At Mir Neurology, our board-certified neurologists diagnose and manage multiple sclerosis with personalized, long-term care for patients across Western Maryland, the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, and South-Central Pennsylvania.
Request an Appointment or call (301) 797-7600.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering, called myelin, around nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.
This damage disrupts the signals between your brain and the rest of your body, leading to a wide range of possible symptoms. MS affects everyone differently, which is why expert, individualized care matters so much. With today's treatments, MS is more manageable than ever before.
Symptoms of MS to Watch For
MS symptoms vary widely from person to person and can come and go. Common signs include:
- Numbness or tingling in the face, body, arms, or legs
- Fatigue that isn't explained by activity
- Vision problems, including blurred vision, double vision, or eye pain
- Weakness or difficulty walking
- Balance and coordination problems
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Dizziness
- Problems with memory, focus, or thinking
- Bladder or bowel changes
Because these symptoms overlap with many other conditions, an accurate diagnosis by a neurologist is essential. If you're experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, an evaluation can determine the cause.
How We Diagnose Multiple Sclerosis
There is no single test for MS. Diagnosis requires a careful neurological evaluation and a combination of findings to confirm the condition and rule out conditions that can mimic it.
Detailed History & Neurological Exam
We review your symptoms and test strength, sensation, vision, reflexes, balance, and coordination.
MRI Imaging
Imaging helps look for areas of damage, called lesions, in the brain and spinal cord.
Bloodwork
Blood tests may be used to rule out other conditions that can look like MS.
Additional Testing
When needed, testing may include spinal fluid analysis or evoked potential studies.
Diagnosis and a personalized plan: Your results are explained clearly, with a roadmap for treatment. Getting an accurate, timely diagnosis allows treatment to begin sooner — which can make a real difference in the long-term course of the disease.
MS Treatment and Ongoing Care
While there is no cure for MS yet, highly effective treatments can reduce relapses, slow the progression of the disease, and manage symptoms. MS care is a long-term partnership, and we tailor your plan to your specific type of MS and your goals.
- Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) to reduce relapses and slow progression
- Treatment of relapses or flares when they occur
- Symptom management for fatigue, pain, spasticity, bladder issues, and more
- Referrals to physical, occupational, and speech therapy to maintain function and independence
- Guidance on lifestyle, wellness, and staying active
- Regular monitoring with follow-up visits and imaging to keep your treatment on track
Our goal is to help you stay ahead of the disease and maintain the best possible quality of life.
Why Ongoing Neurology Care Matters with MS
MS is a lifelong condition, and the most successful outcomes come from a consistent relationship with a neurologist who knows you and your history.
Having an MS specialist close to home means easier follow-up, faster response to new symptoms or relapses, and a care team that's there for the long haul — without long drives to Baltimore, Pittsburgh, or D.C. for every visit.
Serving Western Maryland & the Tri-State Area
With offices in Cumberland and Hagerstown, we provide expert MS care close to home for patients from:
Maryland
Cumberland, Hagerstown, LaVale, Frostburg, Cresaptown, Hancock, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Boonsboro
West Virginia
Martinsburg, Keyser, Romney, Berkeley Springs, Paw Paw
Pennsylvania
Waynesboro, Greencastle, Chambersburg, Mercersburg
Cumberland office: 924 Seton Dr Suite C, Cumberland, MD 21502 — Mon–Sat, 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Hagerstown office: 11110 Medical Campus Rd Unit 151, Hagerstown, MD 21742 — Mon–Fri, 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Why Choose Mir Neurology?
- Board-certified neurologists with 20+ years of experience
- Comprehensive MS care — from diagnosis through long-term management
- Personalized treatment with the latest disease-modifying therapies
- Attentive, ongoing follow-up close to home
- Most major insurance plans accepted
- Two convenient locations in Cumberland and Hagerstown
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of doctor treats MS?
A neurologist diagnoses and manages multiple sclerosis. Because MS is a lifelong condition, ongoing care with a neurologist who knows your history leads to the best outcomes.
How is MS diagnosed?
There's no single test. Diagnosis is based on your symptoms, a neurological exam, MRI imaging showing areas of damage, and sometimes bloodwork or spinal fluid analysis to rule out other conditions.
Is multiple sclerosis hereditary?
MS isn't directly inherited, but genetics can raise your risk, and it can occur more than once in a family. Genetics and environmental factors both play a role.
Can MS be treated?
Yes. While there's no cure yet, disease-modifying therapies can reduce relapses and slow progression, and many symptoms can be effectively managed. Most people with MS live full, active lives.
What is the life expectancy with MS?
With modern treatment, most people with MS have a life expectancy close to the general population. Early diagnosis and ongoing care help protect long-term health.
Do I need a referral to be seen?
It depends on your insurance plan. Many patients can self-refer. Call (301) 797-7600 and our team will explain your coverage and next steps.
Living with MS or Worried About Your Symptoms? We Can Help.
Get expert diagnosis and personalized, long-term MS care at Mir Neurology in Cumberland or Hagerstown.