Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis Evaluation and Neurological Care
Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system that can cause vision loss, numbness, weakness, imbalance, fatigue and bladder symptoms. Symptoms typically evolve over days to weeks. Many patients referred for possible MS turn out to have another explanation, which is why careful evaluation matters.
Symptoms that raise the question of MS
- Painful vision loss in one eye
- Numbness or tingling spreading over days
- Weakness in a limb or new imbalance
- Double vision
- Band-like sensation around the trunk
- Marked fatigue or heat sensitivity
- New bladder urgency or retention
Evaluation
- Neurological examination
- MRI of the brain and spinal cord with contrast when appropriate
- Laboratory studies to evaluate for conditions that mimic MS
- Spinal fluid analysis in selected patients
- Evoked potential testing when it adds information
Care after diagnosis
Care includes discussion of disease-modifying therapy options and their monitoring requirements, treatment of relapses when they occur, and management of symptoms such as fatigue, spasticity, bladder dysfunction, pain and cognitive complaints.
Coordination with physical therapy, urology, ophthalmology and rehabilitation is common. Vaccination, vitamin D status and general preventive care are part of routine follow-up.
Exercise, fitness and MS
Exercise is recommended in MS and is associated with better strength, walking, fatigue and mood. Programs are individualized, often combining aerobic work at a tolerable intensity, resistance training and balance training, with attention to heat sensitivity, cooling and pacing.
Smoking cessation, cardiovascular risk control, sleep and a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern are reasonable, evidence-aligned components of general health in MS. Restrictive or unproven diets and supplement regimens are not recommended.
When to be seen promptly
Frequently asked questions
- Do white spots on an MRI mean multiple sclerosis?
- No. Nonspecific white matter changes are common and have many causes, including migraine and small vessel disease. MS diagnosis requires a specific pattern of findings interpreted with the clinical history.
- Is exercise safe in MS?
- For most people, yes, and it is beneficial. Programs should account for heat sensitivity, fatigue, balance and individual limitations.
Care across Northwestern Illinois & Southern Wisconsin
Patients travel from McHenry County, the northwest Chicago suburbs, the Fox Valley and southern Wisconsin for this care. In-person visits take place in Crystal Lake and Woodstock, Illinois and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Telehealth is available to patients located anywhere in Illinois or Wisconsin when clinically appropriate.
Schedule a Neurology Appointment
Choose the scheduling line for the state where you will be located for your appointment.
In-Person Neurology Visits
Available at three office locations:
Crystal Lake, Illinois
Woodstock, Illinois
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Telehealth Neurology Visits
Telehealth neurology appointments are available to patients located anywhere in Illinois or Wisconsin. You do not need to live near an office, but you must be physically located in Illinois or Wisconsin at the time of the appointment.
Learn about telehealth neurology →Call to schedule
Illinois appointments: 815-337-7100. Wisconsin appointments: 262-245-0535.
Choose your visit
Our office will confirm whether an in-person or telehealth visit is appropriate and provide the details.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention.