Multiple sclerosis service

The regional multiple sclerosis (MS) service is run by doctors and nurses specialising in MS and in helping you to manage your condition. Most patients will be referred to us through the general neurology service once a diagnosis of MS has already been made.

At the moment, there is no cure for MS, but there are a range of treatments available to help control your symptoms, maintain your quality of life and, depending on the exact type of your MS, there is an increasing number of specific disease modifying therapies which can slow down the progression of the disease and reduce the chance of attacks. The treatments available will depend on your individual symptoms and stage of the condition. Your neurologist will discuss with you the options available to help meet your individual needs.

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a long-term condition affecting the nervous system. The diagnosis is complex because there is no single definitive test that can make a positive diagnosis and symptoms are similar to those experienced with other nervous system conditions. However, a combination of clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings can allow a specialist to make the diagnosis with confidence.

Clinical expertise

We see people with MS at all stages of the disease. You will be reviewed regularly in the outpatient department and can be seen at short notice if your condition changes quickly. We also have regular nurse-led telephone clinics. Our team aim to reduce the impact of MS by providing support and information on identifying and treating symptoms. We make this available to all people with MS, and their family and carers.

Our team of Multiple Sclerosis specialist nurses provide support and advice to help you and your family to manage your symptoms and administer your own medication. This is so that you can carry on with normal daily life. You can access support individually or through organised group courses. There are also special clinics where you can discuss any concerns you may have.

Specialist advice and support

Our specialist nurses can arrange for you to be referred to specialist rehabilitation services. They can help with equipment or care, if you find it increasingly difficult to manage on your own. We work in close partnership with the continence service, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and psychologists and aim to provide a seamless and holistic service. Alongside this, we also have close links with community based voluntary groups to provide information and support specific to your local area.

Our large clinical trials unit means that our patients can often be offered the opportunity to participate in research.