YourSamaritan.com

Turn the Shocking News of MS Into Hopeful News

2008-03-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

Nobody likes to see a loved one stressed, fatigued, in pain or having mood swings on any ordinary day, but when a loved is diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the very real physical deterioration, on top of very possible and extreme emotional issues will be a part of everyday and must be coped with by the people surrounding them.

In order for one to have patience and sensitivity to someone living with disease, it is important to be conscious of the emotional stages. A basic psychology class teaches that there are 7 stages of grief that a person goes through, first recognized in a publication by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. The evolution of emotions follow: shock or disbelief, denial, anger, bargaining, guilt, depression, acceptance and hope.

Hope is the destination for all involved in the lives of someone with MS, and there truly is hope. The best way to minimize anxiety is through education. One should learn as much as they can about MS and be able to discuss it openly and intelligently. That builds a trusting relationship. When possible attempt to go along to doctor and therapy visits, not just to be a pal, but to also ask questions and be an advocate for the best possible care.

There are many new breakthroughs in the treatments of MS. Of course, they are not on the front page of the newspaper, but MS is not a forgotten disease. In your home, keep researching and keep strong. The loved ones need your best, whether they are in anger or in depression. Show care and concern, not fears whenever you can. Equally important, never forget you are not alone there are family support groups and counseling to help.

By moving away from shock and denial and initiating real coping tactics, MS doesn't have to end relationships, but can strengthen the life.

Family support to a victim of Multiple Sclerosis

2008-03-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system. Approximately 400,000 people in the United States have been diagnosed with MS. A person may have severe mood swings, feelings of numbness, exaggerated emotions, fatigue, vision loss, loss of bladder control or loss of mobility.

After the diagnosis it is not uncommon for a person to feel anger, fear, depression, guilt and denial. These feelings can be managed with help from physicians, support groups, and learning about the disease. Emotional stress not only affects the person who is ill but also those close to that person. The spouse often becomes a care partner and many times there are role reversals. Children can help although it is important not to expect a child to be the primary caregiver. Young children and teens need to continue to develop their own lives. MS can be very expensive for both treatment and care. Investigate health insurance and available financial assistance. Employment and family revenue may be affected. Your financial adviser or attorney will be able to assist in developing a financial plan and understanding your health plans. MS can be unpredictable and planning will help to lessen the stress caused by the unexpected. Make changes in your home to accommodate physical handicaps. Alternate plans need to be made for travel. Ask and receive help from friends and relatives.

In many cases a family grows closer together by understanding and showing compassion to each other.
Using support groups, willing to be flexible, and open communication are keys to coping with MS.

Helping Patients and Family Members Cope With Multiple Sclerosis

2008-03-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

Multiple Sclerosis, or MS, is an awful, debilitating disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. The body's immune system that is supposed to attack abnormal cells begins to attack normal healthy nerve cells. This leads to problems with gait (steadiness), muscle strength, vision, and loss of sensation in the limbs. This abnormal attack is referred to as an autoimmune disease and unfortunately, there is no cure. There are some medications available to help slow the progression of the disease, but with that one positive aspect, the patient needs to keep in mind there are many side effects with some of the medications.

When someone is diagnosed with MS, it is very frightening. To diagnose someone with MS is hard, seeing as there are no specific tests that can be done. It usually is diagnosed by physical exam and MRI scan. It is extremely important that the patient and family and/or significant others get educated on the disease process and possible treatments.

The important thing that the newly diagnosed person should try to focus on is a positive outlook. If help is needed, there are several support groups to assist with the understanding of the disease process. Make every effort to take care of yourself by eating right and exercising. Encourage family and significant others to join support groups as well.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society offers many resources for both the patient and caregivers. They have a full listing of all the support groups in your area readily available.

About Multiple Sclerosis

2008-03-25T21:00:00.000-07:00

Early warning signs of multiple sclerosis, also known as MS, include fatigue, sensitivity to heat, tingling, numbness, loss of balance, weakness in one or more limbs, blurred or double vision. This disease usually has it’s onset between ages 20 and 40. It has been found to be more prevalent in women than men. It is a disease that is believed to have genetic and environmental triggers. The statistics show that the disease’s occurrence becomes more prevalent the further away from the equator one lives. It also may be related to hormonal triggers in the body, pregnant women with MS experience a lessoning of symptoms.

Less common symptoms of multiple sclerosis are slurred speech, or sudden onset of paralysis, lack of coordination, cognitive difficulties, muscle spasms, as well as, changing in thinking or perception and sexual disturbances. There is evidence that people with food allergies are more susceptible to MS due to inflammation, and that women who use birth control pills may also be affected by MS because the pill stops the production of needed progesterone. The immune system in the body attacks myelin, which is the fatty material that serves as a protective coating on the bodies nerves.

Some medicines have been found to provide relief for muscle spasm symptoms. There is no known cure for MS. The latest trend toward cleansing may be a source for relief as there is some evidence that a toxic environment may lead to the immune systems attack on the nervous system in the body. Those who are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at this time can only expect minor relief from their symptoms. As in heart disease and other major illnesses, inflammation is once again a major factor. Food allergies can play a major role in setting up the inflammation in the body.

The More You Know

2008-03-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

A story broadcast on “Today”, January 9, 2008, highlighted Richard M. Cohen, an author and suffer of MS, for 20 years. He brings stories of the struggles of many MS suffers, and the different diagnosis’ that are under the name of Multiple Sclerosis and how they cope daily.

The Mayo Clinic states the most important things for coping are, keeping your lifestyle as close to normal as possible, connecting openly with family and friends, continuing hobbies that you enjoy and have the ability to still perform.

Most all of the adverse effects on a family and MS suffer are due to fear of the unknown. Be sure to include any family in doctors’ visits, and learning everything they can about your particular type of MS.

Being open and honest in every way with your entire family, including children is important. Not having conversations can lead to confusion and anxious feelings, including but not limited to guilt, anger, embarrassment, resentment. Things to watch out for especially in your child and family’s behavior are depression, poor behavior all around, taking on an older family roll yet being a child, just to mention a few. This further digresses to lying about your condition to others, denial, high-anxiety, and nightmares. Reducing stress to the person affected by MS is a high priority, and with this open discussion within the family unit, adverse effects, are less likely.

A great start to information comes from your doctor, local Multiple sclerosis support groups, and online at the National MS Society website.

March 10-17, 2008 is MS Awareness Week; see how you can get involved to support your local support group or help a friend or neighbor be more aware of the multiple sclerosis treatments available.

Tips for Managing Symptoms

2008-03-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

Every individual is solely responsible for their own health and well-being, this includes those with incurable diseases such as MS. While the symptoms, flare-ups and side effects of MS may be more than an inconvenience, there are some simple ways to help you manage your symptoms in your day-to-day life.

Vision Difficulties:

While there are medications that can help with these difficulties, there are also ways to help that have no side effects.

*Wear a patch over one eye or if you wear glasses, try covering one lens with opaque tape.

*Purchase a magnifying light for your desk or workspace. Be sure to use it during computer use especially.

*Check into the different "low-vision" enhancement products for computer monitors and television screens.

*Label your refrigerator shelves, pantry shelves and organized toiletries with large words for easier finding.

Muscle Weakness:

This is often one of the most frustrating and inconvenient of the symptoms. It can prevent you from walking and even from doing simple daily tasks like getting a drink. You should seek out a physical therapist if you don't have one already, they can give you strengthening exercises that will help. Also, don't feel that assistant equipment such as canes, scooters and wheelchairs are beneath you. This equipment can mean the difference to having a higher quality of life.

Numbness:

While numbness itself is not debilitating it can be bothersome and sometimes even painful if it lasts for a prolonged period of time. You should be extremely cautious around sources of heat such as fire and stoves. When experiencing numbness you may want to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist as well. The stimulation of the massage has proven effective in relieving symptoms for a short period of time.

Helping People and Families Cope with Multiple Sclerosis

2008-03-22T20:58:00.000-07:00

What is multiple sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system. It is usually known to attack young adults and has a greater percentage of effecting women. The symptoms normally appear before the age of 40 striking approximately 300,000 Americans. Once a symptom is diagnosed it is very unpredictable as to the severity of the course it will take. While some can suffer a permanent disability, others can live their lives with only mild symptoms.

One of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis is chronic fatigue. Research has proven that multiple sclerosis can be hereditary and has a history of running in families, although it is not uncommon for it to affect an individual with no family history of multiple sclerosis. Other commonly known symptoms are numbness and tingling in the arms or legs. Many individuals can also experience muscle spasms, color blindness, loss of vision, equilibrium problems, irregular urination, sexual dysfunction, sensitivity to heat, and memory loss.

There are many ways to cope with multiple sclerosis. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis there are many options available to assist in dealing with the disease. Exercise may be one of the best remedies, despite previous beliefs. Although aerobic exercise is known to be very therapeutic, one might also consider yoga, light weight lifting, and swimming as well as attending physical therapy. Non-drug related forms of treatment are all very crucial components in dealing with multiple sclerosis.

Other ways to help assist when dealing with the disease is to make sure the individual gets plenty of rest. If they are a smoker it is highly recommended to make every effort to quit. A balanced diet is very important as well. Unfortunately there is no way to conquer MS. But an individual can reduce the way it affects their life by finding ways to control specific symptoms. It is important to keep a positive attitude and do not look at the disease as a “battle”. Instead, they should try and keep a positive attitude by surrounding themselves with a strong network of friends and family.

MSActiveSource.com; One Stop Support

2008-03-21T20:58:00.000-07:00

MS Active Source is an online community that offers unparalleled support for anyone whose life has been touched by MS. Whether you are the one who received the diagnosis or someone you care about has been diagnosed, you will find support and information on this website that is simply invaluable.

The best part of MS Active Source has to be the fact that they are a free community for people who have been touched by MS on any level. The web site is brought to the public by Biogen Idec and Elan, the makers of leading MS products. Everyone who works on and for this site takes pride in being able to offer support services online and offline. ENewsletters, live educational programs and teleconferences will bring you up to date on all the latest scientific research and lifestyle information.

This site puts out a strong message and supplies members and others with uncompromised support, always. The entire purpose for this website is to offer advice, information and support for anyone whose life is touched by MS. Whether you have been living with MS for years, you have just been diagnosed or you care about someone with an MS diagnosis, this is the place to go. You will always find comprehensive resources and links to the most up-to-date information. You can find listings of upcoming live and in-person events happening near you, as well as teleconferences you may attend from your home.

No matter what your personal needs are, you will find information and support at www.MSActiveSource.com.

Adopt Healthy Living Habits

2008-03-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

Coping with your MS may actually become a little easier if you are willing to adopt and incorporate some healthy living habits. We understand the symptoms: vision problems, muscle atrophy, joint discomfort, memory loss and many others. This diagnosis can be challenging for you and your loved ones, to say the least. These challenges effect how you live your day-to-day life, but this diagnosis does not have to mean the end of living a full and happy life.

There are techniques and lifestyle changes that can assist you in coping with your MS. The first step is, of course, the diagnosis itself. The diagnosis, while presenting many new challenges, also allows you to understand the symptoms you have been experiencing and reassures you that you are not crazy. Once you have the official diagnosis, talk to your doctor about the many treatment methods that can slow the progression of the disease and help ease the multitude of symptoms. These treatments are also capable of reducing relapses and they help you live more comfortably in general.

Exercise, diet and a focus on relieving stress are all major factors in your coping mechanisms for this disease. Incorporating healthy living habits is one of the most effective ways we have, at the moment, for symptom control. By eating a low-fat, well-balanced diet you will be equipping your body to handle many of the battles ahead. You should eliminate junk food completely, save for a treat now and then. You should be replacing the junk with more fresh fruits and vegetables.

You should exercise as much as possible, stretching before hand so that your body can adequately "warm-up". By exercising more you will be combating fatigue and muscle strain by increasing your energy levels and flexibility. Talk to your doctor about further treatment options and always consult him or her before any major life style changes.

Study For Yourself

2008-03-19T20:57:00.000-07:00

When a person has been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis one thing is certain: change is inevitable. For friends and family members this is especially true. Even the alterations you make to your lifestyle initially to accommodate won’t be permanent. As your loved one’s needs morph into other needs, you will need to be flexible in order to truly be supportive. It can be frustrating when the things you did to help yesterday aren’t as helpful today, but being able to adjust to the changes of Multiple Sclerosis is one of the most important ways that you can make the condition easier for your loved one.

There are a number of programs that family members can be a part of in order to learn about coping mechanisms for dealing with Multiple Sclerosis. But some experts have speculated that because the symptoms of the condition vary drastically from person to person, sometimes it is actually more beneficial for family members to do their learning on their own. By studying your loved one you may be able to pick up on subtle signs that things are likely to change. These signs can’t be learned in a pamphlet or a book, they come from the experience of going through the changes with your loved one.

As a family member, it is important to find out as much as you can about the condition of Multiple Sclerosis through your family doctor, specialist, the internet or Multiple Sclerosis organizations. These can be valuable tools. However, what will help you anticipate the inevitable changes that are heading your way is to practice self-directed learning based on your loved one’s individual experiences.

New Treatment Helps Thousands

2008-03-18T20:57:00.000-07:00

Patients who suffer from multiple sclerosis may have a glimmer of hope. A drug that has been used to treat alcoholism and drug addiction has shown efficacy in managing and slowing the symptoms of MS. Naltrexone has been used by many rehabilitation clinics, but now MS patients who have taken it at low doses are reporting more success with the drug than any of the other medications available.

Low dose naltrexone (LDN) is being prescribed to a select number of patients throughout the country that request it as treatment. Doctors in the UK have started importing it from the United States for the sole purpose of treating MS. Why does a medication that boosts immune functions work so well in treating a disease that is believed to have an overactive immune system? The exact answer is unknown. The reason LDN hasn't become a mainstream treatment for MS lies in the fact that there aren't sufficient clinical trials to prove its effectiveness. It was first discovered by Dr. Bernard Bahari, a New York City neurologist, who used it to treat diseases like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and MS. Eventually, people caught on by word of mouth and the internet, and anecdotal evidence surmounted that supported LDN.

A group of "success story" patients gathered enough money to have a clinical trial performed at the University of California in San Francisco, and talks are being held at conventions on the use of this supposed miracle drug. Some claim that LDN hasn't received the support it deserves because the patent on naltrexone has expired, leaving no room for profit for the pharmaceutical companies that would manufacture it. Whatever the case is, LDN does seem to be doing something positive for patients with MS. Hopefully future clinical trials will uncover the mystery behind its success.

Coping with Multiple Sclerosis

2008-03-17T20:50:00.000-07:00

Multiple sclerosis has a multitude of symptoms; some of these include vision loss, aphasia, dizziness, fatigue, sensations in the arms & legs, mental issues and even motor skill problems. You may have many other symptoms that are not listed here.

With Multiple Sclerosis come adjustments. First, as hard as it is, you need to accept that MS is going to change your life and the way that you currently live it. Second, take your medication as directed by your doctor. Third, eat a well balanced diet with appropriate exercises. Fourth, see a trained licensed counselor or therapist. Fifth, even if your diagnosis is unquestionable get a second opinion; see an MS specialist as they have the most current information and options for you.

Being a caregiver with someone that has MS can be rewarding and stressful. As the caretaker you will have your own stress to cope with. Stress will need to be taken care of as it does affect others. You need to ask for help - no one will know how to help you unless you ask. Rely on your local community programs; many will have meals on wheels program and also youth volunteers; with many more plans available. Research, this is very important as the more you know how MS works the better you will be able to understand. Stay healthy with whomever you are caring for, this will also provide great support for him/her as well. Except that changes will be occurring some minor, some drastic. Last be very flexible and realistic.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis

2008-03-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

The diagnosis of a major disease such as Multiple Sclerosis can be a terrifying thing, both for the patient and for his or her family. While it is definitely a serious illness, and should be approached with the proper gravity, it's important to remember that those diagnosed with MS can lead normal lifespans and remain active. Through careful management, you can ensure that your loved one lives as normal a life as possible.

One of the hardest things to cope with about Multiple Sclerosis is its many and varied symptoms. Depending on what part of the central nervous system is affected, they can range from weakness and tremors to nerve malfunction to cognitive problems. The neurological effects can interfere with normal mobility, so it's important to give your loved one as much assistance as possible. While advanced stages of the disease can require use of a cane, walker, or wheelchair, even early cases can benefit from rearranging furniture to ensure clear, unobstructed paths.

Side effects of MS medication treatments can be taxing on your loved one. Many of the therapies can induce flu-like symptoms, so it's important to allow the patient sufficient rest after treatment. Many families move injection times to bedtime, to allow the patient to sleep through the worst of the effect.

Finally, keeping good health is key to slowing the progress of the disease. Ensuring your loved one gets a balanced, healthy diet, as well as appropriate exercise can vastly increase energy levels and improve their overall outlook.

Multiple Sclerosis and Family

2008-03-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

Multiple Sclerosis affects 2.5 million people worldwide. It is chronic, progressive and although treatable up to a point, there is no cure. It usually strikes women more often than men and pops up between the ages of 20 and 40 years old.

Since MS often strikes when people are already well into adulthood, it can wreak havoc on your family. While you are dealing with the fear, anger and uncertainty of having the disease, your family may also be dealing with the same things. It doesn’t have to be that way however. Even if your life is turned upside down by a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis you can still be an active and functioning member of your family. The key is to slow down and allow your family to help you when you need it.

It is true that your relationships with family members may change. Since you will have to go from a care giver role to being the one cared for, there may be some hard times in the first few months. You will have to understand your family’s feelings as well. They are upset and frustrated for the same reasons you are so communication is necessary. If you need help, let them know. Conversely, listen to them and let them voice any feelings they have. If everyone remains open and honest, everything will run more smoothly.

Your family will have to thoroughly understand your disease so take them along on doctor’s visits so they can learn the facts and ask questions. If you and your family can stand as a united front against MS, you will be able to ensure you have a normal, happy life.

There's Light at the End of the Tunnel

2008-03-14T19:59:00.000-07:00

Some people don’t realize that even in the darkest moments of life that there are opportunities to pick yourself up off the ground. Imagine the news and the impact it would have on you if you were diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis. MS is a disease whose origins are elusive yet to this day. MS has a slough of side effects that are indicative of its presence that can include slurred speech, weakness, and even problems with your vision. All that aside, there is still an upside to this seemingly devastating news.

There are numerous non-profit organizations that offer counseling services, treatments, adult day-care services, and who dedicate themselves to finding effect treatments to treat MS. Even when you and your family are down and out take comfort in the fact that many of these nonprofit organizations often host numerous fund raising events to fuel the research and services that they provided. They provide these services for individuals and their families whom are diagnosed with MS to aid in better lifestyles. Most people may not realize that there is so much help and support available to them, but keep your resolve.

Research has shown that people who are diagnosed with MS can still live as long as other people. So it is not the end of the world, just a different take on life. When you or your family are feeling down take comfort in the events hosted to support the fight against MS. Attend the walks, bike rides, and even marathons hosted for hope of finding a cure. Take comfort in the turn outs to these events with the hundreds to thousands of people that are there with you to support you and your family in your battle. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

What Will You Do?

2008-03-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

There is a growing movement within the MS community and the National MS Society is leading the way with its latest campaign aimed at finding a cure for this life changing disease. "What Will You Do" will be running during MS Awareness Week, March 10th through the 17th. This week will unite numerous MS organizations and the people coping with MS in their everyday lives.

This event is an opportunity to spotlight the many exciting advances made over the past year in treating and understanding this disease. Did you know that someone is diagnosed with MS every hour? "What Will You Do" is a seven day challenge for anyone who is passionate about finding a cure and educating others about the disease. The challenge includes several things that any one can do during this seven day period and afterward as well.

*Email your congress members, informing them of the critical need for increased research funding.

*Signing up yourself, your family and your friends for the numerous Walk and Bike MS events.

*Go orange and raise awareness. Orange is the color associated with MS and the National MS Society. You can find hats, T-shirts, window clings and much more at MS store online.

*You can also share your personal stories on the website.

*Make a donation, every little bit helps towards finding a cure.

There are many more things that every one can do to help support this invaluable resource for those who have been diagnosed or care for someone who has been diagnosed with MS. The National MS Society is dedicated to advancing research and creating and supporting programs that help individuals live the highest quality lives with MS.

MS Diagnosis... Now What?

2008-03-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

You have just been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Now what do you do? You feel a tingle of fear from not knowing what having multiple sclerosis might mean for you , for your future, for your family. You have so many unanswered questions. How do you cope? Where do you begin to find the strength to face the unknown of this disease?

Good news! You are not alone. Help is out there, just waiting for you to tap into it. There are two national groups, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Multiple Sclerosis Society of America, that have contact information on the web. Their websites have facts, articles, links to support groups, and information on treatment and research.

You can have help and contact from those who are coping with the same disease. Jooly’s Joint is a place to meet people with MS online, and in person. Not only is it a wed site, but is an actual place where people can come together, have coffee, chat, do yoga, and be there for each other. You do not have to be isolated in your MS experience. There is a resource center that publishes a magazine called New Pathways which features articles on the latest treatments and therapies.

You may have choices to make about what kind of injection therapy might benefit you most. From many online resources, you will find information detailing the process of obtaining an accurate ms diagnosis, explaining ms symptoms, the latest ms statistics, ms treatment, therapies and what is being done about a cure. For your family and friends there are links and articles to inform, and support them as they learn to cope with all that this diagnosis may mean. Treatments may include herbal therapy that are purported to relieve symptoms. At some point you may find yourself in remission. You may need a plan for dealing with a possible relapse. There are articles that can be found that help you to prevent that from happening. So even though the news is disturbing, there is hope that you can lead a normal, healthy life. Help and support is just a click away.

When Memory Fails

2008-03-11T16:22:00.001-07:00

Many people assume that Multiple Sclerosis affects issues of coordination, increases levels of fatigue, and creates balance problems. Indeed, these are some of the ways that patients can feel the effects of MS, but there are also other areas in which symptoms can develop as well. Because Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system and the brain, there are cognitive problems that can arise as well.

Areas of cognitive function that can be impacted are memory, abstract thinking, attention, word finding, or processing information. At times the signs of these problems are subtle, and cases can range from being mild to severe. When patients are suffering from mild cases of impairment they might be aware of the problems, however when cases become more severe they may be unaware that there is problem just as some stroke and dementia patients are oblivious to their impairments. As family members, it is important that you recognize the signs of cognitive dysfunction and are able to help your loved one find positive ways to deal with these problems as well.

Encourage your loved one to be patient with his or herself and demonstrate patience yourself. When memory loss becomes a factor, help your loved one become more organized so that he or she isn't forced to rely on their faulty memory as heavily. Sometimes wearing a beeper can help to remind them to take medication, for example. Also, make sure that the rest of family stays organized. Have a spot for everything, especially regularly used items like car keys, and make sure that everything always goes back to its spot. Also, encourage your loved one to rest, especially before and after a particularly mentally strenuous task. Be understanding and encourage your loved one to stay calm when cognitive difficulties arise, generally the mental haze will lift after a period of time.

Questions That May Arise

2008-03-10T16:22:00.000-07:00

If you are trying to help someone cope with Multiple Sclerosis, you may want to be aware of some of the questions that a person may have about their own disease. Once you can fully understand where this person is coming from, you will then be able to figure out what you can do to help. Though simply listening is a good idea, sometimes having the answers to some difficult questions can also be quite useful.

The diagnosis of MS is always a shock to those that are being diagnosed. Immediately, questions will arise about the disease, and about life in general. Some of the most common questions that people with MS ask are: what happens now? Why am I scared? What can I do? Is there a cure? What about my life? If you are acting as a caregiver for this person, or if you are simply trying to help them out, you should know the following answers: most people go on with their daily lives; being scared is entirely normal; there is no cure; there are things that can help; and life will simply continue. The best way that you can help a person with MS is to ensure that you are around when an attack gets worse.

If the person you know with MS has a family, helping out with simple chores is a good idea. Often, adults cannot make meals and do daily tasks, so simply offering to bring over a casserole is a great gesture. Though dealing with MS is entirely difficult, life can simply progress in a normal manner. Should you be willing to help a family affected by MS, ask what you can do to help... often, you will be given a list of tasks that really will make a difference. While there is no cure for MS, most people keep on living life the way that they always have... and with a little bit of support from you, this will become easier.

More MS Exercises

2008-03-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

Simple exercises are good to start with, but MS patients should gradually ramp up the difficulty to keep their body functional. It can literally be a matter of life and death. Healthy muscles are crucial to maintaining regular body function. Drugs and irregular physical therapy sessions are no substitute for a consistently pursued home exercise program.

If leg function is still present, try the one-legged knee pull. Lie down flat on an exercise mat. Bring one knee as close to the chest as possible without feeling pain, guiding it with both hands. Try to hold it in place for one to two seconds, and then return it to resting position. The other leg should remain still. Repeat this between three and five times for each leg.

The most common MS muscle symptoms are pain, stiffness and spasms, particularly just after waking up or early in the morning. Painkillers and anti-spasm medication can be helpful, but so can breathing exercises and paying attention to posture - particularly important as MS sufferers generally spend most of their days sitting down in wheelchairs or otherwise.

To encourage deeper breathing, try to raise the arms to a crossed position behind your head, and hold them there for several seconds while making deep breaths. If this exercises challenges the patient too much, place pillows under the arms to raise them higher, giving the ribcage and diaphragm more room to expand with each breath. Breathing in through the nose prevents more dust and other contaminants from affecting the body, and it is easier to get a constant breathing rhythm than through mouth breathing.

Intimacy with Multiple Sclerosis

2008-03-08T16:21:00.000-08:00

Many people with Multiple Sclerosis have problems and anxiety when it comes to intimacy. Some may even eschew intimacy altogether but it doesn’t have to come to such drastic actions. The problems that arise are not only physical but also mental and emotional. These problems can all be solved or at least minimized more simply than you may think.

The hardest part may be bringing the subject up in the first place. Often, people with MS are ashamed and do not talk to their partner when they are having problems. It may be easier for you to write down your problems and feelings and then give the note to your partner. This way you are able to broach the topic without the initial embarrassment of a frank sexual discussion. You may be surprised to learn that your partner is more understanding of your problems and is very willing to help you overcome them. Once the initial contact has been made, you will need to continue the discussion and get into more detail about the issues. Often, people with MS have sensations that range from pleasurable to painful but if your partner is unaware of this, they may continue to do it. You have to keep the lines of communication open before, during and after intimacy to ensure everyone enjoys themselves.

If you suffer from physical problems due to MS like bladder or bowel control issues, you can keep accidents at bay by maintaining a eating schedule that allows you to pinpoint when you need to use the bathroom. You can simply plan your intimacy after those times to avoid accidents. Of course there may still be the occasional slip up but if you are with a loving and understand partner with whom you are open and honest, these minor episodes should not matter. If your partner makes a big deal about these things, you may want to search for someone who is more compassionate and understanding.

MS Exercises

2008-03-07T16:21:00.000-08:00

It's important for sufferers of MS to stay on top of their health. There are a number of exercises designed for MS patients to help them maintain their physical and neurological functioning. Although during periods when the disease is advancing it might be nearly impossible to exercise, during remission periods it is important to jump on it to maximize the functional gains.

Posture is something that MS sufferers generally have significant problems maintaining. Improving their ability to sit up straight helps them to fit into normal society. Good posture means sitting up with a straight back, with your shoulders relaxed. The neck should be straight, and the face should be forward. The knees should be bent at a 90 degree angle, and the feet should be flat against the ground and facing forward. For MS sufferers, keeping good posture is good practice. As an exercise, encourage them to maintain good posture and to speak while in that position. Start with simple exclamations like "Hello"! and then move on to natural conversations while keeping good posture. This is especially important if they spend most of their time in a wheelchair.

Occasionally standing is also a good exercise, if they are up to it. The motion should be as natural as possible, coming from a sitting position. They should stand for as long as it is comfortable. If need be, work as a spotter - be ready for them if they are about to fall. Try to do this several times throughout the day to prevent the legs from atrophying.

Multiple Sclerosis: What is it? Where's help?

2008-03-06T20:13:00.000-08:00

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic degenerative disease of the central nervous system. The body apparently attacks itself by destroying myelin, the fatty tissue that covers nerve cells. When demyelination occurs, it leaves hardened tissue in the brain, eyes, and spinal cord. The disease usually strikes young adults between the ages of twenty and forty years of age although the onset has been known to occur before age fifteen and after age sixty. In early onset MS women are twice as likely as men to be affected. The disease is also unpredictable with consequences ranging from benign to completely disabling. A MS patient may have one day of complete exhaustion precede a day of feeling well.

Multiple sclerosis is usually a slow progressing autoimmune disease. There can be a range of symptoms develop over time: partial or complete paralysis, jerking muscle tremors, weakness, numbness, visions problems, speech problems, depression, and also a loss of bladder and bowel control. There are approximately 200 new cases diagnosed in the United States each week. There is some connection with MS and living in a temperate climate. Canada, the United Kingdom, and northern Europe also have more instances of multiple sclerosis.

There are many international organizations that are committed to the eradication of MS. In the United States there are several large organizations that provide MS patients and their families with information regarding research, treatment, support groups and much more. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, The Multiple Sclerosis Associations of America, and the MS Awareness Foundation all have online sites to investigate.

Dealing with the Diagnosis

2008-03-05T20:12:00.000-08:00

Having a loved one diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) can be a devastating blow for any family, forcing everyone to come to grips with what it means to be diagnosed with an incurable disease. MS changes lives forever, and the realization can be too much for some people to handle, prompting denial in many patients and families. After all, it's far easier to merely deny the reality than deal with the intense feelings of shock, anger, confusion, and frustration that can accompany the illness.

Once the diagnosis is accepted, many families go through a grieving process. It's a natural reaction under the circumstances. It's important for everyone to talk through these feelings of grief. While the grieving process can occur at different times for different people, it's beneficial if the entire family goes through it together. It will greatly enhance everyone's chances of moving through the grief and getting on with recovery. Doing it together will foster a sense of hope and unity integral to the healing process.

Familiar family roles can be completely reversed in the wake of an MS diagnosis. For instance, mothers who were once the primary caregivers will now need someone to take care of them, increasing the burden placed on husbands and children. This sudden transition can lead to unexpected conflicts and emotions, requiring patience, understanding, and superb communication to make it work.

Coping with MS

2008-03-04T20:12:00.000-08:00

As you might imagine with any chronic disease, living with multiple sclerosis can cause a roller coaster of emotions, both for the person struggling with the disease as well as for friends and family. But a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis doesn’t have to mean the end of the world, or the end of all “normalcy” in your life. Here are some suggestions to help you even out some of the ups and downs of living with this debilitating disease. First, maintain normal daily activities to the best of your ability. Stay connected with friends and family; everyone needs a support system. Lastly, continue to engage in hobbies and things that you enjoy and are able to do.

If multiple sclerosis impairs your ability to do the activities that you love, talk with your doctor about possible options to get around the day-to-day obstacles. Keep in mind that your physical health can directly impact your mental health. Feelings and emotions such as denial, anger, and frustration are not uncommon when you learn that life has dealt you something so unexpected and painful. Therapists and behavioral psychologists are trained professionals who can help you put things into perspective. They can also teach you coping skills and relaxation techniques that may be helpful. Sometimes something as simple as joining a support group can dramatically impact the way you deal with the disease and its effects. You can share your experiences and feelings with other people who are in a similar situation.

Many chronic illnesses, including multiple sclerosis, are associated with an increased risk of depression. Suffering from depression doesn’t mean you have failed to cope, but may indicate a disruption in the body’s neurochemistry that can be helped with appropriate treatment. If you have a chronic illness such as MS, there is no denying that it will drastically affect your life. But the way you choose to live from day to day will allow you to determine your own quality of life and not let your MS control you.