Multiple Sclerosis

24 July 2025

Overview

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the myelin coating around nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This disrupts signal flow, leading to symptoms such as vision loss, numbness, weakness, imbalance and overwhelming fatigue. MS often follows a relapsing–remitting pattern, though some people experience gradual progression over time.

At The New Foscote Hospital, Banbury you’ll receive consultant‑led assessment, on‑site MRI scanning, modern disease‑modifying therapies (DMTs) and a tailored outpatient rehabilitation programme to keep you active and independent.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Enables prompt DMT initiation, which can reduce relapses and slow disability
Helps you plan work, driving and family life with accurate information
Identifies reversible contributors (vitamin D deficiency, smoking) that fuel inflammation
Provides early access to physiotherapy and fatigue‑management strategies before habits decline

Symptoms You Might Notice

Blurred or double vision, eye pain or washed‑out colours (optic neuritis)
Numbness, pins and needles or “electric shock” sensations (Lhermitte’s sign)
Limb weakness, foot drop or heavy legs when walking
Poor balance, dizziness or vertigo
Bladder urgency, hesitancy or constipation
Extreme fatigue not relieved by rest
Memory lapses, slowed thinking or word‑finding problems
Mood swings, anxiety or low mood when coping with uncertainty

Common Triggers And Risk Factors

Female sex and age 20–40 at first symptoms
Family history of MS or other autoimmune disease
Northern European ancestry and low sunlight exposure
Smoking and previous Epstein–Barr virus infection
Low vitamin D levels and adolescent obesity

When To Seek Medical Advice

Call 01295 252 281 if you experience:

New numbness, weakness or vision loss lasting more than 24 hours
Worsening balance, bladder issues or unexplained fatigue over days to weeks
A relapse while on treatment, or troublesome side effects from your current therapy

Severe sudden vision loss or inability to walk warrants urgent assessment via A&E.

How We Diagnose And Monitor MS

Consultant Neurology Assessment – detailed history, neurological examination and symptom timeline in our Neurology Service (/departments/neurology/).
On‑Site MRI Brain And Spine – high‑resolution imaging in the Imaging Centre (/departments/imaging/) to identify characteristic plaques and active inflammation.
Laboratory Tests – blood work to exclude mimics (B₁₂ deficiency, thyroid disease) and to check vitamin D and infection markers.
Lumbar Puncture (If Needed) – arranged as a day case to look for oligoclonal bands in cerebrospinal fluid.
Multidisciplinary Review – neurologist, radiologist, physiotherapist and neuropsychologist design a personalised plan.
Scheduled Follow‑Up – MRI and clinic review at least annually (more often if disease is active) to fine‑tune therapy.

Treatment And Ongoing Support

Relapse Management

Short courses of high‑dose steroids (oral or IV) to speed recovery from acute attacks.

Disease‑Modifying Therapies

Injectable, oral or infusion DMTs (e.g., interferons, glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate, fingolimod, ocrelizumab). Infusions are delivered in our comfortable day‑case suite with close monitoring.

Symptom Control

Medications for spasticity, neuropathic pain, bladder urgency, tremor or mood
Sleep and fatigue management strategies with occupational therapy and psychology

Rehabilitation & Lifestyle

Physiotherapy: strength, balance and gait re‑education in our outpatient gym
Occupational Therapy: pacing, energy conservation, workplace adaptations and driving assessments
Speech & Language Therapy: communication support and safe‑swallowing techniques if needed
Dietetic Advice: Mediterranean‑style eating, vitamin D optimisation and weight management
Smoking cessation, graded exercise and stress‑reduction coaching through our wider services

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital

Consultant‑delivered neurology clinics, usually available within one week
MRI on site for convenient, repeatable imaging
Dedicated outpatient neuro‑rehab facilities—no hospital admission required
Small, consistent team offering continuity and flexible appointment times
Free parking, tranquil surroundings and easy access from Oxford, Warwick and Northampton

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Can I Get Pregnant Safely?
Most women have successful pregnancies. Some DMTs need pausing or switching—your neurologist will coordinate care with obstetric teams.

Take Charge Of Your MS Journey

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

Field