MS, or multiple sclerosis, can limit someone’s ease and quality of life. The symptoms range in severity and tend to change rapidly with no warning. People with MS may experience trouble walking, tingling and numbness, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, bladder issues, and other chronic health problems. Today, treatments are limited to addressing symptoms as the condition is incurable. Recently, phototherapy has been considered for it’s potential to mitigate MS symptoms. Below, Lauren A. Daman, M.D., P.C. in Hartford, CT, shares some information on this type of treatment and how it might help MS patients.

How People With MS May Benefit from Phototherapy 

What is Phototherapy?

Phototherapy is a carefully controlled method of treating the skin with artificial ultraviolet light. It has been used to address skin eruptions like psoriasis and eczema for many years but has only recently been applied to treating the effects of MS.

How Can This Procedure be Beneficial for Those with MS?

A study showed that it might be possible to use UV light to deactivate HDACs, or histone deacetylases. These molecules contribute to inflammation and are thought to be the cause behind many MS symptoms, like chronic pain. The phototherapy method allows dermatologists to apply light only to the affected areas, limiting exposure to other locales that do not require the HDAC blocking treatment. This may reduce joint pain, a significant concern for people who have MS.

Phototherapy is noninvasive and does not require recovery time. For some, this may be a convenient method of reducing pain and helping MS patients live a more fulfilling life. If you want to learn more about the benefits of phototherapy, call Lauren A. Daman, M.D., P.C. at (860) 246-3533. The office also offers sclerotherapy, Botox®, collagen, spider vein removal, microdermabrasion, and peels to help you gain confidence in yourself. Visit the website for information about their treatment services.