Explore Multiple SclerosisMultiple Sclerosis
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that causes breakdown of the protective covering of nerves. MS can cause numbness, weakness, trouble walking, vision changes, and other symptoms.
Symptoms depend on the person, the location of damage in the nervous system, and how bad the damage is to the nerve fibers. Some people lose the ability to walk on their own or move at all. Others may have long periods between attacks without new symptoms, called remission. There’s no cure for MS. However, there are treatments to help speed the recovery from attacks, modify the course of the disease, and manage symptoms.
Compassionate Care as Unique as You Are
The UConn Health Multiple Sclerosis Center is here to provide our patients the most personalized and comprehensive neurological care. Our highly experienced team has dedicated professionals across 10 disciplines, including board-certified neurologists, MS-certified nurses, neuroimmunology infusion services, and clinical research.
We provide consultations for MS and neuroimmunology and second opinions initiated by patients and their families. We also partner with every relevant medical department to provide whole-patient care and collaborate with laboratories performing basic and clinical research focused on finding a cure for MS, including aggressive and progressive forms
All of this care and service is available to you at one convenient location at UConn Health’s Farmington offices in the heart of Connecticut.
Center for Comprehensive MS Care
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has recognized UConn Health as a Center for Comprehensive MS Care and a Partner in MS Care. The honor acknowledges our commitment to high-quality care and wealth of knowledge, experience, and attention to detail in treating people living with MS. In addition, our MS Center is a nationally recognized member of The Consortium of MS Centers.
Onboarding Process
The UConn Health MS Center offers patients a unique onboarding process facilitated by UConn Health providers who specialize in MS and know how to tailor their treatment for the best results. From keeping track of follow-up visits to reviewing lab tests and medications, a team is always closely working with patients to make sure they have what they need and are never alone.
Clinical Program Coordinator
Karen Altomari-Nelson, RN, MSN, MSCN
Clinical Program Coordinator, MS Center
From Unheard to Understood: MS Patient Sees Bright Future
For 20 years, Catherine Doerfler experienced concerning symptoms but went undiagnosed until she came to UConn Health and was told she had multiple sclerosis. Now Catherine is benefitting from a unique onboarding process facilitated by providers who specialize in MS and know how to tailor her treatment for best results.
MS Center Resources & Support
Our Connecticut communities depend on us as a leading provider of education and health resources in the state. Our MS support group, patient education symposium, video library, and other resources keep patients, families, and caregivers updated about important information for disease management and new advances in the fight against MS.
Second Opinions
Sometimes, patients and their families may need additional information and reassurance regarding their diagnosis. Getting the correct diagnosis of MS can be challenging. We see many patients referred by their primary neurologist for an expert opinion.
For a second opinion, call 860-679-4888.