Understanding MS: A Dual Approach to Healing

🧪  Mainstream and Functional Testing & Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune and neurodegenerative condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath—a protective coating around nerves in the brain and spinal cord. The result? Inflammation, scar tissue (sclerosis), and disrupted communication between the brain and the body.

⚠️ Common MS Symptoms

• 🦶 Numbness or tingling

• 💪 Muscle weakness or spasms

• 🛏️ Fatigue

• 👁️ Blurred or double vision

• ⚖️ Dizziness or balance issues

• 🚶‍♀️ Difficulty walking

• 🧠 Brain fog or cognitive dysfunction

• 🚽 Bladder or bowel issues

• 😔 Mood swings or depression

🧬 Types of MS

• Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) – Most common

• Secondary progressive MS (SPMS) – Follows RRMS in some patients

• Primary progressive MS (PPMS) – Gradual progression from the start

• Progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS) – Rare, with ongoing worsening and flare-ups

🧪 Mainstream Medical Testing for MS

1. MRI: Detects plaques or lesions in the CNS
2. Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): Checks for oligoclonal bands in cerebrospinal fluid
3. Evoked Potentials: Measures nerve response speed via visual, auditory, or sensory stimulation
4. Blood Tests: Rules out mimicking conditions like B12 deficiency or lupus

💊 Mainstream Treatment for MS

Acute Flares:

• Corticosteroids (e.g., IV methylprednisolone) to calm inflammation

Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs):

• Injectables: Avonex, Copaxone

• Orals: Tecfidera, Gilenya, Aubagio

• Infusions: Ocrevus, Tysabri, Lemtrada

Symptom Management:

• Muscle relaxants

• Fatigue-targeting meds

• Bladder/bowel support

• Antidepressants or cognitive aids

🚧 Limitations of Conventional MS Treatment

While DMTs may slow disease progression, they often fail to:

• Reverse existing nerve damage

• Address root causes

• Improve daily energy, gut health, or systemic inflammation

Stable MRI scans don’t always mean you feel stable.

🔬 Functional Medicine View of MS

Functional medicine approaches MS as a whole-body imbalance, not just a neurological problem. It asks:
What’s triggering the immune system and harming nerve tissue?

Common drivers include:

• Gut dysbiosis

• Nutrient deficiencies

• Chronic infections

• Toxin exposure

• Mitochondrial dysfunction

• Food sensitivities

🧪 Functional Testing for MS Patients

1. Gut Health
GI MAP, stool testing for pathogens, permeability, SIBO
→ 70% of the immune system lives here.

2. Nutrient Levels
Vitamin D3, B12, magnesium, omega-3s, glutathione
→ Crucial for nerve health, mitochondrial function, and inflammation control.

3. Toxin Exposure
Mycotoxin panels, heavy metals (urine challenge)
→ Mold and metals can harm mitochondria and the CNS.

4. Food & Environmental Triggers
IgG food sensitivity panels, zonulin, leaky gut markers
→ Autoimmunity often follows gut-barrier breakdown.

5. Chronic Infections
EBV, Lyme, herpes viruses
→ Reactivated infections may worsen flares or mimic MS symptoms.

6. Mitochondrial Testing
Organic acids, ATP profile
→ MS affects energy production—targeting mitochondria can help.

🌿 Functional Approaches to MS Treatment

1. Anti-Inflammatory Diets
Wahls Protocol, AIP, or nutrient-dense Paleo
→ Emphasizes leafy greens, wild fish, healthy fats, and avoidance of triggers

2. Supplements That Support the CNS:

• 🧴 Vitamin D3

• 🧠 Omega-3s (EPA/DHA)

• 🔋 CoQ10, NAC, ALA

• 🧬 Magnesium, B vitamins, glutathione precursors

3. Gut Repair Protocols:
Probiotics, collagen, L-glutamine, digestive enzymes

4. Detox Support
Binders, sauna therapy, clean water/air, antioxidant support

5. Neurological Rehab
PT, OT, balance training, neuroplasticity-focused movement

6. Lifestyle Optimization

• Deep sleep hygiene

• Stress and trauma resolution

• Clean environment + EMF awareness

🧩 The Integrative Path Forward

Many MS patients thrive with a hybrid approach:

• Conventional medicine for flare stabilization and safety

• Functional medicine for energy, clarity, and deeper healing

MS may change the path—but not the power you have to walk it.

💬 Autoimmune 411 Takeaway

MS doesn’t have to be the end of your story. It’s a call to rebuild your body and protect your brain—with strategy, support, and self-trust.

You’re not just managing disease. You’re restoring function. You’re reclaiming life. 💥

👣 Want the step-by-step SMART Path™ to autoimmune healing?
Inside Autoimmune 411 Academy, I walk you through every step of the SMART Path™ so you’ll understand why each one matters and in the correct sequence—empowering you to turn symptoms into signals, know what needs to be done next, and confidently vet practitioners, diets, protocols, and tests.

[→ Enroll Here]

💪On the Frontlines with you,

Alice McDonnell

Founder and 20+ year Patient Advocate,
Autoimmune 411 ~ Hashimoto’s 411 ~ Autoimmune 411 Academy

🚨Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional. I’m sharing what I’ve learned through over two decades of research, patient feedback, and lived experience. This is for informational purposes only—always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health plan.