Emily Malcolm,  —

Articles by Emily Malcolm

Could My Child Have MS?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective coating that surrounds nerve fibers and helps them function. Damage to this protective coating, called myelin, means the nerve fibers are fragile and easily damaged. MS in children, or pediatric MS, is…

Fasting and MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protein coating that protects nerve fibers from damage. It is unknown what triggers the immune system’s attack, but many MS treatments are targeted at reducing inflammation to curb the activity of the immune system.

CBD and Multiple Sclerosis: What You Need to Know

Topics related to the use and effectiveness of cannabidiol (CBD) and medical marijuana are of increasing interest to many people, including those with multiple sclerosis (MS). A web-based survey hosted by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, with results published in 2017, indicated that as many as…

Is SPMS Going to Affect My Life Expectancy?

Receiving a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive neurological disorder, can be frightening. One of the first things patients ask is — what does this mean for me? Will my life expectancy drop with this diagnosis? What is life expectancy? Life expectancy is a “best guess” of…

SPMS and Diet: What Foods Can Help?

Many treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) are targeted at reducing inflammation, thereby slowing progression of the autoimmune disease. An anti-inflammatory diet also may slow disease progression, as well as enhance the positive effects of anti-inflammatory medications. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protein coat that surrounds nerve…

FAQs About Multiple Sclerosis

A diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) often leaves patients and their families with many unanswered questions. It can be hard to find information, connect with other patients, and find support. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about MS: What is MS? MS is an autoimmune disease —…