ABCs of NMOSD

Dr. Brian Weinshenker joined GG deFiebre of SRNA and Jacinta Behne of The Guthy-Jackson Charitable Foundation for an ABCs of NMOSD podcast entitled, "History, Diagnosis, and Management of NMOSD." Dr. Weinshenker began with a history of NMOSD and how the aquaporin-4 antibody was discovered as a biomarker for NMO. He discussed other diagnoses that were historically used before NMOSD was coined, and he discussed the differences between how NMOSD is understood today since Dr. Devic's first understanding of the disease. Dr. Weinshenker talked about how a diagnosis of NMOSD is made, including the clinical makeup and diagnostic tests used. Finally, Dr. Weinshenker explained the acute and long-term treatments used and symptom management for NMOSD.

GG deFiebre of SRNA is joined by Dr. Eoin Flanagan for an ABCs of NMOSD podcast on "MOGAD and NMOSD – Is MOGAD Part of NMOSD or a Distinct Diagnosis?" Dr. Flanagan outlines the similarities and differences between MOG antibody disease (MOGAD) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD.) He discusses the different treatments for each disorder and how they are distinguished from multiple sclerosis. Dr. Flanagan talks about the history of these disorders and why it is important to differentiate them. Finally, Dr. Flanagan describes how people diagnosed with MOGAD and NMOSD can receive medical care and what they can expect for the future.

For this ABCs of NMOSD podcast, "COVID-19 and NMOSD," GG deFiebre of SRNA is joined by Dr. Michael Levy from Harvard Medical Center and Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Levy begins by explaining the risk associated with COVID-19 for someone diagnosed with NMOSD, and how medications such as rituximab may impact them. He discusses the current COVID-19 vaccines available and what people with NMOSD should know about receiving one. He talks about the protocol for relapses that occur during the pandemic and the first line treatments that are used after an attack. Finally, he provides information on whether COVID-19 infection and COVID-19 vaccines have caused relapses or new cases of NMOSD, and he reveals the research that is currently being conducted on this subject.

GG deFiebre of SRNA is joined by Ireland Thomas, a member of SRNA and person diagnosed with NMOSD. Ireland begins by describing her initial symptoms when she was six years old and her journey to getting an NMOSD diagnosis. She talks about the treatments she received and her experience as a child within the medical system. Ireland discusses how NMOSD impacts her life, including ongoing symptoms, her personal identity, and the transition from childhood to being an adult living with this disorder. She touches on her fears and her hopes for the future. Finally, Ireland talks about how she explains NMOSD to others in her life.

GG deFiebre of SRNA is joined by Kristen Hewitt, an SRNA support group leader, and person diagnosed with NMOSD. Kristen begins by describing her initial symptoms and her journey to getting an NMOSD diagnosis. She talks about the treatments she received and her experience within the medical system. Kristen discusses how NMOSD impacts her life, including ongoing symptoms, work-life, and personal relationships. She touches on her fears and her hopes for the future. Finally, Kristen talks about how NMOSD has affected her as a parent.

Dr. Kyle Blackburn, Dr. Cynthia Wang, and Dr. Ruchika Prakash joined GG deFiebre of SRNA and Dr. Chelsey Judge of the Connor B. Judge Foundation for an ABCs of NMOSD podcast on "Complementary Therapies and NMOSD." The experts begin by explaining what complementary therapy is and what common approaches are used. They discuss acupuncture, chiropractic procedures, supplements, diet, exercise, and medical marijuana. The experts provide information on functional electrical stimulation, a possible complementary therapy at the acute stage of an inflammatory attack. Finally, the experts discuss how mindfulness can be helpful in overall health.

SRNA was joined by Katherine Chapman, LCSW, CRND for this ABCs of NMOSD podcast on "Psychosocial Aspects of NMOSD: Anxiety, Depression, and How to Cope." She begins by explaining the ways in which NMOSD can affect mental health and cause anxiety and depression. She describes different coping mechanisms and strategies for improving mental health. Katherine provides information on therapy and how to choose a mental health professional. Finally, she describes methods of asking for help and communicating with friends and family about mental health struggles.

GG deFiebre of SRNA is joined by Dr. Jacqueline Nicholas for an ABCs of NMOSD podcast on "Symptom Management: Spasticity." Dr. Nicholas begins by explaining spasticity and tone and how it is affected by NMOSD. She discusses the causes of spasticity and why some people experience it while others do not. She describes first-line and second-line treatments for spasticity and how exercise can help. Dr. Nicholas explains how spasticity can affect ligaments, muscles, and bones.

For this ABCs of NMOSD podcast on "Symptom Management: Bladder Dysfunction," GG deFiebre of SRNA is joined by Dr. Philippines Cabahug. Dr. Cabahug starts off by explaining how bladder function can be affected by NMOSD and the types of problems a person with NMOSD might experience. She discusses treatment options, including medications, catheterization, and Botox injections. She talks about UTIs and methods for avoiding them. Finally, Dr. Cabahug discusses InterStim, the effects of aging on the bladder, and when to establish care with a neurologist.

GG deFiebre of SRNA is joined by Dr. Margaret Jones for an ABCs of NMOSD podcast on "Symptom Management: Bowel Dysfunction." The podcast begins with Dr. Jones giving a brief overview of the possible effects of NMOSD on bowel function and the different issues someone with NMOSD might experience. She then discusses treatment options and how a treatment plan is decided. Dr. Jones talks about digital stimulation, constipation, and the effects of aging on bowel function.