Multiple Sclerosis and Veterans (MS & Vets‪)‬ Veterans Health Administration

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an excellent resource for people with MS. MRI studies provide a safe and non-invasive way to obtain detailed images of the brain and spinal cord, without any radiation exposure. Join Dr. Mitch Wallin to learn more about the importance of MRI in MS care.

Vision is very important in almost everything we do, including watching television, reading a book, driving, and many other activities. When MS disturbs vision, it can have a significant impact on quality of life. People with MS can have different kinds of vision problems. Join Dr. Kimberly Winges to learn about vision dysfunction in people with MS and how best to address those symptoms.

MS symptoms are variable and unpredictable. The duration and severity of symptoms may fluctuate over time. Most people do not have all the possible symptoms of MS, and no two people have the same combination or severity of symptoms. Join Dr. Andrew Romeo, MD to learn about the symptoms of MS, as well as some methods to manage them.

MS can affect the ability to perform activities of daily living. Driving is the most complex activity of daily living performed every day. Driving requires adequate vision, motor, memory, and thinking skills, and MS can affect all these areas. Join Patricia Niewoehner, OTR/L, CDRS to learn how MS can affect driving, what to look out for, and the adaptive equipment available to help keep you safe.

Approximately 40-65% of people with MS experience noticeable changes in cognitive functioning related to their MS. For some, these changes are fairly minor, while for others, the cognitive changes significantly disrupt their daily lives. Declining cognitive functioning is among the top concerns for those with MS because this can affect employment, relationships, driving, health management, and other important areas of daily life. Join Annette Askren, CScD, CCC-SLP to learn about this important topic.

All people with MS should discuss taking a disease modifying therapy (DMT) with their MS provider. When offered, most people with MS choose to take them. Fortunately, we now have several DMTs that slow the course of MS. These medications have all been proven to benefit people with MS in well-designed large studies. Because DMTs, like any medication, come with risks, people with MS must decide for themselves. Join Dr. Kayla Martin to better understand your DMT options.