking
  • Speech problems or difficulty swallowing
  • Bladder and bowel incontinence
  • Changes in mood, including depression

For one or more of these symptoms, meet with a doctor at Dignity Health Central California at your nearest location.

 

Diagnosing MS Symptoms at Dignity Health Central California

Because MS shares many of the same symptoms as other neurological disorders, a series of tests may be needed to determine a diagnosis and provide treatment. 

At Dignity Health Central California, our neurologists work to rule out potential conditions, starting with a medical history review. Next, the doctor may test muscle tone and reflexes. Diagnostic tests to diagnose MS may include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), spinal tap, or visual evoked potential (VEP). Your doctor can give you details about each test, including how to prepare. 

A special set of criteria — including damage to the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord — is used to confirm a diagnosis. Your doctor will create a personalized care plan, focused on preserving muscle function and slowing MS from progressing — offered with humankindness at every step. 

Dignity Health Central California provides world-class care for evaluating symptoms of MS in Bakersfield, and Stockton, CA.