March is MS Education and Awareness month. Join Gia M. LaRuffa, local neuropsychologist, as she talks about the cognitive and emotional consequences of Multiple Sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a nervous system disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It damages the myelin sheath, the material that surrounds and protects nerve cells. This damage slows down or blocks messages between the brain and body, leading to the symptoms of MS. They can include: Visual disturbances, muscle weakness, trouble with coordination and balance, sensations such as numbness, prickling, or “pins and needles,” and thinking and memory problems.

No one knows what causes MS. It may be an autoimmune disease, which happens when the body attacks itself. Multiple sclerosis affects women more than men. It often begins between the ages of 20 and 40. Usually, the disease is mild, but some people lose the ability to write, speak, or walk. There is no cure for MS, but medicines may slow it down and help control symptoms. Physical and occupational therapy may also help. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)

Gia M. LaRuffa, PhD, is a local neuropsychologist in private practice, specializing in identifying cognitive impairment and functioning. She’ll provide information on the possible cognitive and emotional effects of MS, and recommend ways to deal with the disease.