How to Prevent MS Flare-Ups

 

To try to prevent a flare-up from happening:

Take meds as directed. The drugs your doctor prescribes help slow your MS from getting worse and help prevent relapses. If you have side effects, don't just stop taking them. One study found about 25% of MS patients who stopped taking their meds had a relapse. Certain meds for Crohn’s disease or rheumatoid arthritis may cause MS-like symptoms. So can drug interactions. Check with your doctor to see if there are meds you’re taking that could be interacting with one another, and if your current meds are right for you. 

Stay healthy. A bout of cold or flu can set off your MS symptoms. A bladder infection can trigger either a flare or a pseudo-flare, so the same advice applies. In fact, infections cause a third of MS flare-ups. Wash your hands with warm water and soap during the day, get your yearly flu shot, and avoid people who look sick. Stay hydrated. Try to avoid anyone who is sick. Make sure your food is cooked properly. Practice safe sex.Ask your doctor for other ways to avoid bladder infections, including vaccinations. Try to avoid anyone who is sick. Make sure your food is cooked properly. Practice safe sex.

Relax. In some people with MS, stress can bring on flare-ups. Find calmness with meditation, yoga, counseling, or anything else that's good for you and helps you unwind. In one study, MS patients reported their stress level was cut nearly in half after 6 weeks of yoga.

Rest. You won't feel well when you're worn out. Sleep problems are common in people with MS. Symptoms like pain and muscle spasms can keep you up at night. Some of the meds that treat MS interrupt sleep, too. Work with your doctor to get your symptoms under control so you can sleep. Adjust your meds if they keep you awake. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.

Stay cool. High temps may trigger a flare-up. If you’re affected negatively by warm surroundings, you should skip saunas, hot tubs, and hot showers and baths. Most of the time hot weather causes fatigue. Also, do what you can to avoid being outdoors on hot days. Take cool baths and/or run air conditioning. Try a hat or clothes that hold ice packs or frozen gel packs to stay comfortable. If you have an exercise goal, divide the time you exercise into smaller segments, with rest after each one.

Eat well. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They’re believed to fight inflammation. Also, get plenty of fiber and stay away from foods with saturated and trans fats. A healthy diet helps keep your immune system strong.

Steer clear of smoking. This is a major risk factor for flare-ups, and it can make your symptoms worse. If you smoke, your doctor can help you make a plan to stop.

From: WebMD