Multiple Sclerosis Tips & Facts

A sampler of multiple sclerosis information

There are many unanswered questions about multiple sclerosis (MS). But there is still a vast amount of multiple sclerosis information available. If you can’t find what you are looking for here, the links listed after these facts and tips are a great place to continue your search.

FACTS

MS is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.

• An autoimmune disease is one in which the immune system attacks the body
• Normally, the immune system defends the body against foreign invaders, such as viruses or bacteria. Instead, in the case of MS, the body’s immune system attacks the nerves

The nerves in the brain help electrical impulses travel to and from the brain.

• Your brain contains nerve cells called neurons
• Each neuron is protected by a type of insulation called a myelin sheath
• The myelin sheath also helps the neurons do their job of helping electrical impulses travel to and from the brain

In multiple sclerosis, the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, damaging it.

• There can be so much damage that the neuron itself is hurt or even broken
• When this happens, the neuron cannot help electrical impulses travel where they are supposed to go
• This produces the different symptoms of MS

Common multiple sclerosis symptoms include:

• Bladder and bowel problems
• Cognitive difficulties
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Muscle rigidity or stiffness
• Weakness or poor coordination
• Numbness and tingling
• Pain in arms and legs
• Visual disturbances

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown.

However, these factors may lead to its development:

• Environmental elements (e.g., temperature)
• Infectious agent (i.e., bacteria or virus)
• Genetic predisposition

Anyone can get multiple sclerosis.

• 2-3 times more women than men have MS
• Most MS patients are of northern European descent and are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50

Worldwide, about 2.5 million people have multiple sclerosis (MS).

There are 4 different forms of multiple sclerosis.

They are:

• Relapsing-remitting
• Primary-progressive
• Secondary-progressive
• Progressive-relapsing

Relapsing-remitting is the most common form of multiple sclerosis.

About 85% of people with MS are first diagnosed with this form.

• People have sudden, clearly defined flare-ups (also known as relapses, attacks, or exacerbations)
• These flare-ups represent acute worsening of brain function
• They are followed by a time of partial or complete recovery (remission)

Treatment is very important because MS is like an iceberg.

The part that you see above the water is big .

• In multiple sclerosis, this would be relapses and other symptoms patients experience

But the part you can’t see below the water is even bigger and can have an even greater impact.

• In MS, brain lesions can develop and permanent loss of brain tissue (atrophy) can occur whether a person is having relapses and symptoms or not

You should start therapy as soon as possible.

• Many studies have shown that permanent nerve damage can happen during early relapses
• Limiting lesions may delay permanent future disability for many people with MS

There are 3 types of immunomodulators available to treat multiple sclerosis.

They work to interfere with or prevent the body from attacking itself:

• Natalizumab (Tysabri®)
• Interferon beta (Avonex®, Betaseron®, Rebif®)*
• Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone®)*

^{*Avonex® (Interferon beta-1a) is a registered trademark of Biogen Idec. Betaseron® (Interferon beta-1b) is a registered trademark of Berlex. Rebif® (Interferon beta-1a) is a registered trademark of Serono Inc and Pfizer Inc. Copaxone® (glatiramer acetate injection) is a registered trademark of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.}

Exercise does not cause relapses in multiple sclerosis.

• No studies have shown that exercise leads to an increase in disease activity
• Instead, exercise can improve many MS symptoms, including weakness, bladder and bowel problems, fatigue, and depression
• People with MS who are not physically active can be at a higher risk for heart disease, muscle weakness, fatigue, and broken bones

TIPS

Managing multiple sclerosis symptoms

Let your doctor know every time you have problems with multiple sclerosis symptoms. He or she may be able to prescribe medicines that will help reduce or relieve them.

Vision problems

Things you can try include:

• Buy a phone or cell phone with bigger numbers and voice activation features
• Adding a magnifying light to your computer or desk
• Using low-vision aids to make your computer screen easier to read
• Labeling refrigerator and freezer shelves in big print so it’s easier to find items
• Using an organizer for your makeup and toiletries

Weakness

Things you can try include:

• Starting an exercise program to improve strength and flexibility
• Using an assistive device to help you move more easily. This includes scooters, canes, crutches, and wheelchairs
  

Pain

Things you can try include:

• Starting a physical therapy program to learn strengthening exercises and ways to prevent overuse of muscles
• Asking your doctor if a prescription or over-the-counter medicine could help ease your MS pain
  

Bowel and bladder problems

Things you can try for your bowels include:

• Drinking at least 6 to 8 glasses of fluid every day
• Adding more fiber to your diet—especially if you have limited mobility, which can increase constipation
• Being as active as you can
• Using fiber supplements or stool softeners as needed, and only as advised by your doctor

Things you can try for your bladder include:

• Drinking at least 6 to 8 glasses of fluid every day
• Drinking cranberry juice
• Avoiding caffeine
• Using absorbent pads when necessary
• Advance planning—learn where bathrooms are at the mall, movie theater, or wherever you spend your free time

Balance/coordination problems

Talk to your doctor before you start any new physical activities. Things you can try include:

• Aerobic exercise (walking)
• Stretching exercises
• Physical therapy
• Using an assistive device, such as a brace or cane
  

Fatigue

Things you can try include:

• Getting as much sleep as possible at night and taking naps during the day
• Doing things in the morning or when you usually have the most energy
• Focusing on one task at a time to conserve energy
• Asking your doctor about physical therapy that can help you simplify daily tasks
• Thinking about the weather when you make plans to avoid heat and try to stay cool
• Asking your doctor if there are any medicines can that help reduce your fatigue
• Reducing stress

Cognitive impairment

Things you can try include:

• Creating a consistent daily routine to make remembering easier
• Keeping a daily diary with appointments, reminders, and “to do” lists
• Using electronic organizers for phone numbers and addresses
• Keeping important papers and other things in one place that’s easy to remember
• Taking a break if you feel lost or overwhelmed
• Keeping your sense of humor—a little laughter can go a long way
  

Mood changes/depression

Things you can try include:

• Talking to your doctor about medication and counseling
• Joining a self-help or support group to meet and gain strength from other people with MS
  

Intimacy

It’s sometimes hard to talk about the sexual difficulties associated with MS. Sexual dysfunction is a symptom that can be helped with counseling and medication. But most importantly, try to communicate as honestly as you can with your partner.

Other helpful resources to continue your search:

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

MS ActiveSource Multiple Sclerosis Information

Source: Some tips and facts on this page are based on information from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Their comments are based on professional advice, published experience, and expert opinion, but do not represent individual therapeutic recommendations or prescription. For specific information and advice, consult your personal physician.