Step into the powerful realm of MRI imaging, providing us with an unparalleled view of multiple sclerosis. Discover how acute inflammation becomes vivid with contrast, and how various MRI sequences unveil the past battles fought within your brain and spinal cord. We'll explore advances in techniques, revealing brain shrinkage, gray matter disease and myelin repair. Understand the impact of MS on brain processing efficiency during rest and specific tasks through functional MRI imaging. Crucial questions regarding where and how often to get MRI scans are addressed. Latest guidance on avoiding contrast for routine MRI monitoring in MS shared. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Christina Azevedo MD, Assistant Professor of Clinical Neurology at the University of Southern California Robert Zivandinov MD, PhD, Director of the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center &amp; Professor of Neurology at Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York.

Step into the powerful realm of MRI imaging, providing us with an unparalleled view of multiple sclerosis. Discover how acute inflammation becomes vivid with contrast, and how various MRI sequences unveil the past battles fought within your brain and spinal cord. We'll explore advances in techniques, revealing brain shrinkage, gray matter disease and myelin repair. Understand the impact of MS on brain processing efficiency during rest and specific tasks through functional MRI imaging. Crucial questions regarding where and how often to get MRI scans are addressed. Latest guidance on avoiding contrast for routine MRI monitoring in MS shared. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Christina Azevedo MD, Assistant Professor of Clinical Neurology at the University of Southern California Robert Zivandinov MD, PhD, Director of the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center &amp; Professor of Neurology at Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York.

MRI in MS: From Pixels to Progress

Dive into a deeper understanding of the role of inflammation in causing injury to the brain and spinal cord in multiple sclerosis. It’s a journey marked by ups and downs, where the adaptive immune system composed of lymphocytes (T and B cells) attack myelin and the innate immune system clears damaged myelin. An immune cell called microglia can create smoldering inflammation in MS that poses a threat of progressive disability. Explore the arsenal of MS treatment strategies developed over the past 3 decades to either alter or suppress the immune system to reduce inflammation. Triumphs and limitations of our current MS therapies shared. Antioxidant research, diet and new therapeutics tackling smoldering inflammation bring newfound hope. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Klaus Schemierer MB BS, PhD, FRCP, Professor of Neurology at the Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, and Consultant Neurologist at The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust. Michael Kornberg MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Neurology at John Hopkins.

Dive into a deeper understanding of the role of inflammation in causing injury to the brain and spinal cord in multiple sclerosis. It’s a journey marked by ups and downs, where the adaptive immune system composed of lymphocytes (T and B cells) attack myelin and the innate immune system clears damaged myelin. An immune cell called microglia can create smoldering inflammation in MS that poses a threat of progressive disability. Explore the arsenal of MS treatment strategies developed over the past 3 decades to either alter or suppress the immune system to reduce inflammation. Triumphs and limitations of our current MS therapies shared. Antioxidant research, diet and new therapeutics tackling smoldering inflammation bring newfound hope. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Klaus Schemierer MB BS, PhD, FRCP, Professor of Neurology at the Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, and Consultant Neurologist at The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust. Michael Kornberg MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Neurology at John Hopkins.

Inside MS: Navigating Inflammation

Yes, children can get multiple sclerosis. Children ages 12 and up are more typically affected and rarely before age 8. Awareness is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment of pediatric-onset MS (POMS). Accurate diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in children requires screening for other conditions like MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). Risk factors associated with higher rates of developing MS in kids include Epstein-Barr virus infection, genetic susceptibility, pesticide exposure, smoking (and secondhand smoke), low vitamin D, obesity and diet high in saturated fats. Multiple sclerosis in kids can be very active with frequent relapses and concerning MRI activity kids. Rapid use of highly effective treatment is important to preserve brain health including cognition. Completed and ongoing global pediatric trials are redefining care. Oral fingolimod, for example, reduced relapses by 82% compared to interferon beta-1a injections weekly. Thanks to treatment advancements, teens living with MS have a brighter future ahead of them. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews Brenda Banwell MD, Chief of the Division of Neurology at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Emmanuelle Waubant MD, PhD, Professor of Neurology , University of California San Francisco and Director of the UCSF Regional Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center.

Yes, children can get multiple sclerosis. Children ages 12 and up are more typically affected and rarely before age 8. Awareness is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment of pediatric-onset MS (POMS). Accurate diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in children requires screening for other conditions like MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD). Risk factors associated with higher rates of developing MS in kids include Epstein-Barr virus infection, genetic susceptibility, pesticide exposure, smoking (and secondhand smoke), low vitamin D, obesity and diet high in saturated fats. Multiple sclerosis in kids can be very active with frequent relapses and concerning MRI activity kids. Rapid use of highly effective treatment is important to preserve brain health including cognition. Completed and ongoing global pediatric trials are redefining care. Oral fingolimod, for example, reduced relapses by 82% compared to interferon beta-1a injections weekly. Thanks to treatment advancements, teens living with MS have a brighter future ahead of them. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews Brenda Banwell MD, Chief of the Division of Neurology at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Emmanuelle Waubant MD, PhD, Professor of Neurology , University of California San Francisco and Director of the UCSF Regional Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center.

Multiple Sclerosis in Childhood

Trying to confirm if you have multiple sclerosis can be a frustrating process. Dealing with a new diagnosis a MS can be overwhelming. Julian Gamboa and Dr. Jakai Nolan shed light on a positive path forward living with multiple sclerosis. Julian Gamboa shares his first symptoms of multiple sclerosis including spinning sensation and double vision. He had substantial obstacles and setbacks in being diagnosed including a prolonged hospitalization. After being in a very low place, Julian rallied with the support of others including his family. He conveys how he eventually obtained superb MS care and utilizing his social media guru skills to help others being diagnosed with MS. Dr. Jakai Nolan opens up about her own unique insights on being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis since she is both a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis and a person living with MS. As she shares her own personal story, she reviews key symptoms suggestive of MS and the importance of advocating for prompt evaluation to prevent a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Nolan covers treatment selection, mental health concerns and lifestyle modifications for someone recently diagnosed. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Julian Gamboa is the Social Media Director for Maximum Effort, supporting brands affiliated with Ryan Reynolds including Mint Mobile, Aviation Gin and Wrexham AFC. He was the former senior marketing and social media manager at Adweek. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America. Dr. Jakai Nolan is a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis in Villa Rica, Georgia and Endowed Neurology Chair for Tanner Medical Center. She received her undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University, a Master's degree in Public Health at Emory University and her medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Georgia Campus. Dr. Nolan completed a MS fellowship at OhioHealth.

Trying to confirm if you have multiple sclerosis can be a frustrating process. Dealing with a new diagnosis a MS can be overwhelming. Julian Gamboa and Dr. Jakai Nolan shed light on a positive path forward living with multiple sclerosis. Julian Gamboa shares his first symptoms of multiple sclerosis including spinning sensation and double vision. He had substantial obstacles and setbacks in being diagnosed including a prolonged hospitalization. After being in a very low place, Julian rallied with the support of others including his family. He conveys how he eventually obtained superb MS care and utilizing his social media guru skills to help others being diagnosed with MS. Dr. Jakai Nolan opens up about her own unique insights on being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis since she is both a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis and a person living with MS. As she shares her own personal story, she reviews key symptoms suggestive of MS and the importance of advocating for prompt evaluation to prevent a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Nolan covers treatment selection, mental health concerns and lifestyle modifications for someone recently diagnosed. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Julian Gamboa is the Social Media Director for Maximum Effort, supporting brands affiliated with Ryan Reynolds including Mint Mobile, Aviation Gin and Wrexham AFC. He was the former senior marketing and social media manager at Adweek. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America. Dr. Jakai Nolan is a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis in Villa Rica, Georgia and Endowed Neurology Chair for Tanner Medical Center. She received her undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University, a Master's degree in Public Health at Emory University and her medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Georgia Campus. Dr. Nolan completed a MS fellowship at OhioHealth.

Being Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis

Years before the first typical neurological symptoms of multiple sclerosis such as numbness or visual loss, individuals can have other symptoms that are often overlooked. This period of time is called the MS prodrome. During the prodrome phase, there is an increase in symptoms including skin, gastrointestinal and psychiatric issues. Research may lead to earlier detection of MS. Sometimes brain spots or "lesions" typical of multiple sclerosis can be surprisingly found in people who get an MRI scan of the brain for unrelated reasons such as headaches or head trauma. If the person never had MS symptoms, it's called radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS). RIS risk factors that really increase the risk of a MS relapse include spinal cord lesions, oligoclonal bands in spinal fluid and new MRI lesions over time. Clinical trials for RIS treatment reviewed including recent positive results. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Helen Tremlett PhD, Professor in the Division of Neurology at the University of British Columbia and the Canada Research Chair in Neuroepidemiology and Multiple Sclerosis Erin Longbrake MD PhD, an Associate Professor of Neurology at Yale School of Medicine and Director of Neuroimmunology Clinical Research

Years before the first typical neurological symptoms of multiple sclerosis such as numbness or visual loss, individuals can have other symptoms that are often overlooked. This period of time is called the MS prodrome. During the prodrome phase, there is an increase in symptoms including skin, gastrointestinal and psychiatric issues. Research may lead to earlier detection of MS. Sometimes brain spots or "lesions" typical of multiple sclerosis can be surprisingly found in people who get an MRI scan of the brain for unrelated reasons such as headaches or head trauma. If the person never had MS symptoms, it's called radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS). RIS risk factors that really increase the risk of a MS relapse include spinal cord lesions, oligoclonal bands in spinal fluid and new MRI lesions over time. Clinical trials for RIS treatment reviewed including recent positive results. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Helen Tremlett PhD, Professor in the Division of Neurology at the University of British Columbia and the Canada Research Chair in Neuroepidemiology and Multiple Sclerosis Erin Longbrake MD PhD, an Associate Professor of Neurology at Yale School of Medicine and Director of Neuroimmunology Clinical Research

Earliest Stages of Multiple Sclerosis

Knowing which MS changes are significant enough to warrant speaking up can be hard. Relapses can occur every 1-2 years without treatment, but much less frequently on disease-modifying treatment. Distinguishing between an actual relapse, a pseudorelapse or just brief worsening of symptoms (Uhthoff’s phenomenon) explained. Options for relapses such as steroids, plasmapheresis and ACTH are reviewed. Importance of MRI monitoring addressed since most new MS lesions pop up on MRI scans without actual symptoms. Slow progression of disability can be challenging to detect. Physical changes can include slower walking, worsening balance and more hand coordination problems. Cognitive worsening may be noticeable due to short-term memory loss, word-finding issues and multitasking challenges. Tools to improve monitoring for disease progression highlighted such as in-office testing, remote electronic monitoring and biomarker blood testing. Why multiple sclerosis disability can worsen without MRI change explained. Ways to better advocate for prompt care of worsening MS shared. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews Jacqueline Nicholas MD, System Chief of Neuroimmunology &amp; Multiple Sclerosis at the OhioHealth Multiple Sclerosis Center and James Bowen MD, Medical Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Swedish Neuroscience Institute in Seattle.

Knowing which MS changes are significant enough to warrant speaking up can be hard. Relapses can occur every 1-2 years without treatment, but much less frequently on disease-modifying treatment. Distinguishing between an actual relapse, a pseudorelapse or just brief worsening of symptoms (Uhthoff’s phenomenon) explained. Options for relapses such as steroids, plasmapheresis and ACTH are reviewed. Importance of MRI monitoring addressed since most new MS lesions pop up on MRI scans without actual symptoms. Slow progression of disability can be challenging to detect. Physical changes can include slower walking, worsening balance and more hand coordination problems. Cognitive worsening may be noticeable due to short-term memory loss, word-finding issues and multitasking challenges. Tools to improve monitoring for disease progression highlighted such as in-office testing, remote electronic monitoring and biomarker blood testing. Why multiple sclerosis disability can worsen without MRI change explained. Ways to better advocate for prompt care of worsening MS shared. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews Jacqueline Nicholas MD, System Chief of Neuroimmunology &amp; Multiple Sclerosis at the OhioHealth Multiple Sclerosis Center and James Bowen MD, Medical Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Swedish Neuroscience Institute in Seattle.

Is My MS Controlled?

With over 20 options, what is the best multiple sclerosis treatment for me? Selecting an appropriate disease-modifying therapy (DMT) needs to consider your risk of worsening disability over time. Your age, sex and race can affect your prognosis and can influence the power of treatment chosen. Details about your early relapses and MRI activity are very important for treatment decisions. Treatment selection should also consider responsiveness to vaccines, family planning and other medical problems (another autoimmune disease or cancer). For each individual living with multiple sclerosis, balancing power of treatment against serious risks of treatment needs to be considered.  The future of personalizing care to better pick the right medication shared. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews Celia Oreja-Guevara MD PhD, Vice Chair of Neurology &amp; Head of the Multiple Sclerosis Center, University Hospital, San Carlos, Madrid, Spain &amp; John Foley MD, Director, Rocky Mountain MS Clinic, Salt Lake City, Utah

With over 20 options, what is the best multiple sclerosis treatment for me? Selecting an appropriate disease-modifying therapy (DMT) needs to consider your risk of worsening disability over time. Your age, sex and race can affect your prognosis and can influence the power of treatment chosen. Details about your early relapses and MRI activity are very important for treatment decisions. Treatment selection should also consider responsiveness to vaccines, family planning and other medical problems (another autoimmune disease or cancer). For each individual living with multiple sclerosis, balancing power of treatment against serious risks of treatment needs to be considered.  The future of personalizing care to better pick the right medication shared. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews Celia Oreja-Guevara MD PhD, Vice Chair of Neurology &amp; Head of the Multiple Sclerosis Center, University Hospital, San Carlos, Madrid, Spain &amp; John Foley MD, Director, Rocky Mountain MS Clinic, Salt Lake City, Utah

Personalized Medicine for MS

Digital technology has transformed our lives. For people living with multiple sclerosis, electronic health opens a new world. Biosensors in our smartphones and wearable devices can monitor physical activity levels and sleep and may detect MS disease changes faster than that next neurologist appointment. New apps can help people with MS manage and track their disease including gaming to assess cognition. Digital health is becoming an indispensable part of in-office and virtual patient appointments. Privacy concerns with electronic healthcare addressed. Treatment decisions facing both doctors and patients are getting increasingly complex. New artificial intelligence technology may soon help personalize treatment and predict treatment response using a concept of a digital twin. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care interviews: Jennifer Graves MD PhD is an Associate Professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine and serves as Director of the UC San Diego Neuroimmunology Research Program. Dr. Graves completed a fellowship in neuro-ophthalmology and residency in neurology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. She earned her medical degree and PhD in molecular biophysics from University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. She also holds a master's degree in epidemiology and biostatistics from UC San Francisco. Tjalf Ziemssen MD PhD is founder and director of the MS Center in Dresden, Germany where he did his neurology training. Professor Ziemssen is also Director of the Center of Clinical Neuroscience and the neuroimmunological lab at the Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital in Dresden. He completed his medical training and doctoral thesis at the University of Bochum. He also was a research fellow at the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology.

Digital technology has transformed our lives. For people living with multiple sclerosis, electronic health opens a new world. Biosensors in our smartphones and wearable devices can monitor physical activity levels and sleep and may detect MS disease changes faster than that next neurologist appointment. New apps can help people with MS manage and track their disease including gaming to assess cognition. Digital health is becoming an indispensable part of in-office and virtual patient appointments. Privacy concerns with electronic healthcare addressed. Treatment decisions facing both doctors and patients are getting increasingly complex. New artificial intelligence technology may soon help personalize treatment and predict treatment response using a concept of a digital twin. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care interviews: Jennifer Graves MD PhD is an Associate Professor at UC San Diego School of Medicine and serves as Director of the UC San Diego Neuroimmunology Research Program. Dr. Graves completed a fellowship in neuro-ophthalmology and residency in neurology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. She earned her medical degree and PhD in molecular biophysics from University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. She also holds a master's degree in epidemiology and biostatistics from UC San Francisco. Tjalf Ziemssen MD PhD is founder and director of the MS Center in Dresden, Germany where he did his neurology training. Professor Ziemssen is also Director of the Center of Clinical Neuroscience and the neuroimmunological lab at the Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital in Dresden. He completed his medical training and doctoral thesis at the University of Bochum. He also was a research fellow at the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology.

Digital Health & MS

Multiple sclerosis frequently causes visual impairment. 70% of people living with the disease can develop optic neuritis at some point and often the first sign of MS. The symptoms, medical evaluation, treatment and prognosis of optic neuritis are conveyed. Besides multiple sclerosis, other causes are discussed including MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) and neuromyelitis (NMO). Double vision and shaky (or jumpy) vision are other concerning visual symptoms for people with MS. The reason for these eye movement abnormalities and detailed treatment options are covered. Experts share the latest advancements in vision research for those living with multiple sclerosis. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Dr. Anneke van der Walt is an Associate Professor of Neurology at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. She is the head of the MS and Neuro-ophthalmology Research Group. She completed her undergraduate work in South Africa and completed her neurology training and PhD at the University of Melbourne. She is also the Chief Operating Officer of MSBase Foundation. Dr. Tariq Bhatti is a neuro-ophthalmologist currently at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. He completed his neuro-ophthalmology fellowship at Emory.  Dr. Bhatti was most recently a Professor of Ophthalmology and Neurology at Mayo Clinic and previously Chief of Neuro-ophthalmology at Duke University. 

Multiple sclerosis frequently causes visual impairment. 70% of people living with the disease can develop optic neuritis at some point and often the first sign of MS. The symptoms, medical evaluation, treatment and prognosis of optic neuritis are conveyed. Besides multiple sclerosis, other causes are discussed including MOG antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) and neuromyelitis (NMO). Double vision and shaky (or jumpy) vision are other concerning visual symptoms for people with MS. The reason for these eye movement abnormalities and detailed treatment options are covered. Experts share the latest advancements in vision research for those living with multiple sclerosis. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Dr. Anneke van der Walt is an Associate Professor of Neurology at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia. She is the head of the MS and Neuro-ophthalmology Research Group. She completed her undergraduate work in South Africa and completed her neurology training and PhD at the University of Melbourne. She is also the Chief Operating Officer of MSBase Foundation. Dr. Tariq Bhatti is a neuro-ophthalmologist currently at Kaiser Permanente in Northern California. He completed his neuro-ophthalmology fellowship at Emory.  Dr. Bhatti was most recently a Professor of Ophthalmology and Neurology at Mayo Clinic and previously Chief of Neuro-ophthalmology at Duke University.

Vision & Multiple Sclerosis

Rapid recent advancements have led to blood tests (biomarkers) to track multiple sclerosis disease activity. A biomarker is something that can be measured to check normal functioning or the impact of a disease. Blood biomarkers are common in medicine to measure response to therapy such as measuring hemoglobin A1c levels for diabetic control and cholesterol levels for high cholesterol treatment. Injury to nerve cells (neurons) and other cells in the brain and spinal cord can be measured in the blood by checking levels of proteins such as neurofilament light chains (NfL) and glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP). One panel of these blood markers helps identify people with multiple sclerosis with current active MRI scans. The future of MS biomarkers involves blood tests to diagnose multiple sclerosis, select the best treatment for an individual, and measure treatment response. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Tanuja Chitnis MD, Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, is the Director of both MGB Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center and Translational Neuroimmunology Research Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She is also Co-Director of the Brigham Multiple Sclerosis Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. 

Rapid recent advancements have led to blood tests (biomarkers) to track multiple sclerosis disease activity. A biomarker is something that can be measured to check normal functioning or the impact of a disease. Blood biomarkers are common in medicine to measure response to therapy such as measuring hemoglobin A1c levels for diabetic control and cholesterol levels for high cholesterol treatment. Injury to nerve cells (neurons) and other cells in the brain and spinal cord can be measured in the blood by checking levels of proteins such as neurofilament light chains (NfL) and glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP). One panel of these blood markers helps identify people with multiple sclerosis with current active MRI scans. The future of MS biomarkers involves blood tests to diagnose multiple sclerosis, select the best treatment for an individual, and measure treatment response. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Tanuja Chitnis MD, Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, is the Director of both MGB Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center and Translational Neuroimmunology Research Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She is also Co-Director of the Brigham Multiple Sclerosis Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Multiple Sclerosis Biomarkers including Blood Tests

Barry Singer, MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care at Missouri Baptist Medical Center, interviews global expert guests about the latest treatments, innovations and tips for people living with multiple sclerosis.

Our immune systems become less robust as we age. With an autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis, a weakened immune system can lead to less relapses and active MRI lesions. However, many people living with multiple sclerosis develop progressive disease with worsening physical and cognitive disability as they age. Strategies to live better with MS as one grows older are shared. The vast majority of treatments for multiple sclerosis have been studied in people 55 years of age or younger. However, 46% of people living with MS are older than age 55. New studies are answering important questions about MS treatment in older patients. At what age can treatment safely be stopped without risk of relapse or worsening disability? Safety concerns such as serious infections, cancer risk, and immunization responsiveness in older MS patients on immunosuppressive treatments are addressed. Barry Singer MD, director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Bianca Weinstock-Guttman MD, Professor of Neurology at the Jacobs School of Medicine &amp; Biomedical Sciences in Buffalo, New York, and the Director of the Jacobs MS Center for Treatment and Research. John Corboy MD, Professor of Neurology at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine and Co-Director of the Rocky Mountain MS Center.

Our immune systems become less robust as we age. With an autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis, a weakened immune system can lead to less relapses and active MRI lesions. However, many people living with multiple sclerosis develop progressive disease with worsening physical and cognitive disability as they age. Strategies to live better with MS as one grows older are shared. The vast majority of treatments for multiple sclerosis have been studied in people 55 years of age or younger. However, 46% of people living with MS are older than age 55. New studies are answering important questions about MS treatment in older patients. At what age can treatment safely be stopped without risk of relapse or worsening disability? Safety concerns such as serious infections, cancer risk, and immunization responsiveness in older MS patients on immunosuppressive treatments are addressed. Barry Singer MD, director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Bianca Weinstock-Guttman MD, Professor of Neurology at the Jacobs School of Medicine &amp; Biomedical Sciences in Buffalo, New York, and the Director of the Jacobs MS Center for Treatment and Research. John Corboy MD, Professor of Neurology at the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine and Co-Director of the Rocky Mountain MS Center.

Aging and Multiple Sclerosis

Trying to figure out the ideal diet for multiple sclerosis?  Two of the leading experts on diet and multiple sclerosis share our current understanding based on the latest research. Diets reviewed include intermittent fasting, Swank diet, Wahls protocol and Mediterranean diet.  The role of the gut organisms, called the microbiome, on immune health explained. In-depth information highlights how certain foods affect people living with multiple sclerosis. Specifically dairy, gluten, polyunsaturated fats, fruits, vegetables, salt, vitamins and supplements are covered.  Dr. Ellen Mowery and Dr. Ilana Katz Sand also discuss how they counsel their own MS patients on diet. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Ellen Mowry MD is a Professor of Neurology and Epidemiology at Johns Hopkins University.  Dr. Mowry also co-directs the Johns Hopkins MS Precision Medicine Center of Excellence. Her research focuses on environmental factors that influence the risk and prognosis of multiple sclerosis. Ilana Katz Sand MD is an Associate Professor of Neurology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and on staff at the Corinne Goldsmith Dickinson Center for MS in New York City. One of main areas of her research is the role of diet in MS.

Trying to figure out the ideal diet for multiple sclerosis?  Two of the leading experts on diet and multiple sclerosis share our current understanding based on the latest research. Diets reviewed include intermittent fasting, Swank diet, Wahls protocol and Mediterranean diet.  The role of the gut organisms, called the microbiome, on immune health explained. In-depth information highlights how certain foods affect people living with multiple sclerosis. Specifically dairy, gluten, polyunsaturated fats, fruits, vegetables, salt, vitamins and supplements are covered.  Dr. Ellen Mowery and Dr. Ilana Katz Sand also discuss how they counsel their own MS patients on diet. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Ellen Mowry MD is a Professor of Neurology and Epidemiology at Johns Hopkins University.  Dr. Mowry also co-directs the Johns Hopkins MS Precision Medicine Center of Excellence. Her research focuses on environmental factors that influence the risk and prognosis of multiple sclerosis. Ilana Katz Sand MD is an Associate Professor of Neurology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and on staff at the Corinne Goldsmith Dickinson Center for MS in New York City. One of main areas of her research is the role of diet in MS.

Diet & Multiple Sclerosis

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes multiple sclerosis based on a new monumental study in young adults serving on active duty in the US military. The study found that the risk of developing MS increased 32-fold after infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. EBV causes infectious mononucleosis, spreads through saliva and infects B immune cells.  Alberto Ascherio MD DrPH shares his group's recent findings, published in Science. Epstein-Barr virus treatments in clinical trials reviewed including vaccination studies with the goals of stopping disease progression and preventing MS from ever occurring. The impact of vitamin D, smoking, and obesity on the risk of developing multiple sclerosis is reviewed.  Howard Weiner MD details the genetic risk factors for developing multiple sclerosis such as human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and risks of passing the disease onto children. The role of gut organisms, known as the microbiome, in both potentially causing multiple sclerosis and protecting people with the disease is explored. Strategies for a multiple sclerosis cure are highlighted. Barry Singer MD, Director of the MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Howard Weiner MD is the Robert L. Kroc Professor of Neurology at the Harvard Medical School, where is has been on faculty since 1976. He is the Director and Founder of the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center as well as the Co-Director of the Center for Neurologic Diseases at the Brigham &amp; Women’s Hospital in Boston. He is also a film writer, director and author. Dr. Weiner is the author of “Curing MS.” His latest book is “The Brain Under Siege: Solving the Mystery of Brain Disease, and How Scientists are Following the Clues to a Cure.” Alberto Ascherio MD DrPH is Professor of Epidemiology &amp; Nutrition at the Harvard Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Ascherio obtained his medical degree at the University of Milan in 1978.  His research group focuses on identifying causes, risk factors and biomarkers of susceptibility and early diagnosis of multiple sclerosis including key research on Epstein-Barr virus and vitamin D. Visit www.mslivingwell.org for more information.

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes multiple sclerosis based on a new monumental study in young adults serving on active duty in the US military. The study found that the risk of developing MS increased 32-fold after infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. EBV causes infectious mononucleosis, spreads through saliva and infects B immune cells.  Alberto Ascherio MD DrPH shares his group's recent findings, published in Science. Epstein-Barr virus treatments in clinical trials reviewed including vaccination studies with the goals of stopping disease progression and preventing MS from ever occurring. The impact of vitamin D, smoking, and obesity on the risk of developing multiple sclerosis is reviewed.  Howard Weiner MD details the genetic risk factors for developing multiple sclerosis such as human leukocyte antigen (HLA) and risks of passing the disease onto children. The role of gut organisms, known as the microbiome, in both potentially causing multiple sclerosis and protecting people with the disease is explored. Strategies for a multiple sclerosis cure are highlighted. Barry Singer MD, Director of the MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Howard Weiner MD is the Robert L. Kroc Professor of Neurology at the Harvard Medical School, where is has been on faculty since 1976. He is the Director and Founder of the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center as well as the Co-Director of the Center for Neurologic Diseases at the Brigham &amp; Women’s Hospital in Boston. He is also a film writer, director and author. Dr. Weiner is the author of “Curing MS.” His latest book is “The Brain Under Siege: Solving the Mystery of Brain Disease, and How Scientists are Following the Clues to a Cure.” Alberto Ascherio MD DrPH is Professor of Epidemiology &amp; Nutrition at the Harvard Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Ascherio obtained his medical degree at the University of Milan in 1978.  His research group focuses on identifying causes, risk factors and biomarkers of susceptibility and early diagnosis of multiple sclerosis including key research on Epstein-Barr virus and vitamin D. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.mslivingwell.org</a> for more information.

Multiple Sclerosis: Cause & Cure

Interested in improving MS care? Participating in a clinical trial may have personal advantages and help others in the future. Trial design discussed including whether or not a placebo (no treatment) will be used. Criteria needed to enroll in a clinical study called inclusion and exclusion criteria explained. Key elements of clinical trials outlined including multiple safety measures and informed consent. Current clinical trials in multiple sclerosis are covered including using highly effective treatment early for someone living with multiple sclerosis. Current studies in progressive MS and remyelination shared. Compounds highlighted include BTK inhibitors, masitinib, ibudilast, simvastatin and gold nanocrystals.  Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Jiwon Oh MD PhD is the Director of the BARLO MS Centre at St. Micheal’s Hospital in Toronto. She is an Associate Professor of Neurology University of Toronto. Dr. Oh’s research focuses on developing advanced imaging techniques of the spinal cord and brain for use in clinical settings. She is the principal investigator on local and collaborative, multi-center MRI studies. Dr. Oh is the lead of the Canadian National Progression Cohort, which is focused on better understanding progression in MS. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto and medical school from Queen’s University. Dr. Oh completed her residency at the University of Toronto, PhD in Public Health at John Hopkins and neuroimmunology fellowship at John Hopkins. Robert Bermel MD is a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis at the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis at Cleveland Clinic. He received a medical degree with thesis honors from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Dr. Bermel completed his neurology residency training and served as Chief Resident at Cleveland Clinic. He was funded as a National MS Society postdoctoral fellow in clinical neuroimmunology and advanced imaging at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Bermel cares for patients, conducts imaging research, and an investigator in multiple clinical trials at the Mellen Center. His current research interests focus on the identification of advanced imaging methods to evaluate and improve recovery from inflammatory demyelinating disease. Visit www.mslivingwell.org for more information.

Interested in improving MS care? Participating in a clinical trial may have personal advantages and help others in the future. Trial design discussed including whether or not a placebo (no treatment) will be used. Criteria needed to enroll in a clinical study called inclusion and exclusion criteria explained. Key elements of clinical trials outlined including multiple safety measures and informed consent. Current clinical trials in multiple sclerosis are covered including using highly effective treatment early for someone living with multiple sclerosis. Current studies in progressive MS and remyelination shared. Compounds highlighted include BTK inhibitors, masitinib, ibudilast, simvastatin and gold nanocrystals. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Jiwon Oh MD PhD is the Director of the BARLO MS Centre at St. Micheal’s Hospital in Toronto. She is an Associate Professor of Neurology University of Toronto. Dr. Oh’s research focuses on developing advanced imaging techniques of the spinal cord and brain for use in clinical settings. She is the principal investigator on local and collaborative, multi-center MRI studies. Dr. Oh is the lead of the Canadian National Progression Cohort, which is focused on better understanding progression in MS. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto and medical school from Queen’s University. Dr. Oh completed her residency at the University of Toronto, PhD in Public Health at John Hopkins and neuroimmunology fellowship at John Hopkins. Robert Bermel MD is a neurologist specializing in multiple sclerosis at the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis at Cleveland Clinic. He received a medical degree with thesis honors from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Dr. Bermel completed his neurology residency training and served as Chief Resident at Cleveland Clinic. He was funded as a National MS Society postdoctoral fellow in clinical neuroimmunology and advanced imaging at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Bermel cares for patients, conducts imaging research, and an investigator in multiple clinical trials at the Mellen Center. His current research interests focus on the identification of advanced imaging methods to evaluate and improve recovery from inflammatory demyelinating disease. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.mslivingwell.org</a> for more information.

Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trials

Cutting-edge research is revolutionizing how multiple sclerosis is diagnosed and monitored. The central vein sign on MRI may soon be a key way of confirming if someone has multiple sclerosis versus other conditions such as migraine, vasculitis, neurosarcoidosis and blockage of small blood vessels (from age, smoking and hypertension). Early clues on MRI imaging are shared in people with evidence of MS prior to developing symptoms (called radiologically isolated syndrome or RIS). New imaging techniques in development visualize changes in progressive multiple sclerosis like slowly-expanding lesions and inflammatory cells called microglia. Dr. Daniel Reich from the NIH covers additional topics from routine MRI monitoring of the brain and spinal cord to remyelination imaging. With incredible medical advances, some people that were considered to have multiple sclerosis are now diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and MOG Antibody Disease (MOGAD). Dr. Sean Pittock from Mayo Clinic shares how NMO and MOGAD are different from multiple sclerosis and reviews the alternate approaches to treatment including the 3 FDA-approved treatments for NMO, Soliris (eculizumab), Uplinza (inebilizumab) and Enspyrng (satralizumab). Latest research in screening spinal fluid and blood for clues of multiple sclerosis discussed to improve diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Daniel Reich MD PhD is the Chief of the Translational Neuroradiology Section of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He obtained his undergraduate degree in math and physics at Yale, PhD in neuroscience at The Rockefeller University and MD degree at Cornell. Dr. Reich completed residencies in both neurology and diagnostic radiology and a neuroradiology fellowship at John Hopkins Hospital. Sean Pittock MD is a Professor of Neurology at Mayo Clinic. His is the Director of Mayo Clinic's Center for Multiple Sclerosis and Autoimmune Neurology and Director of Mayo's Neuroimmunology Research Laboratory. He earned his medical degree from University College Dublin, post-doctoral degree at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland followed by residency and fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Visit www.mslivingwell.org for more information. Share your MS story on https://ICanWithMS.org

Cutting-edge research is revolutionizing how multiple sclerosis is diagnosed and monitored. The central vein sign on MRI may soon be a key way of confirming if someone has multiple sclerosis versus other conditions such as migraine, vasculitis, neurosarcoidosis and blockage of small blood vessels (from age, smoking and hypertension). Early clues on MRI imaging are shared in people with evidence of MS prior to developing symptoms (called radiologically isolated syndrome or RIS). New imaging techniques in development visualize changes in progressive multiple sclerosis like slowly-expanding lesions and inflammatory cells called microglia. Dr. Daniel Reich from the NIH covers additional topics from routine MRI monitoring of the brain and spinal cord to remyelination imaging. With incredible medical advances, some people that were considered to have multiple sclerosis are now diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and MOG Antibody Disease (MOGAD). Dr. Sean Pittock from Mayo Clinic shares how NMO and MOGAD are different from multiple sclerosis and reviews the alternate approaches to treatment including the 3 FDA-approved treatments for NMO, Soliris (eculizumab), Uplinza (inebilizumab) and Enspyrng (satralizumab). Latest research in screening spinal fluid and blood for clues of multiple sclerosis discussed to improve diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Daniel Reich MD PhD is the Chief of the Translational Neuroradiology Section of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He obtained his undergraduate degree in math and physics at Yale, PhD in neuroscience at The Rockefeller University and MD degree at Cornell. Dr. Reich completed residencies in both neurology and diagnostic radiology and a neuroradiology fellowship at John Hopkins Hospital. Sean Pittock MD is a Professor of Neurology at Mayo Clinic. His is the Director of Mayo Clinic's Center for Multiple Sclerosis and Autoimmune Neurology and Director of Mayo's Neuroimmunology Research Laboratory. He earned his medical degree from University College Dublin, post-doctoral degree at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland followed by residency and fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.mslivingwell.org</a> for more information. Share your MS story on <a href="https://ICanWithMS.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://ICanWithMS.org</a>

Future Look: From Diagnosis to Tracking Multiple Sclerosis

Wellness is a proactive approach to living with multiple sclerosis. Wellness complements routine neurological care, which is often reactive to new relapses, symptoms and disease progression. Nutrition reviewed including diets such as intermittent fasting, paleo and Wahls Protocol. Great physical health relies on keeping up with routine cancer screenings and vaccinations. Options for protecting cognitive health and improving mental health are highlighted. Ways to improve social and spiritual connections are shared. Successful exercise strategies presented for an array of MS disability levels. Information given on how to balance the need for increased muscle strength with concerns of overexertion and fatigue. The role of physical, occupational and speech therapy for people with MS reviewed. The latest and future technology explored including zero-gravity treadmills, electronic foot braces, robotic exoskeletons and implantable microstimulators. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Riley Bove MD is an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the University of California-San Francisco. Her multiple sclerosis research focuses on hormones and digital medicine. Dr. Bove started her studies in anthropology at Harvard and then global studies on a Fulbright scholarship. She returned to Harvard for medical school and then completed her residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham Women’s hospital in Boston. She completed a clinical research fellowship at the Partners MS Center and a Master’s Degree through Harvard Medical School’s Clinical Investigator Training Program. Ben Thrower MD is the medical director of the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center, a leading rehabilitation hospital in Atlanta. He completed his medical degree at University of Florida and neurology residency at the University of Texas in San Antonio. Dr. Thrower is a Clinical Instructor of Neurology at Emory University and participates actively in clinical research. He serves on the board of directors of the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society and has served on the board for the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers. In 2005, he was the first physician inductee into the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society Volunteer Hall of Fame. Visit www.mslivingwell.org for more information. Share your MS story on https://ICanWithMS.org

Wellness is a proactive approach to living with multiple sclerosis. Wellness complements routine neurological care, which is often reactive to new relapses, symptoms and disease progression. Nutrition reviewed including diets such as intermittent fasting, paleo and Wahls Protocol. Great physical health relies on keeping up with routine cancer screenings and vaccinations. Options for protecting cognitive health and improving mental health are highlighted. Ways to improve social and spiritual connections are shared. Successful exercise strategies presented for an array of MS disability levels. Information given on how to balance the need for increased muscle strength with concerns of overexertion and fatigue. The role of physical, occupational and speech therapy for people with MS reviewed. The latest and future technology explored including zero-gravity treadmills, electronic foot braces, robotic exoskeletons and implantable microstimulators. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Riley Bove MD is an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the University of California-San Francisco. Her multiple sclerosis research focuses on hormones and digital medicine. Dr. Bove started her studies in anthropology at Harvard and then global studies on a Fulbright scholarship. She returned to Harvard for medical school and then completed her residency at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham Women’s hospital in Boston. She completed a clinical research fellowship at the Partners MS Center and a Master’s Degree through Harvard Medical School’s Clinical Investigator Training Program. Ben Thrower MD is the medical director of the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center, a leading rehabilitation hospital in Atlanta. He completed his medical degree at University of Florida and neurology residency at the University of Texas in San Antonio. Dr. Thrower is a Clinical Instructor of Neurology at Emory University and participates actively in clinical research. He serves on the board of directors of the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society and has served on the board for the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers. In 2005, he was the first physician inductee into the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society Volunteer Hall of Fame. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.mslivingwell.org</a> for more information. Share your MS story on <a href="https://ICanWithMS.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://ICanWithMS.org</a>

Wellness & Multiple Sclerosis

Struggling with anxiety or depression? Over half of people living with multiple sclerosis can experience depression and up to 40% have anxiety. Both psychological and physical symptoms that people with MS experience are explained. Causes for these mood disorders are discussed including immune inflammation in the brain, adaptation to having a chronic disease and medication side effects such as interferons and steroids. People with depression are at higher rate of developing multiple sclerosis. In addition, depression is associated with more disability for those living with MS which may be due to not taking medications properly, smoking, not exercising and even chemical brain changes. Therapy options explored including meditation (including mindfulness), stress reduction, cognitive behavioral therapy and virtual platforms. Prescription medication options for both anxiety and depression covered including benefits and risks including dependence. Experts share resources and hope for those living with MS with severe depression including suicidal thoughts. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Amy Sullivan PsyD, ABPP is a board-certified, staff clinical health psychologist and the Director of Behavioral Medicine at the Mellen Center for MS Treatment and Research at the Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Sullivan received her doctorate degree at Argosy University-Atlanta, her internship at the University of Cincinnati, and her fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic in Pain Medicine. She is also the principal investigator for several clinical trials at the Mellen Center, where her research interests are focused on MS, pain, exercise and behavioral medicine. Adam Kaplin MD PhD is the Chief Scientific Officer of MyMD Pharmaceuticals Inc. since December 2020. He completed his undergraduate degree from Yale University, graduating magna cum laude, and obtained both his MD and PhD degrees at Johns Hopkins. Dr. Kaplin complete his residency in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where he served as the chief resident of psychiatry. He served as an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at John Hopkins and the principal psychiatric consultant to the John Hopkins MS Center. He remains as adjunct faculty at John Hopkins. Visit www.mslivingwell.org for more information. Share your MS story on https://ICanWithMS.org

Struggling with anxiety or depression? Over half of people living with multiple sclerosis can experience depression and up to 40% have anxiety. Both psychological and physical symptoms that people with MS experience are explained. Causes for these mood disorders are discussed including immune inflammation in the brain, adaptation to having a chronic disease and medication side effects such as interferons and steroids. People with depression are at higher rate of developing multiple sclerosis. In addition, depression is associated with more disability for those living with MS which may be due to not taking medications properly, smoking, not exercising and even chemical brain changes. Therapy options explored including meditation (including mindfulness), stress reduction, cognitive behavioral therapy and virtual platforms. Prescription medication options for both anxiety and depression covered including benefits and risks including dependence. Experts share resources and hope for those living with MS with severe depression including suicidal thoughts. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Amy Sullivan PsyD, ABPP is a board-certified, staff clinical health psychologist and the Director of Behavioral Medicine at the Mellen Center for MS Treatment and Research at the Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Sullivan received her doctorate degree at Argosy University-Atlanta, her internship at the University of Cincinnati, and her fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic in Pain Medicine. She is also the principal investigator for several clinical trials at the Mellen Center, where her research interests are focused on MS, pain, exercise and behavioral medicine. Adam Kaplin MD PhD is the Chief Scientific Officer of MyMD Pharmaceuticals Inc. since December 2020. He completed his undergraduate degree from Yale University, graduating magna cum laude, and obtained both his MD and PhD degrees at Johns Hopkins. Dr. Kaplin complete his residency in psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where he served as the chief resident of psychiatry. He served as an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at John Hopkins and the principal psychiatric consultant to the John Hopkins MS Center. He remains as adjunct faculty at John Hopkins. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.mslivingwell.org</a> for more information. Share your MS story on <a href="https://ICanWithMS.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://ICanWithMS.org</a>

Anxiety, Depression & Multiple Sclerosis

Progressive multiple sclerosis can be a worrisome diagnosis, filled with questions about one's personal future including independence. In this podcast, Mark Webb shares his personal story of transition to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis with incredible resiliency, brilliant humor and tenacious optimism. He explains how MS has affected his career from Euro Disney to Head of Communications at Shift.ms, a global online MS community. He candidly describes the impact of the disease on his functioning including cognition, mobility and bladder and how he has adapted to these obstacles. Mark reflects on his acceptance of progressive MS and emphasizes his motivation to make a difference for himself, his family and the MS community. Dr. Gavin Giovannoni describes in the podcast primary progressive MS, secondary progressive MS and active secondary progressive MS and whether or not these are truly different conditions. He moves beyond labels and explains that people with progressive disease, even those with limited mobility, can still be at risk of relapses affecting vision and arms. Continuing, switching or stopping disease-modifying therapy in progressive multiple sclerosis patients are covered. The impact of early MS damage, aging and ongoing, smoldering inflammation on progressive disease is described. Progressive multiple sclerosis treatments in clinical trials are highlighted including masitinib, BTK inhibitors, ibudilast, simvastatin, biotin, lipoic acid and remyelination strategies. Mark Webb is Head of Communications for Shift.ms, an online community of over 38,000 people living with MS. Mark lives with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis and first developed MS symptoms back in 1992. He's a blog writer: onemanandhiscatheters.com, public speaker and rugby wheelchair player. Mark lives in the U.K. with wife and 2 sons. Gavin Giovannoni MBBCh, PhD, FCP, FRCP, FRCPath is the Chair of Neurology of the Blizard Institute of Cell and Molecular Science, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry at Queen Mary University of London. Professor Giovannoni completed his medical training and neurology training in South Africa. In addition, he completed a PhD in immunology from the University of London in 1998. He is particularly interested in clinical issues related to optimizing MS disease-modifying therapies including progressive disease. Visit www.mslivingwell.org for more information. Share your MS story on https://ICanWithMS.org

Progressive multiple sclerosis can be a worrisome diagnosis, filled with questions about one's personal future including independence. In this podcast, Mark Webb shares his personal story of transition to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis with incredible resiliency, brilliant humor and tenacious optimism. He explains how MS has affected his career from Euro Disney to Head of Communications at <a href="http://Shift.ms" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shift.ms</a>, a global online MS community. He candidly describes the impact of the disease on his functioning including cognition, mobility and bladder and how he has adapted to these obstacles. Mark reflects on his acceptance of progressive MS and emphasizes his motivation to make a difference for himself, his family and the MS community. Dr. Gavin Giovannoni describes in the podcast primary progressive MS, secondary progressive MS and active secondary progressive MS and whether or not these are truly different conditions. He moves beyond labels and explains that people with progressive disease, even those with limited mobility, can still be at risk of relapses affecting vision and arms. Continuing, switching or stopping disease-modifying therapy in progressive multiple sclerosis patients are covered. The impact of early MS damage, aging and ongoing, smoldering inflammation on progressive disease is described. Progressive multiple sclerosis treatments in clinical trials are highlighted including masitinib, BTK inhibitors, ibudilast, simvastatin, biotin, lipoic acid and remyelination strategies. Mark Webb is Head of Communications for <a href="http://Shift.ms" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shift.ms</a>, an online community of over 38,000 people living with MS. Mark lives with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis and first developed MS symptoms back in 1992. He's a blog writer: <a href="http://onemanandhiscatheters.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">onemanandhiscatheters.com</a>, public speaker and rugby wheelchair player. Mark lives in the U.K. with wife and 2 sons. Gavin Giovannoni MBBCh, PhD, FCP, FRCP, FRCPath is the Chair of Neurology of the Blizard Institute of Cell and Molecular Science, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry at Queen Mary University of London. Professor Giovannoni completed his medical training and neurology training in South Africa. In addition, he completed a PhD in immunology from the University of London in 1998. He is particularly interested in clinical issues related to optimizing MS disease-modifying therapies including progressive disease. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.mslivingwell.org</a> for more information. Share your MS story on <a href="https://ICanWithMS.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://ICanWithMS.org</a>

Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

People living with multiple sclerosis often experience chronic numbness, burning, tingling and pins-and-needles sensations. In a recent study, 70% of people with MS reported numbness and tingling, and 55% reported pain associated with relapses. MS neurologists explain typical symptoms for brain and spinal cord MS attacks compared to a pinched nerve in the back (like sciatica) or neuropathy. Lhermitte's sign (shocks down the spine when moving neck) and Uhthoff's phenomenon (numbness when overheated) are covered since frequently the first symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Options for relief from burning, tingling and pins-and-needles reviewed including medications such as Neurontin (gabapentin), Lyrica (pregabalin), Elavil (amitriptyline) and Cymbalta (duloxetine). Painful MS syndromes including trigeminal neuralgia, MS hug, and flexor and extensor spasms are reviewed with numerous treatment options. MS experts also share options to alleviate painful muscle cramps and spasms as well as musculoskeletal pain, such as low back pain. The podcast aims to provide awareness and options for relief so that people living with MS can better communicate with their doctors to improve their care.  Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Mitzi Joi Williams MD, a MS neurologist and the founder and CEO of  Joi Life Wellness Group Multiple Sclerosis Center. Dr. Williams completed her neurology residency (including serving as chief resident) and multiple sclerosis fellowship at Georgia Health Sciences University (formerly MCG) in Augusta, GA. She is the author of MS Made Simple: The Essential Guide to Understanding Your Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis. Brandon Beaber MD, an MS neurologist at Kaiser Permanente in Los Angeles. He completed his neurology residency at Kaiser Permanente’s Los Angeles Medical Center (LAMC) and fellowship in multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology at University of Southern California. He authored Resilience in the Face of Multiple Sclerosis and regularly posts educational videos for people living with MS on his YouTube channel. Visit mslivingwell.org for more information.

People living with multiple sclerosis often experience chronic numbness, burning, tingling and pins-and-needles sensations. In a recent study, 70% of people with MS reported numbness and tingling, and 55% reported pain associated with relapses. MS neurologists explain typical symptoms for brain and spinal cord MS attacks compared to a pinched nerve in the back (like sciatica) or neuropathy. Lhermitte's sign (shocks down the spine when moving neck) and Uhthoff's phenomenon (numbness when overheated) are covered since frequently the first symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Options for relief from burning, tingling and pins-and-needles reviewed including medications such as Neurontin (gabapentin), Lyrica (pregabalin), Elavil (amitriptyline) and Cymbalta (duloxetine). Painful MS syndromes including trigeminal neuralgia, MS hug, and flexor and extensor spasms are reviewed with numerous treatment options. MS experts also share options to alleviate painful muscle cramps and spasms as well as musculoskeletal pain, such as low back pain. The podcast aims to provide awareness and options for relief so that people living with MS can better communicate with their doctors to improve their care. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Mitzi Joi Williams MD, a MS neurologist and the founder and CEO of  Joi Life Wellness Group Multiple Sclerosis Center. Dr. Williams completed her neurology residency (including serving as chief resident) and multiple sclerosis fellowship at Georgia Health Sciences University (formerly MCG) in Augusta, GA. She is the author of MS Made Simple: The Essential Guide to Understanding Your Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis. Brandon Beaber MD, an MS neurologist at Kaiser Permanente in Los Angeles. He completed his neurology residency at Kaiser Permanente’s Los Angeles Medical Center (LAMC) and fellowship in multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology at University of Southern California. He authored Resilience in the Face of Multiple Sclerosis and regularly posts educational videos for people living with MS on his YouTube channel. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">mslivingwell.org</a> for more information.

Multiple Sclerosis Numbness & Pain: Relief Options

At this recording, the COVID-19 pandemic is raging with nearly 100 million people affected and over 2.1 million dead.  Recently available COVID-19 vaccines are providing some much needed hope. Vaccinations have been extremely effective in saving people from fatal diseases but many people living with multiple sclerosis have questions about whether COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective for them. This episode explains the two major COVID-19 vaccines types — mRNA and adenovirus — and what people with should know about them.  This episode also covers different types of vaccines people with multiple sclerosis should avoid and which vaccines are safe. Experts tackle questions like whether vaccines can trigger MS relapses and review specific vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), chicken pox (varicella), hepatitis B and influenza (flu). Multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can suppress the immune system and potentially impact whether a vaccine will be protective or not. Existing info on each MS medication type is discussed. Timing of vaccinations and medication dosing strategies covered. Vaccines as a strategy to prevent or treat multiple sclerosis are explored. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Anne Cross MD is Professor of Neurology at Washington University in St. Louis and Dr. John Trotter MS Chair in Neuroimmunology. Her leading work in B cells in multiple sclerosis was recently recognized with the 2019 John Dystel Prize for MS Research. Amit Bar-Or MD, FRCP is Professor of Neurology at University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. He serves as Director of the Center for Neuroinflammation and Neurotherapeutics, and Chief of the Division of Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders. He runs a cellular and molecular neuroimmunology lab focused on injury and repair of the human central nervous system. Visit mslivingwell.org for more information.

At this recording, the COVID-19 pandemic is raging with nearly 100 million people affected and over 2.1 million dead.  Recently available COVID-19 vaccines are providing some much needed hope. Vaccinations have been extremely effective in saving people from fatal diseases but many people living with multiple sclerosis have questions about whether COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective for them. This episode explains the two major COVID-19 vaccines types — mRNA and adenovirus — and what people with should know about them.  This episode also covers different types of vaccines people with multiple sclerosis should avoid and which vaccines are safe. Experts tackle questions like whether vaccines can trigger MS relapses and review specific vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), chicken pox (varicella), hepatitis B and influenza (flu). Multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can suppress the immune system and potentially impact whether a vaccine will be protective or not. Existing info on each MS medication type is discussed. Timing of vaccinations and medication dosing strategies covered. Vaccines as a strategy to prevent or treat multiple sclerosis are explored. Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews: Anne Cross MD is Professor of Neurology at Washington University in St. Louis and Dr. John Trotter MS Chair in Neuroimmunology. Her leading work in B cells in multiple sclerosis was recently recognized with the 2019 John Dystel Prize for MS Research. Amit Bar-Or MD, FRCP is Professor of Neurology at University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. He serves as Director of the Center for Neuroinflammation and Neurotherapeutics, and Chief of the Division of Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders. He runs a cellular and molecular neuroimmunology lab focused on injury and repair of the human central nervous system. Visit <a href="http://www.mslivingwell.org" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">mslivingwell.org</a> for more information.

Multiple Sclerosis & Vaccines including COVID-19

Great podcast that is very informative and easy to understand!

Dr Barry

good to hear others are positive. 
helpful. 
Resourceful

very relatable

MS Living Well: Key Info from Multiple Sclerosis Experts

The best podcast episodes about true crime. For any thrill seeking podcast listeners who just can't get enough of the captivating stories of murderers and criminals. This topic has all the best episodes from many different true crime podcasts.  Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best True Crime Podcasts

The best podcast episodes on global issues affecting everyone. Covering topics such as the #metoo movement, climate change, the impact of technology and some of the biggest global issues facing us right now. For anyone interested in learning more about the world, and some of the issues we're facing, pick an episode below and start listening! Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!