Medically reviewed by Seunggu Han, M.D. —
Written by June Halper, MSN, APN-C, FAAN, MSCN
— Updated on August 5, 2021
Overview
Multiple sclerosis (MS) can affect many different parts of the body. Managing it typically involves a team of doctors and healthcare professionals. They will work closely with you to determine the best course of care. An MS team typically includes the following health professionals.
Primary care physician
If you have any symptoms of MS, see your family doctor or primary care physician (PCP) first. After your doctor takes a physical exam and reviews your medical history, they may refer you to a neurologist
Neurologist
A neurologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases of the nervous system. You’ll find neurologists in:
private practices
community-based MS centers
academic settings
general clinical settings
A neurologist is involved in testing, diagnosis, treatment, and symptom management.
Information to have handy
Before your appointment with a neurologist, it’s a good idea to write down a few things. Your neurologist will ask many questions to help them make an accurate diagnosis. Having the answers ready will help with the process. Some questions you may be asked include:
What are your symptoms?
When did they begin?
Are they constant or do they come and go?
What makes your symptoms worse?
What makes them better?
How severe are they?
Does anyone in your family have MS?
What other medical conditions do you have?
What medications do you take?
Questions to ask
You should also consider writing down questions you’d like your doctor to answer for you. Some things you might want to ask include:
Do you think I have MS?
How will we know for sure?
Is there a test?
What else might be causing my symptoms?
Can this be treated?
Will it go away?
Is it going to get worse?
What do you recommend?
Neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist will help you manage your mental function. MS can cause difficulties with memory, focus, information processing, and problem solving. A neuropsychologist might teach you exercises to help maintain and improve mental function.
Nursing professional
A clinical nurse specialist, nurse practitioner, or registered nurse might be involved in your care. These professionals have advanced training. They can help you in many areas, including:
adjusting to your diagnosis
ongoing assessment and management of symptoms
counseling
maintaining general good health
giving medication
monitoring side effects
communicating with the healthcare team
Social worker
A social worker is trained to assist you in identifying and accessing:
community services
programs
resources
entitlements
Social workers are also trained to provide counseling, emotional support, and crisis intervention.
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