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Living with Multiple Sclerosis
Living with Multiple Sclerosis
On their podcast “MeSsy,” actresses Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Christina Applegate have candidly discussed their health struggles after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). When celebrities are diagnosed with a disease or condition, it often brings much-needed attention to that issue. So, what is multiple sclerosis, and how common is it?
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, nearly 1 million people in the United States live with MS. MS is a disease that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. It happens when the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, called myelin. This causes communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.
MS can cause many different symptoms, and they can vary from person to person. Common symptoms include fatigue, trouble walking, numbness or tingling in parts of the body, weakness in one or more limbs, blurry vision or double vision, dizziness, problems with bladder control, and memory problems.
Doctors aren’t sure exactly what causes MS, but they believe it involves a combination of genetics and environmental factors. This means that a person might have genes that make them more likely to get MS, and something in their environment could trigger the disease. There is currently no cure for MS, but there are many studies underway to learn more about the disease and possible treatments. A recent one from University of California discovered signs of MS show up in a person’s blood long before physical symptoms appear.
“Diagnosis is not always straightforward for MS, because we haven’t had disease-specific biomarkers,” said study author Michael Wilson. “We’re excited to have anything that can give more diagnostic certainty earlier on, to have a concrete discussion about whether to start treatment for each patient.”
In the United States, most people with MS are between ages 55 and 64. The natural changes that come with aging, like changes to balance and stamina, can be difficult to differentiate from MS symptoms.
Living with MS can be challenging, but there are ways to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life:
Medication: There are medicines that may help reduce the number of flare-ups. Some medications can also help manage symptoms like pain or muscle stiffness.
Healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can help keep the body strong. MS affects physical functions, so ask a healthcare provider how you or a loved one can exercise safely.
Physical therapy: Working with a physical therapist can help people living with MS stay active and maintain their strength and balance.
Support: It’s important to have a good support system for people with MS and their caregivers. This can include family, friends, and support groups where you can share experiences and get advice.
Stress management: Finding ways to relax and manage stress, such as through meditation, yoga, or hobbies, can help improve overall well-being.
Remember, if you or someone you know has MS, it’s important to work closely with healthcare professionals to find the best ways to manage the disease. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has resources for people living with MS and their friends and family.
Source: IlluminAge AgeWise