Adjusting to Multiple Sclerosis: Prospects, Lifestyle Advice, and Influence on Life
Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, impacts over nearly one million individuals in the United States. The condition can affect any part of the body, causing a range of symptoms such as muscle weakness and spasms, blurred or double vision, tiredness, changes in mood, difficulty with thinking clearly, loss of control of bladder and bowel function, and more.
Fortunately, there are various ways to manage MS symptoms and improve quality of life. Medications can help with complications such as changes in bladder control, fatigue, and itching. Some medications can reduce the number of flares and slow the progression of the disease, particularly in Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS), the most common type of MS. Examples of drugs that help reduce specific MS symptoms include pain relief medication and laxatives for constipation.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes play a crucial role in managing MS. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber, along with regular exercise, regulated sleep, stress management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can support the management of MS. Maintaining low-level physical activity and a low-fat, high-fiber diet can be particularly beneficial.
Physiotherapy, including exercises and massage to improve muscle function and relieve pain, is often part of the treatment plan for people with MS. An occupational therapist can help individuals with MS manage their working and social life, while speech therapy may be required to help return some parts of speaking to normal function, as well as medical assistance with swallowing.
Living with MS can be challenging due to its unpredictable symptoms and ongoing fatigue and pain. However, with the right support, people with MS can live active, long, and happy lives. Acknowledging and addressing the emotional aspects of living with MS can help both individuals with the condition and caregivers cope, as well as helping close family and friends provide a support network.
Charities such as The National MS Society offer a wide variety of tools, facilities, and advice to support people with the condition. Many occupational therapy and relaxation programs are available to help people with MS manage their symptoms. Injectable steroids can help manage sudden attacks of severe symptoms, such as temporary vision loss and muscle weakness, by reducing inflammation.
While the mortality rate among people with MS is higher than in the general population due to complications such as infection, diseases affecting the lungs or heart, or depression leading to suicide, most people with MS can expect to have a lifespan similar to a person without MS, but some may need an assistive device like a walking stick. Recent research suggests that a protein-rich diet may improve the outlook for MS by reducing inflammation.
In conclusion, while MS is a complex and challenging condition, with the right combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes, people with MS can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
- The impact of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) on over nearly one million individuals in the United States includes various symptoms like muscle weakness and spasms, vision problems, fatigue, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties.
- Medications play a significant role in managing MS, helping to address complications and slow the progression of the disease, particularly in Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS).
- Lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can support the management of MS.
- Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical assistance with swallowing are often part of the treatment plan for individuals with MS, aiming to improve muscle function, manage daily activities, and address speaking and swallowing issues.
- Living with MS can be emotionally challenging, but acknowledging and addressing these emotional aspects can help both individuals with MS and their caregivers cope, as well as fostering a supportive network among close family and friends.
- Charities like The National MS Society and various occupational therapy and relaxation programs offer resources and support to help people with MS manage their condition, cope with challenges, and improve their quality of life.
- Recent research suggests that a protein-rich diet may have a positive impact on MS, potentially reducing inflammation and improving the outlook for those diagnosed with the condition.
