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It is estimated that 2.5 million people worldwide suffer from MS, including 400,000 in the US, twice as many women as men. A person is diagnosed with MS every hour.
The MS Center is a cooperative venture of Wentworth-Douglass Hospital and Coastal Neurology Services medical group to help MS patients improve the management of their disease. Located at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, the Center complements and expands the neurosciences service line already offered by the Hospital including the Sleep Disorders Center, the Center for Pain Management, a Neuro-Oncology Program, spine surgery and stroke care protocols.
The mission of the Center is to improve the lives of MS patients using a multidisciplinary approach to the disease as well as providing patient education and family centered support. The Center promotes positive differences in the lives of those affected by MS. Specific services include:
- Disease management, specialized medical care and clinical trials through Coastal Neurology Services
- Infusion therapy Neuro-oncologist Enrico Lallana, MD, is subspecialty trained in infusion therapy using chemotherapeutic agents and monoclonal antibodies for prevention of relapse and progression in MS patients
- Education Individual and group sessions on the physical and emotional aspects of living with MS are offered. Center staff work in conjunction with the Central New England Chapter of the National MS Society to ensure patients and families are aware of all educational offerings available in the Seacoast region whether sponsored directly by the Center or by other organizations.
- Activity/Exercise Many newly diagnosed MS patients have found that staying active in the community and other personal interest can be difficult. The Center offers programs designed to help maintain activity levels such as supervised exercise, Reiki and Yoga in conjunction with The Works Family Health & Fitness Center and recreational activities through the Social Work Services Department.
- Support groups The Center maintains an active support group program designed to improve knowledge about the disease process, and provide practical methods for patients to adhere to their individual care plans.
MS is a chronic, progressive and potentially debilitating disease of the central nervous system thought to be autoimmune in nature and has no cure. It is typically diagnosed within the ages of 20 and 50. The disease is unpredictable, and varies in severity, but it usually progresses.
In MS, the body incorrectly directs antibodies and white blood cells against proteins in the myelin sheath, which surrounds nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This causes inflammation and injury to the sheath and ultimately to the nerves it surrounds. The result may be multiple areas of scarring (sclerosis). Eventually, this damage can slow or block the nerve signals that control muscle coordination, strength, sensation and vision.
Patients may also suffer from bladder and bowel abnormalities, kidney disease, sexual dysfunction and depression. MS symptoms, complications and the care required often place a great burden on patients and their families.
Modern treatments can modify the course of the disease, postpone progression and relieve symptoms in many patients. The MS Center at WDH offers the latest technologies, specialized treatments and unique system of support for MS patients and their families. Its convenient and close to home.
For more information on the MS Center, call Coastal Neurology Services at (603) 749-0913.
Staff include:
Enrico Lallana, MD
Paul Cass, DO-Coastal Neurology
Gary Usher, MD-Coastal Neurology
Jonathan Warach, MD-Coastal Neurology
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