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Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, unpredictable disease of the brain and central nervous system. It affects about one million people in the United States alone. MS can significantly impact an individual’s physical and mental well-being, making effectively managing MS symptoms absolutely essential to having a complete and fulfilling life.
How can you live your best life with multiple sclerosis?
Proven Ways for Managing MS So You Can Feel Good and Function at your Best
Learn All You Can About Multiple Sclerosis
If you have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, you need to understand how this immune system problem affects you now and how it may impact you in the future. With multiple sclerosis, your own body actually attacks and degrades the protective myelin sheath surrounding your nerves. Poor communication between the nerves and the brain results.
The progressive deterioration of the nerves causes a wide range of difficult symptoms. For some people, these symptoms become worse, and over time, causing a great deal of disability.
For other MS patients, the symptoms come and go. In other words, some types of multiple sclerosis go through cycles of exacerbations and relapses. These relapses, also known as flare-ups or attacks, can be unpredictable and may last for several days or even months.
Some of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the arms and legs
- Slurred speech
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulties with gait, balance, and coordination
- Pronounced fatigue
- Vision problems (partial or complete loss)
- Bladder, sexual and bowel dysfunction
- Cognitive impairments/li>
- Emotional changes, such as depression or anxiety
Learning about MS symptoms and what may trigger your flare-ups will help you make informed decisions regarding your lifestyle and treatment options. Take advantage of resources available from your neurologist, at local or online MS support groups, and from reputable organizations, such as the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Managing MS with Exercise
Exercise is another important aspect of managing MS. Regular physical activity can improve strength, balance, coordination, and overall mood.
Consult your neurologist or a certified physical therapist for a tailored exercise program. Regular physical activity will improve your endurance, strength, and function. Exercise also increases your confidence in performing daily activities related to home, family, and occupation.
Diet for Managing MS
Along with physical exercise, it is also important to maintain a healthy diet. A well-balanced diet can provide essential nutrients to optimize your energy levels and avoid fatigue, bowel issues and other symptoms.
Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, lean protein (fish), and healthy fats. Watch how much-saturated fat and carbohydrates you consume. Some research indicates that a vegan diet helps MS patients with many symptoms.
Finally, avoid all alcohol and stop smoking. Alcohol lessens nerve function, and cigarettes make MS patients feel worse.
Medications for Managing MS
In addition to these lifestyle changes, there are also various medication options available for managing MS. These may include disease-modifying therapies that work to slow down the progression of MS, reduce the frequency of flare-ups and help you recover from flare-ups more quickly when you do have them.
Other MS treatments include:
- Corticosteroids
- Injectable medications, such as different kinds of interferon
- Oral medications
- IV infusion medications
Additionally, your neurologist may prescribe medications to relieve specific MS symptoms. For example, you may take Cialis for erectile dysfunction, Vistaril for pain, Antivert for dizziness, and other drugs as needed.
Many people also explore the effectiveness of certain vitamin and mineral supplements and herbal remedies. While these may not be proven to treat MS, some individuals have reported positive results.
Ensure to discuss any alternative treatments with your healthcare provider before incorporating them into your MS management plan. Your neurologist can help you weigh the potential risks and benefits, so you make an informed decision.
Self-Care Strategies
Along with medical treatments, prioritize self-care when managing MS. This can include taking time for relaxation, friends, and hobbies, as well as stress management techniques such as yoga, prayer, or meditation.
MS Treatment Options in Detroit, MI
At Associates in Neurology, our team includes compassionate, highly driven, board-certified neurologists who are dedicated to bettering the lives of patients living with multiple sclerosis.
To learn more about MS and how to manage symptoms effectively, call us at (248) 478-5512 or request your personalized consultation here.
Associates in Neurology has locations in Farmington Hills, Novi, and Howell, MI. We look forward to helping you navigate health and wellness with MS.
