Multiple Sclerosis

    Overview

    Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a chronic disorder affecting the nervous and immune system.

    When someone has MS, their immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues within their central nervous system. Specifically, MS causes inflammation and damage to tissues called the myelin sheaths, which surrounds nerve fibers and acts as insulation to help signals and information move about the brain and spinal cord.

    MS can impact multiple parts of the central nervous system, so signs and symptoms vary widely. Common symptoms include:

    • Blurry vision
    • Numbness and tingling
    • Weakness
    • Muscle spasms and Chronic pain
    • Fatigue
    • Gastrointestinal problems, including bladder issues
    • Balance and walking difficulties 
    • Cognitive issues, including memory loss and depression 

    Our providers

    Profiles

    Ahmed Abbas, MD

    Clinical Neuroimmunologist Neurology
    751 N. Rutledge St. Suite 3100 Springfield, IL 62702
    Profiles

    Hossam AbdelSalam, MD

    Pediatric Neurologist Pediatrics
    400 N. 9th Street Springfield, IL 62702
    Profiles

    Dale Korinek, Psy.D, ABPP

    Clinical Neuropsychologist Psychiatry
    319 E Madison St 3rd Floor Springfield, IL 62702
    Profiles

    Jeremy Kulacz, MD

    Neurologist Neurology
    751 N. Rutledge St. Suite 3100 Springfield, IL 62702

    Why SIU

    Continually learning

    With a focus on continual improvement, our doctors take the time to research, study and innovate to provide the latest treatments for our patients.

    Patient-first experience

    Our care ranges from primary care physicians to specialists and sub-specialists who have advanced training. We're here for you when you need us.

    Breakthrough tech

    Continually teaching the next generation of doctors, our physicians use the latest developments in procedures and technologies for our patients.

    Latest articles

    Rich and Violet

    From independent to immobile in weeks: One man's battle with multiple sclerosis

    When Rich Payne felt an electric shock down his back and legs after placing paper on a coworker’s desk, he tried to write it off – he must have pulled something and didn’t realize it.