Multiple Sclerosis

Overview

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. Damage disrupts the electrical signals that control movement, sensation and thinking, leading to flare‑ups (relapses) and, in some cases, gradual progression.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you can access swift consultant‑led diagnosis, on‑site MRI scanning, modern disease‑modifying therapies and an outpatient rehabilitation programme designed to keep you active and independent.

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Why Early Diagnosis Matters

• Starts disease‑modifying treatment (DMT) sooner, slowing disability
• Enables lifestyle changes that protect brain volume and cognition
• Provides clear information for work, family and driving decisions
• Cuts steroid delays during future relapses
• Connects you to physiotherapy and fatigue‑management resources before habits decline

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Typical Symptoms

• Blurred or double vision, eye pain or colour‑washout (optic neuritis)
• Pins and needles, numbness or electric‑shock sensations
• Weakness, heavy limbs or foot drop when walking
•  Poor balance, dizziness or vertigo
• Bladder urgency, frequency or hesitancy
• Extreme fatigue that sleep does not fix
• Memory lapses, slowed thinking or word‑finding problems
• Mood swings, anxiety or low mood when coping with uncertainty

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Common Triggers And Risk Factors

• Female sex and age between 20 and 40 at first symptoms
• Family history of MS or other autoimmune conditions
• Northern European ancestry, limited sunlight exposure
• Smoking and adolescent obesity
• Previous infection with Epstein–Barr virus (glandular fever)
• Low vitamin D status

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When To Seek Medical Advice

Phone 01295 252 281 for an urgent neurology appointment if you experience:

• New numbness, weakness or vision loss lasting more than 24 hours
• Worsening balance or bladder problems over days to weeks
• Unexplained fatigue and cognitive fog impacting work or study

Severe sudden vision loss or inability to walk should still be assessed in A&E.

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How We Diagnose And Monitor MS

1  Consultant Neurology Assessment – detailed history, neurological examination and symptom timeline in our Neurology Service.
2  On‑Site 3 T MRI Brain And Spine – high‑resolution scans in the Imaging Centre reveal characteristic plaques and active inflammation.
3  Laboratory Tests – blood work to exclude mimics such as B₁₂ deficiency or thyroid disease; optional vitamin D and antibody panels.
4  Lumbar Puncture (if needed) – organised as a day case to check for oligoclonal bands in cerebrospinal fluid.
5  Multidisciplinary Case Review – neurologist, radiologist, physiotherapist and neuropsychologist agree a personalised plan.
6  Annual Or Biannual MRI – tracks disease activity and helps fine‑tune therapy.

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Treatment And Continuing Support

• High‑Dose Steroids – short oral or IV courses for acute relapses.
• Disease‑Modifying Therapies – injectable, oral or infusion drugs such as interferons, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, fingolimod or monoclonal antibodies (e.g., ocrelizumab). Infusions take place in our comfortable day‑case suite.
• Symptom‑Control Medication – agents for spasticity, neuropathic pain, bladder urgency, tremor or mood.
• Physiotherapy – strength, balance, gait re‑education and hydrotherapy within our outpatient gym.
• Occupational Therapy – energy‑conservation techniques, work‑station adjustments and driving assessments.
• Speech And Language Therapy – support for speech clarity or swallowing if brain‑stem lesions occur.
• Neuropsychology – memory strategies, cognitive‑behavioural therapy and fatigue pacing.
• Dietetic Advice – Mediterranean‑style eating, vitamin D optimisation and weight management.
• Lifestyle Coaching – smoking cessation, graded exercise plans and stress‑reduction workshops.

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Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

• Neurology appointments usually available within one week
• State‑of‑the‑art 3 T MRI on site for diagnosis and monitoring
• Same‑day steroid prescriptions and rapid DMT initiation pathways
• Dedicated outpatient neuro‑rehab gym, therapy kitchen and quiet rooms
• Continuity with a small, friendly MS team—no crowded clinics or long waits
• Free parking, tranquil surroundings and easy access from Oxford, Warwick and Northampton

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can MS Be Cured?
There is no cure yet, but modern DMTs significantly reduce relapse rates and slow disability.

Will I Need A Wheelchair?
Most people with relapsing MS remain mobile for decades, especially when treatment starts early and exercise is regular.

Is Pregnancy Safe?
Many women have healthy pregnancies; some DMTs must be paused. Our neurologists coordinate with obstetric teams for timing and safe medication switches.

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Take Charge Of Your MS Journey

Call 01295 252 281 or Enquire online to arrange your Multiple Sclerosis assessment and personalised treatment plan.