Multiple Sclerosis
& Neuroimmunological Disorders
Wellstar neuroimmunologists specialize in diagnosing and helping you manage conditions such as multiple sclerosis, demyelinating diseases and neuroimmunological disorders so you can live a long, satisfying life.
Expert Care for Neuroimmunological Conditions
When someone has a neuroimmunological disorder like multiple sclerosis (MS), the immune system attacks the central nervous system—the brain, spine or optic nerve. These conditions lead to inflammation, which may cause vision and mobility problems, muscle weakness, numbness, tingling and fatigue. Wellstar’s mission is to help people living with these conditions to achieve a better quality of life by stopping disease progression and optimizing symptom control. Wellstar is accredited as a Center for Comprehensive MS Care by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at:
- Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center
- Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center
- Wellstar North Fulton Medical Center
- Wellstar Paulding Medical Center
Neuroimmunologists at Wellstar lead a multidisciplinary team to provide patient- and family-centered care. Our specialized neurologists have additional training and expertise on how the nervous system and immune system relate to each other. Staying current on the latest research, Wellstar neuroimmunologists offer a full range of treatment options and a personalized care plan for each patient.
The Wellstar campus in Augusta, affiliated with Medical College of Georgia, is home to the Augusta Multiple Sclerosis Center. We’re often involved in exploring new treatment options for people with MS through clinical research and training neurologists of the future.
Getting diagnosed
Your neuroimmunologist will begin the diagnostic process with a thorough examination and review of your medical history. Most tests are done in a lab or your neurologist’s office and do not require an inpatient stay in the hospital. Testing may include:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Evoked potential tests
- Lumbar puncture/cerebrospinal fluid analysis
- Blood tests
Results from these tests will help give your neuroimmunologist more information to diagnose your condition and create a customized treatment plan so you can have a better quality of life.
Conditions we diagnose
- Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)
- Acute encephalitis
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD)
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD)
- Neurosarcoidosis
- Optic neuritis (ON)
- Transverse myelitis
- Other rare neurological autoimmune diseases
Treatments we offer
No two people experience neuroimmunological conditions like MS the same way and symptoms vary considerably. That’s why it’s important to work with a neuroimmunologist who personalizes your care plan for your individual needs. Treatments we offer include:
- Immunosuppression with medication
- Botox for spasticity
- Occupational therapy
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Clinical trials for emerging MS drugs and treatments
Ask your Wellstar neurologist if you qualify for any current clinical trials. These let patients participate in the latest research and take advantage of emerging drugs and treatments.
Your care team & specialized care referrals
Your care team will include doctors, nurses and experts in areas like emotional and cognitive changes, personal relationships, mobility challenges and getting the assistance you need to live as symptom-free as possible. When needed, we’ll refer to specialized care, including:
- Neuro-ophthalmology
- Urology or urogynecology
- Neuropsychology
- Rheumatology
