Multiple Sclerosis Part 3

Diagnosis
If your symptoms are similar to Multiple sclerosis you need to see a doctor immediately. A detailed analysis is done of your symptoms, past record and medical history with current heath conditions is done by the doctor. You can be referred to a neurologist who will narrow down the symptoms similar to MS. Diagnosing will not be easy as not a single lab can diagnose it positively.
Diagnostic tests
To confirm MS, the following test needs to carried out:
Neurological examination: To check whether or not your nerve pathways are damaged, The neurologist will look for changes in reflexes, speech, hand & leg co-ordination weakness or changes in your eye movements. 

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
MRI scan are used to diagnose MS in about 90% cases. This shows scarring or damage of myelin in central nervous system. This procedure is painless and takes about 30-10 minutes.
Evoked potentials
This test is done to check whether your brains takes long time to send & receive messages. Small electrodes are placed on head, which monitors the brain waves in response to hearing and seeing.
Lumbar puncture
In this test a sample of your cerebrospinal fluid is taken using a needle insertion in the area near the spinal cord. Local anesthesia will be given to the area. Sample is tested for antibodies, the presence of which indicates that immune system is fighting a disease in your central nervous system. This test is needed if any previous test proved to be inconclusive.
Diagnosing the different types of multiple sclerosis
Once the diagnosis of MS is completed, The type of MS can be determined by the neurologist. It takes long time to get clear as symptoms are often unpredictable and vary. Benign MS(BMS) can be diagnosed if you are symptom free for 10 -15 years.
Diagnostic criteria differ for other type of MS. The same are outlined below:
Relapsing multiple sclerosis (RRMS) diagnosis can be done if:
A diagnosis of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) may be made if:
you have one relapse, and an MRI scan shows new myelin damage or scarring three months later or
you have two relapses of your symptoms, more than 30 days apart
A diagnosis for Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) can be if:
you have become steadily more disabled for at least six months, with or without relapses or
you have had relapses of your symptoms in the past
A diagnosis for primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) can be done if there are no symptoms of relapses:
an MRI scan shows damage and scarring to myelin,
your have become steadily more disabled for at least one year, or
a lumbar puncture shows that there are antibodies in the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord.
Uncertain diagnosis
There can be a chance when the neurologist may not be in a position to determine whether you have or not you have MS. This happens when test results are unclear, damage in the MRI scan. In such case you will have to wait for the symptoms to relapse again.
After diagnosis
People with MS condition need support from family and friends. Counseling sessions can be provided to individuals once MS is diagnosed.