Multiple Sclerosis, until now, has no known cure. It’s a condition that affects the central nervous system, which means the entire body suffers from a variety of symptoms. If you have MS, you will experience fatigue, problems with movement and balance. Over time, the symptoms may become much worse and potentially debilitating.
According to scientists and medical professionals, medication isn’t sufficient to manage the symptoms of MS. If you want to live a more fulfilling life despite your diagnosis, consider the following ten tips.
Learn more about the disease
Multiple Sclerosis has different stages that determine the severity of the condition. Since symptoms vary greatly, doctors often prescribe different treatment plans. Although there isn’t much we know about the cause of the disease, there’s plenty of information available that will help you manage the disease. Also, it might be easier to cope with the diagnosis by focusing on the facts and avoiding misconceptions.
Stay updated with clinical trials and new treatment
Participating in clinical trials can significantly help scientists progress with their studies. You can also join an MS support group to keep abreast of new treatment plans and other news you might not be able to get elsewhere.
Stay physically active
Exercising will help keep your muscles strong. Physical therapy could also improve mobility and help restore your sense of balance.
Get enough sleep
Since one of the most common symptoms of MS is fatigue, getting enough sleep daily will give you an advantage. If you’re having trouble sleeping, make some simple changes to your sleeping habit. For instance, establish a bedtime routine that will relax your body and prepare you for a good night’s sleep.
Eat a balanced diet
A diet of healthy and nutritious food is critical to living with MS. Eating more fruits and vegetables will keep you feeling more energized. You must also avoid drinking alcoholic beverages and consuming fatty food.
Stimulate and engage your brain with simple activities
Besides making sure that your body stays active, it would help if you exercise your brain. Activities that challenge your mind, such as playing memory games, solving a crossword puzzle, or reading a book will help improve brain function.
Avoid getting depressed
The stress of living with MS can lead to depression. Unfortunately, the more stressed you are, the more fatigued you’ll feel. Depression could also trigger other symptoms of MS to appear. Apart from taking care of your physical well-being, it will also help if you get support from a professional. Consider going to a therapist to deal with the overwhelming emotions you might be feeling.
Quit smoking and other similar habits
To maximize health, you need to stop any bad habit, such as smoking. According to scientists, smoking is a risk factor for MS and also contributes to worsening the condition. If you don’t smoke, make sure that you avoid any exposure to second-hand smoke as well.
Maintain a stable body temperature
Most people with MS experience temperature sensitivity. Increased body temperature worsens the condition since the nerves become incapable of conducting electric impulses. Similarly, you also need to avoid raising your body temperature when the weather is cold.
Maintain perspective
It’s essential to keep things in perspective. Avoid overthinking and worrying about what you can’t control. Find simple ways to relax and stay happy each day. Keep a steady and reasonable pace when doing things, and never be too hard on yourself.
