Managing the Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term, progressive disease of the brain and spinal cord that together, make up the central nervous system. Currently, there is no cure for MS, but treatments are available that help in managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is thought to be an autoimmune disease, meaning that the body's own immune system attacks itself, and in the case of MS, the immune system is attacking the cells of the brain and the spinal cord.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

There are many symptoms associated with MS, with the most common being fatigue, depression, bladder and bowel dysfunction, spasticity, numbness and tingling, dizziness, vertigo, pain and problems with vision and/or cognition. Symptoms can vary in how long they last, how severe they are, and the associated disability that comes with them. It should be emphasized, however, that symptoms of MS are also associated with many other diseases and disorders, so just because you have some of the symptoms listed, does not necessarily mean you have MS.

Living With Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis can have a profound impact on your life. While drug treatments are available to help modify symptoms, there are some steps that you can take toward managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis on your own. For example, exercising more, eating better and getting more sleep are the basis for any healthy lifestyle and are relatively easy steps to implement in your life. Try some relaxation or visualization techniques to improve your emotional well-being. Rejuvenate your social relationships by talking more with friends and family or spending more time with your spouse. Enrich your mental and intellectual health by reading a book or learning another language. Reconnect with your spirituality with thoughtful prayer and daily meditation. Commit yourself to health and you will be healthier, in spite of your disease. Taking steps toward managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis is something that you can do on your own to help regain a sense of control over your life, control that the symptoms of multiple sclerosis try to take from you.