Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
A diagnosis of multiple sclerosis — or symptoms that might point to it — raises a lot of questions. The neurology team at Saint Joseph Health System evaluates, diagnoses, and manages MS for patients across Mishawaka and South Bend, with ongoing support close to home.
Schedule an appointment or call 574-335-6450.
Rehabilitation and Wellness
What is MS, and what are the symptoms?
Multiple sclerosis is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective coating around nerves in the brain and spinal cord, disrupting the signals between the brain and the body. It affects each person differently and, for most people today, is a manageable, chronic condition. Symptoms vary widely and can come and go — they may include numbness or tingling, fatigue (one of the most common and draining symptoms), muscle weakness, vision changes, balance or coordination problems, and difficulty with thinking or memory. Because these overlap with many other conditions, a neurologist's evaluation is essential.
How MS is diagnosed and treated
There is no single test for MS. Your neurologist makes the diagnosis by combining your history and exam with an MRI of the brain and spinal cord, and sometimes analysis of spinal fluid. While there is no cure, effective treatments can reduce relapses, slow the disease, and manage symptoms — often disease-modifying therapies chosen to fit your situation, along with treatments for specific symptoms and support from rehabilitation as needed. Because MS is a long-term condition, our team focuses on an ongoing partnership to help you protect your function and quality of life. Existing patients can message the team anytime through MyChart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Numbness or tingling, vision changes in one eye, fatigue, or weakness — often coming and going.
MS is two to three times more common in women, and while symptoms overlap between men and women, some women notice that symptoms shift with hormonal changes. The core signs — numbness, fatigue, vision changes, and weakness — are similar for everyone and are worth evaluating.
There is no single test; diagnosis combines your history and exam with MRI imaging and sometimes spinal fluid analysis.
For most people, MS is not fatal and does not dramatically shorten life; it is a manageable, chronic condition, and modern treatments can slow its progression.
Yes. Disease-modifying therapies and symptom treatments can reduce relapses, slow the disease, and help you maintain function.