What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

MS is thought to be an autoimmune disease in which the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks normal tissues of the body. In MS, these attacks are aimed at the myelin in the Central Nervous System (CNS).

The CNS, which includes the brain and spinal cord, is made up of nerves that act as the body's messenger system. Each nerve has a fatty covering of myelin that serves as insulation, which helps in the transmission of nerve impulses (messages) between the brain and other parts of the body. Once myelin in a certain area has been damaged, normal nerve function is disturbed and a number of symptoms can be experienced.

MS Specialist at Lakewood Hospital

A neurologist is a medical specialist trained to evaluate problems of the nervous system, including the symptoms of MS. Neurologists have an in-depth understanding of the central nervous system and how it is affected by multiple sclerosis. 

 
Alexander Rae-Grant, MD
Dr. Rae-Grant is board-certified in neurology and specializes in the care of patients with multiple sclerosis. He plays an active role at Cleveland Clinic Mellen Center overseeing education on multiple sclerosis in the northeastern Ohio region, assists with clinical trials, and is involved with resident and student education at the Clinic. With the addition of Dr. Rae-Grant, patients with multiple sclerosis have access to evaluations, follow-up care and treatment, close to home.

Services available:

• Diagnose MS
  
• Make recommendations for treatment, testing, and symptom management
  
• Are available to answer your medical questions, sign forms, fill prescriptions, and provide help with disability-related issues
  
• May initiate courses of care for MS including disease modifying therapies, treatment for attacks, symptom management, and referral to other members of the team for treatment and counseling 

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Rae-Grant please call 216.529.7110 (Lakewood Hospital) or 216.445.2751 (Main Campus)