Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis is when the immune system attacks the myelin sheath which covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body. Multiple sclerosis (MS) can lead to deterioration of the nerves. Symptoms vary greatly between each individual.
Symptoms include:

• Mobility and balance loss
• numbness/weakness of the limbs
• Speech and swallowing problems
• Cognitive problems
• Loss of vision
• Vertigo
• Problems with bowel/bladder function
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Respiratory function problems

Unfortunately, there is no cure for multiple sclerosis. However, there are many great and beneficial resources out there! Depending on the individual case, speech therapy can be of great use. The goal of speech therapy for someone with MS would be to improve the quality of life and to treat communication deficits in areas for improving chewing/swallowing, slurred speech, cognition, oral motor, and voice.

Resources:
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, December 24). Multiple sclerosis. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350269

Hickman, D. (2023, October 19). The Ultimate Guide to Multiple Sclerosis and speech therapy. Better Speech. https://www.betterspeech.com/post/multiple-sclerosis-and-speech-therapy#viewer-352l4