Things to Know When Your Child Is Diagnosed With MS, With Rachel Zolno, M.D.

When a child is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), it can feel overwhelming and frightening for families. But according to Rachel Zolno, M.D., a pediatric MS specialist at Mount Sinai, there is reason for hope. Thanks to major advances in treatment, children with MS today can lead full, active lives.

MS is a chronic, inflammatory disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It’s considered autoimmune, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own nervous system. While MS is more commonly diagnosed in adults, 3% to 10% of people with MS experience their first symptoms before age 18.

Most children diagnosed with MS have a relapsing-remitting form, meaning they experience flare-ups of symptoms followed by periods of recovery. These flares can look different for each child and may include blurry or double vision, eye pain, limb weakness, numbness or tingling, coordination issues or bowel/bladder problems. Symptoms from MS typically last a day or more and should be evaluated by an MS specialist.

Diagnosis often includes MRIs and bloodwork to rule out similar conditions. Once diagnosed, treatment starts quickly. While there is no cure yet, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can prevent flares and slow the disease. These include IV medications given as little as every six months or daily oral pills. Families and care teams choose what works best for the child.

Monitoring continues with regular MRIs to detect any new disease activity, even if symptoms aren’t obvious. Importantly, early and consistent treatment leads to better outcomes. Zolno emphasizes that many of her young patients go on to attend college, pursue careers and start families — living lives they imagined before diagnosis.

5 Things to Know When Your Child Is Diagnosed With MS

• MS is rare but real in children — early diagnosis is key.
• Symptoms may include vision changes, numbness, weakness or bladder issues lasting a day or more.
• Modern MS treatments are highly effective and can reduce or even prevent flares.
• MS medications can suppress the immune system — side effects and monitoring are essential.
• You are not alone — ask questions, stay informed and build a support team.