Multiple sclerosis, more commonly known as MS, is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recently confirmed that nearly one million people in the United States are living with MS, which is more than double what was originally thought.
While there is currently no known cure for MS, there are multiple treatment options that can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. One such option is infusion therapy.
At Smart Infusion, we're proud to offer this promising treatment for patients living with MS. Join us as we explore how infusion therapy can help those with MS live a better quality of life.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a complex neurological disorder that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin. This results in inflammation and damage to the nerves, leading to a wide range of symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulty with vision, balance and coordination, and cognitive impairment.
The exact cause of MS is still unknown, but researchers believe it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While anyone can develop MS, it is more common in women and typically diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50.
In most cases, MS begins as a relapsing-remitting disease where symptoms come and go. Over time, typically within 10 to 20 years from disease onset, the disease can develop into secondary progressive MS, which is characterized by a steady progression of symptoms with fewer or no periods of remission.
The precise symptoms of MS vary greatly among patients but often include problems with vision, fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems with coordination and balance. These symptoms are a result of the immune system mistakenly attacking the protective covering of nerve fibers (myelin) in the central nervous system.
What is Infusion Therapy?
Infusion therapy is a medical treatment that involves delivering medication directly into the bloodstream. Also known as intravenous therapy, it is often resorted to when oral medication is not an option or to treat serious or chronic diseases. But what exactly can infusion therapy treat?
Though it can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, infusion therapy is particularly effective for diseases that involve the immune system, such as inflammatory bowel disease and neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis. This is because infusion therapy can be used to administer potent medications that can rapidly reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, thereby slowing down the progression of autoimmune disorders.
It is a preferred treatment option for a variety of autoimmune diseases, owing to its targeted, fast-acting nature and ability to deliver higher concentrations of medication. It's important to note, however, that while infusion therapy can help manage symptoms, it is not a cure for autoimmune diseases.
At Smart Infusion, our team of skilled medical professionals specializes in administering infusion therapy to treat a number of diseases and disorders, providing patients with personalized care that helps to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Our commitment to patient care and cutting-edge medical treatment has made us a trusted provider of infusion therapy services.
How Infusion Therapy Can Help with MS
The most common kind of treatments for MS are called 'Disease-Modifying Therapies,' or DMTs. These medications are designed to reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms, as well as slow the progression of the disease.
Infusion therapy can be used to administer several types of DMTs for MS directly to the bloodstream, thereby bypassing the digestive system and allowing for improved absorption. This method is particularly useful for patients who do not respond well to oral medication or injections, or for those who struggle with medication adherence due to side effects or the complexity of dosing schedules.
Second, infusion therapy can potentially offer quicker relief of symptoms as the medication begins to work immediately upon delivery. Finally, the procedure is performed under the supervision of medical professionals, ensuring that any potential adverse reactions are promptly addressed. At Smart Infusion, we utilize these medications to treat MS:
- Ocrevus: Ocrevus is a humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that specifically targets CD20 markers on B lymphocytes. This helps to slow the progression of MS by reducing inflammation and damage to nerve fibers.
- Tysabri: This medication is approved for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS, and works by preventing immune cells from entering the brain and spinal cord.
- Lemtrada: Lemtrada is used to treat relapsing remitting MS. It is a monoclonal antibody that targets a protein called CD52, which is found on the surface of mature lymphocytes. This treatment helps to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to nerve fibers.
It's important to reiterate that while infusion therapy aids in symptom management and prevents the disease from progressing, it is not a cure for MS. Nevertheless, with their potent effect in delaying disease progression, these disease-modifying therapies have truly revolutionized the way multiple sclerosis is diagnosed and treated. By opting for infusion therapy, patients with MS can hope for a significant improvement in their quality of life.
Schedule Your Infusion Therapy at Smart Infusion
At Smart Infusion, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized medical care with a full range of infusion therapy services. Our specialized approach to MS treatment involves the use of cutting-edge infusion therapy, administered in a comfortable and safe environment by a team of experienced professionals.
With comfortable seating, WiFi, Hulu, and snacks and beverages, our infusion centers are designed to ensure that patients can relax during their appointments. Our facilities also boast a 3:1 nurse-to-patient ratio, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and care they need. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with MS and are exploring treatment options, consider Smart Infusion. With infusion centers in Eau Claire, Wausau, and Madison, we’re here to provide solutions that can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Are you ready to find out what infusion therapy can do for you? Schedule with Smart Infusion Therapy Services today and fill out our simple patient registration form to get started on your journey to better health. We look forward to seeing you!
Schedule Your Infusion Therapy at Smart Infusion
At Smart Infusion, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized medical care with a full range of infusion therapy services. Our specialized approach to MS treatment involves the use of cutting-edge infusion therapy, administered in a comfortable and safe environment by a team of experienced professionals.
With comfortable seating, WiFi, Hulu, and snacks and beverages, our infusion centers are designed to ensure that patients can relax during their appointments. Our facilities also boast a 3:1 nurse-to-patient ratio, ensuring that each patient receives the attention and care they need. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with MS and are exploring treatment options, consider Smart Infusion. With infusion centers in Eau Claire, Wausau, and Madison, we’re here to provide solutions that can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Are you ready to find out what infusion therapy can do for you? Schedule with Smart Infusion Therapy Services today and fill out our simple patient registration form to get started on your journey to better health. We look forward to seeing you!
