Partnering with a Neurologist for Your Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects the nerve fibers in your spinal cord and brain, so consulting with a neurologist is critical to your care. Neurologists specialize in diseases of the nervous system, so they're best qualified to diagnose and treat multiple sclerosis (MS). Here are some tips for choosing and working with a neurologist:

• Call the National MS Society (800-FIGHT-MS or 800-344-4867) for a list of MS specialists in your area.

• For each visit to the neurologist, do the following:

  Be prepared to describe and prioritize problems and symptoms.

  Bring a list of questions.

  To catch everything the doc says, bring your partner or a friend or a tape recorder.

• Make sure your doctor has an up-to-date list of all the medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and supplements you're taking.

• If you don't understand something, ask (the goal is to know more rather than less when you leave the doctor's office).

• If you need a long consultation (to discuss family planning decisions, employment decisions, sexual dysfunction, and so on), schedule a separate appointment or phone call.

• Don't wait for a crisis — see your MS doctor on a regular basis.

• If you feel you need or want a second opinion, don't hesitate to get one.