tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70230563849154530132024-03-13T23:19:57.418-07:00Mom's Story and Multiple SclerosisA discussion about Mom's Story and MS...mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.comBlogger313125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-53075540594348676402024-02-18T13:56:00.000-08:002024-02-18T13:56:31.191-08:00Disparities in Pregnancy Experiences Found Among Black, Hispanic/Latinx and White Women with MS<p> Researchers examined medical records of women with MS in the U.S. and
their pregnancy outcomes, comparing those of Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and
white people. They reported that those identifying as Black or
Hispanic/Latinx tended to enter pregnancy with higher levels of MS
disability and often with fewer health care resources. There were also
differences in types of delivery, birthweights, and socioeconomic
factors.<br />
<br />
<strong>Why Does This Matter?</strong> This study adds to the growing
awareness of health disparities and can inform ongoing efforts to
improve care for everyone living with MS.<br />
<br />
<strong>Background: </strong>MS is highly individualized, and disease
characteristics and a treatment plan are significant considerations in
family planning and pregnancies. These investigators wanted to
understand how healthcare inequities may impact the pregnancy outcomes
of Black and Hispanic/Latinex women. Previous studies suggest that
prenatal care is especially important for Black and Hispanic/Latinx
women because they tend to have higher risks of high blood pressure,
diabetes and other disorders that may complicate their pregnancies.<br />
<br />
<strong>Study Details:</strong> To better understand differences among
women with MS and their pregnancy experiences, Dr. Riley Bove
(University of California, San Francisco - UCSF), a National MS Society
Harry Weaver Scholar, and collaborators examined medical records from 9
MS centers in the U.S. They looked for pregnancy and delivery
information of women with MS or <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS/Types-of-MS/Clinically-Isolated-Syndrome-(CIS)">CIS</a>
(a single neurological event that indicates early MS) between 2010 and
2021. They analyzed 294 pregnancies that resulted in live births.<br />
<br />
<strong>Results: </strong>Some differences they found included:
</p><ul><li>Black and Hispanic/Latinx women tended to be younger than white
women when they became pregnant, and they had higher levels of MS
disability when they became pregnant.</li><li>More white women had private insurance, and more received an ultrasound exam at 14 weeks of pregnancy.</li><li>Black women had the highest rates of emergency cesarean deliveries,
and Hispanic/Latinx women had the fewest delivery complications.
Babies’ birth weights of both tended to be lower than those of white
women.</li></ul>
<br />
<strong>Comment:</strong> The authors suggest that some reasons for the
differences may include availability of transportation, types of
insurance, social support, and access to prenatal care. Studies like
these can inform ongoing efforts to improve care for everyone living
with MS.mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-20355313122733969482024-02-07T08:12:00.000-08:002024-02-07T08:12:38.359-08:00Why Do Women Have More Autoimmune Diseases? Study Points to X Chromosome<p> </p><div class="css-233int epjyd6m0"><p class="css-4anu6l e1jsehar1"><span class="byline-prefix">By </span><span class="css-1baulvz last-byline" itemprop="name"><a class="css-n8ff4n e1jsehar0" href="https://www.nytimes.com/by/carl-zimmer">Carl Zimmer</a></span></p></div><div data-testid="reading-time-module"><div class="css-3xqm5e"><time class="css-8blifj e16638kd2" datetime="2024-02-01T11:00:10-05:00"><span class="css-1sbuyqj e16638kd3">Feb. 1, 2024</span></time></div></div><div class="css-s99gbd StoryBodyCompanionColumn"><div class="css-53u6y8"><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Women
are much more likely than men to have their immune system turn against
them, resulting in an array of so-called autoimmune diseases, like lupus
and multiple sclerosis. A <a class="css-yywogo" href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2023.12.037" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">study</a> published on Thursday offers an explanation rooted in the X chromosome.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">The
research, published in the journal Cell, suggests that a special set of
molecules that act on the extra X chromosome carried by women can
sometimes confuse the immune system.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Independent
experts said that the molecules are unlikely to be the sole reason
autoimmune disease skews female. But if the results hold up in further
experiments, it might be possible to base new treatments on these
molecules, rather than on the current drugs that blunt the entire immune
system.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">“Maybe that’s a better strategy,” said Dr. Howard Chang, a geneticist and dermatologist at Stanford who led the new study.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Male
and female embryos carry 22 identical pairs of chromosomes. The 23rd
pair is different: Females carry two Xs, while males carry an X and a Y,
which lead to the development of male sex organs.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Each
chromosome holds genes that, when “switched on,” produce proteins to do
work inside of cells. You might expect that women, with two copies of
X, would make twice as many X proteins as men do. Instead, they produce
about the same level. That’s because one of the two <a class="css-yywogo" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/21/science/seeing-x-chromosomes-in-a-new-light.html" title="">X chromosomes is silenced</a>.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">A
molecule called Xist clings to the second X chromosome “like Velcro,”
Dr. Chang said. As hundreds of Xist molecules wrap themselves around the
X chromosome, they completely shut it down.</p><div></div><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Keeping one X silent is <a class="css-yywogo" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8977309/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" title="">crucial to women’s health</a>.
If a gene on the second X chromosome escapes Xist’s control, it will
result in an excess supply of proteins, some of which could be toxic.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">In
2015, it occurred to Dr. Chang that the silencing itself might also
have a downside. His epiphany occurred while he was preparing to take
his medical board exams to renew his license as a dermatologist.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">As
part of his studies, Dr. Chang had to brush up on autoimmune diseases,
memorizing the names of human proteins that can be targeted by a
misdirected immune system. When he looked at the list, he was surprised
to see some familiar names.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">When Dr.
Chang isn’t working as a dermatologist, he researches the X chromosome
in his lab. He noticed that many of the proteins involved in autoimmune
diseases also helped Xist silence the X chromosome.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">Maybe, Dr. Chang thought, that was no coincidence.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">The
new study emerged from years of research testing his hunch that Xist
molecules could cause autoimmune disease. He and his colleagues studied a
strain of mice in which the females are at high risk of the autoimmune
disease lupus, while the males never develop severe cases.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">The
researchers genetically engineered the male mice so that they, like the
females, produced Xist. “Once the male mice express Xist, they get much
worse levels of immune disease,” Dr. Chang said.</p><p class="css-at9mc1 evys1bk0">The
researchers also found that people with lupus or two other autoimmune
disorders had high levels of antibodies to Xist-related proteins in
their blood.</p></div><aside aria-label="companion column" class="css-ew4tgv"><br /></aside></div>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-20713767854356765632024-02-04T11:08:00.000-08:002024-02-04T11:08:48.773-08:00Researchers Seeking Black Americans with MS to Participate in Genetics Studies <p> <strong>Help Find Clues to the Cause and Treatment of MS</strong><br />
<br />
Researchers at the University of California MS Genetics Project are
studying how MS affects Black Americans with MS. The university
maintains a unique repository of DNA and other biological materials with
the support of the National MS Society.<br />
<br />
<strong>Why Does This Matter? </strong>New research shows that more
Black people are diagnosed with MS than previously thought and that they
may have a different disease course. Genes are known to play a role in
determining who is susceptible to developing MS and may also influence
the severity and course of the disease. Identifying the exact location
of MS genes could help determine who is at risk for developing the
disease and may provide clues to its cause, prevention, and better
treatment.<br />
Focusing on Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Northern European, and other
ancestral groups, and searching for what is common and what is different
in their DNA sequences may help identify the precise genetic variants
that contribute to MS.<br />
<br />
<strong>What is involved? It is not necessary to travel to San Francisco to participate in this study.</strong>
Once an individual has completed the initial online intake form and has
agreed to participate, they are emailed the links to two additional
online forms and sent a kit via express mail.<br />
<br />
The kit includes a consent form, a health information privacy form, and a
medical records release form. The kit also includes everything
necessary for the blood draw, which can be taken to your local Quest
Diagnostics Lab, where the blood can be drawn and then returned in a
prepaid envelope to the UCSF MS Genetics Lab. There is no cost to the
study participants. <br />
<br />
Individuals recently diagnosed with MS living in the San Francisco Bay
Area are also eligible to participate in an MRI study to identify
relationships between genetic profiles and tissue damage in the brain
and spinal cord.<br />
<br />
<strong>Please note: this study cannot enroll international participants at this time.</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Contact:</strong> <br />
To participate or request additional information, please complete this brief <a href="https://redcap.ucsf.edu/surveys/?s=849FYFLPA7">intake survey</a>.<br />
<br />
OR you may contact the UCSF DNA directly:<br />
Clinical Research Coordinator<br />
UCSF Multiple Sclerosis Genetic Susceptibility Project<br />
675 Nelson Rising Lane, Suite 235A, Box 3206<br />
San Francisco, CA 94158<br />
Email: <a href="mailto:msdb@ucsf.edu">msdb@ucsf.edu</a><br />
Website: <a href="https://msgenetics.ucsf.edu/">https://msgenetics.ucsf.edu/</a></p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-5754559430704664872023-12-30T09:29:00.000-08:002023-12-30T09:29:41.577-08:00Promising Experimental Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis<p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p>What’s on the horizon for people with <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/what-is-multiple-sclerosis">multiple sclerosis</a>?
Dedicated doctors, scientists, and volunteers are working today to answer that
question and find tomorrow’s breakthroughs.</p>
<p>Several experimental treatments are being studied to figure out whether
they’re safe and effective for people with different kinds of multiple
sclerosis (MS) and at different points in their journey.</p>
<p>The main research goals are to find new ways to stop MS from getting worse
or even to reverse nerve damage and the disability that can come with it.
Eventually, the hope is to end MS forever.</p>
<p>That’s a tall order for sure, but progress is being made in laboratories and
medical centers all around the world.</p>
<h2 id="1-1"><section>Resetting Your Immune System</section></h2>
<p>When you have multiple sclerosis, your immune system attacks your <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/what-is-nervous-system">central nervous system</a>. So
what if doctors could flush out your “bad” immune system and give you a new
one? That’s the basic idea behind a type of <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/cancer/multiple-myeloma/bone-marrow-transplants">bone marrow transplant</a>
called autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHSCT).</p>
<p></p><section>How does this work? Thrower explains it this way:<p></p>
<ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">Immature
stem cells made in your bone marrow are removed from your blood.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">These
cells are sort of cloned and many copies are made.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">The bad
immune system’s “hard drive” is wiped clean with high-dose chemotherapy.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">The immune
system is rebooted with the fresh stem cells that don’t attack your
nervous system.</li></ul>
<p>
Since they’re your cells, they can’t be rejected. But it will take your body about
a month to replace your immune system. That puts you at risk of potentially
life-threatening infections, including COVID-19 and others.</p>
<p>The procedure is not new but not approved by the Food and Drug
Administration. It could be soon, says Ben Thrower, MD, a neurologist and
medical director of the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center in
Atlanta and senior medical advisor for the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.</p>
<p>In fact, the National Institutes of Health is sponsoring a clinical trial
comparing AHSCT against the most widely used and effective treatments for
relapsing-remitting MS.</p>
<p>
</p></section><section>Even though AHSCT isn’t approved, experts know a lot about
the best candidates for this ambitious therapy. It’s most successful in people
with aggressive relapsing-remitting MS who are under age 50, according to
Thrower.<p></p>
<p>This is the same procedure actress Selma Blair had in 2019, he adds. Her
journey is the subject of a 2021 documentary called <i>Introducing, Selma
Blair.</i></p>
<p>Talk to your neurologist about whether you should try AHSCT. Many Americans
go to other countries for this treatment.</p>
<h2></h2></section><b>Other New Stem Cell Approaches
</b><p>Doctors are exploring other stem cell approaches. One stem cell transplant
therapy being tried at Atlanta’s Shepherd Center is intended to treat all types
of MS: relapsing-remitting, primary progressive, and secondary progressive. The
procedure uses what’s called mesenchymal stem cells. It may be able to repair
damage and reverse disability.</p>
<p>Mesenchymal cells are more mature than embryonic stem cells, which have a
better ability to repair but are risky. “Once you put embryonic cells into the
body, you lose control and you can’t take them out once they’re in. They can
turn into cancerous cells or tissue you don’t want them to develop into,”
Thrower says.</p>
<p></p><section>“Embryonic stem cells are like a genie in a
bottle, you don’t know whether you’ll get a good genie or a bad genie,” he
says.<p></p>
<p>Mesenchymal cells offer more control and are safer to use. The trial in
Atlanta infuses these cells into volunteers through a vein. Unlike AHSCT, it
doesn’t destroy the immune system.</p>
<p>But the jury is still out on this approach. It’s only in the first phase of
research, so it’s years away from becoming an approved treatment.</p>
</section>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-13364911621311234682023-12-25T06:52:00.000-08:002023-12-25T06:52:02.904-08:00Ways To Help Advance MS Research<p> Researchers are committed to finding solutions for everyone affected by
MS — the very people who hold the key to the answers. Without
participants in research studies, MS research would come to a
standstill.<br />
<br />
People with MS, and sometimes family members, can help advance MS research by:
</p><ul><li>responding to <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Surveys">surveys</a> online</li><li>sharing their voices and ideas through <a href="https://narcoms.org/">NARCOMS</a> and <a href="https://www.iconquerms.org/">iConquerMS<sup>TM</sup></a>, organizations that amass volunteer-submitted information</li><li>volunteering for <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Participate-in-Clinical-Trials">clinical trials</a> and other studies</li><li><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Participate-in-Genetic-Studies">donating DNA</a> from saliva and blood samples</li><li>arranging for brain or spinal cord tissue donation to a <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Donate-to-Tissue-Banks">tissue bank</a>;
this type of donation is incredibly valuable and truly appreciated by
all who are involved in moving toward a world free of MS. Blood samples
also can be donated for use in MS research studies.</li></ul><p>
Assess each opportunity and make an informed decision before agreeing to
participate — understand the possible benefits and risks. See our <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Programs-and-Services/Resources/Participating-in-Clinical-Trials-For-People-with-M">Guide to Participating in Clinical Trials</a>.<br />
<br />
Everyone can <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Get-Involved">get involved</a> to support <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Research-We-Fund">research investment</a>, or advocate so that Congress provides <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/researchadvocacy">funding for MS research</a> and supports other efforts such as <a href="https://secure.nationalmssociety.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=3097">understanding incidence and prevalence</a>. </p><p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Participate
in a Clinical Trial</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Clinical trials help
to determine if treatments and other interventions are safe and effective.
Studies enrolling diverse populations are monitored to ensure that the rights
and safety of all participants are protected. Without the participation of
people with MS, it would be impossible to develop new and better solutions.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Participate-in-Clinical-Trials"><span style="color: blue;">Learn More</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Surveys
and Other Research Studies</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Conducted by
investigators seeking to answer scientific or health policy questions about MS,
or by pharmaceutical or medical device companies aiming to develop or improve
products for people with MS.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Surveys"><span style="color: blue;">Participate Now</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Participate
in Genetic Studies</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">By donating DNA from
blood samples, you are helping research that could lead to ending MS forever.
Learn more about genetic studies and how you can participate.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Participate-in-Genetic-Studies"><span style="color: blue;">Give DNA</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Donate
to Tissue Banks</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">People living with MS
may hold the key to finding a cure. Learn more about tissue banks and donating
brain and spinal cord tissue for researchers studying MS.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Donate-to-Tissue-Banks"><span style="color: blue;">Read More</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">COVID-19
Studies Recruiting People with MS</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Explore opportunities
for participation in research studies seeking to understand the impacts of
COVID-19 and how the vaccine can affect people living with MS. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/COVID-19-Studies-Recruiting-People-with-MS"><span style="color: blue;">Learn More</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Research
Studies: Newly Diagnosed with MS</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If you are new to MS,
you have the chance to help advancements in MS research. Discover studies
researching the earliest stages of MS looking for participants.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Research/Participate-in-Research-Studies/Research-Studies-Newly-Diagnosed-with-MS"><span style="color: blue;">Learn More</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://narcoms.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">ImageImage</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://narcoms.org/"><span style="color: blue;">NARCOMS Patient Registry</span></a></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Register as a willing
MS research participant to facilitate multicenter studies. Initiated by the
Consortium of MS Centers.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://narcoms.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Visit
NARCOMS</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.iconquerms.org" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">ImageImage</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.iconquerms.org"><span style="color: blue;">iConquerMS™ Online
Portal</span></a></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Share information and
ideas for research topics important to you. Each contribution and suggestion
brings us closer to faster diagnoses and improved treatments.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.iconquerms.org" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Visit
iConquerMS™</span></a></span></p>
<p> </p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-48734244432236071272023-11-03T16:18:00.002-07:002023-11-03T16:18:28.995-07:00MS in the Fall and Winter: 5 Ways to Stay Well<p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">From: <i>WebMD</i> <br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">After the hot, humid
days of summer, the colder temperatures in the fall and winter can come as a
shock to our bodies. If you have a condition like <span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">multiple sclerosis </span>(MS), cold temps can make your
symptoms worse and make you flat-out uncomfortable. You might find that it’s
harder to move your limbs, you get more muscle spasms than normal, or your
muscles feel tighter.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Doctors aren’t sure
why cold temperatures make MS symptoms worse. But they think that the condition
can alter the way you feel temperature changes. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If your symptoms get
worse in cold weather, it’s usually for a short time. A few simple tips can
help you stay comfortable and warm in the fall and winter.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Try to get moving.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> When you have MS, there may be times
when you find you can’t move around as easily as you’d like. When you can, try
to get some moderate physical activity like walking or stretching. It’ll help
you burn energy and warm up.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dress in layers.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> This will help keep you warm. And if
you get too hot, you can easily remove layers and stay comfortable. When it’s
very cold, it’s a good idea to wear hats, thick socks, or lined boots. This
will keep heat from escaping through your head or feet.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Keep your hands and
feet warm. </span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Doctors believe that
MS can cause blood vessels in your hands and feet to overreact to cold
temperatures. If you have MS, you may also be at risk for Raynaud’s phenomenon,
a condition in which your fingers and toes lose heat. They turn from white to
blue to red as the blood begins flowing again. You may feel numbness, pain, or
like someone is sticking you with pins and needles.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To protect your hands
and feet from the effects of the cold, try wearing hand warmers or using a
heating pad. But don’t place the heating pad directly on your skin. It could
cause burns or blisters.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Warm your insides</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. The easiest way to do this is to eat
hot meals like soup. You can also sip hot drinks like tea or coffee. Pour them
into an insulated mug to keep them warm longer and help limit your trips to the
kitchen.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Get some sunshine.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Even on crisp fall and cold winter
days, who doesn’t love the feeling of sunshine on their shoulders? Step outside
and soak up some rays. You’ll warm up, and you’ll help your body make some
much-needed vitamin D. An added benefit? A little sunshine might help boost
your mood.</span></p>
mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-84423758845384861202023-10-23T08:19:00.000-07:002023-10-23T08:19:50.195-07:00What to Know About Lesions and MS <div class="content__container content__container--html"><div class="content__html"><p>Multiple
sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease. For people with MS, the immune
system mistakenly attacks the protective covering on nerve fibers. This
covering is called myelin.<sup>1</sup></p><p>The attacks by the immune
system lead to the formation of lesions in the central nervous system
(CNS). Lesions are areas of damage or inflammation.<sup>1</sup></p></div></div><div class="content__container content__container--ad-slot"></div><div class="content__container content__container--html"><div class="content__html"><h2>What are lesions?</h2><p>The
myelin sheath is a layer around the nerves. It allows for efficient
transmission of signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of
the body. When the myelin is damaged, the nerve signals become disrupted
and neurons can degenerate. This can lead to various <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/symptoms">MS symptoms</a>.<sup>1,2</sup></p></div></div><p>A
lesion is a damaged or scarred area. In MS, they are caused by the
inflammation from the immune system attacking the myelin. Lesions are
sometimes called plaques. Not all lesions in the CNS are caused by MS.
But lesions are an important sign of MS. Doctors use the presence and
location of lesions to help diagnose and track MS.<sup>1,2</sup></p><p>MS
lesions can occur throughout the CNS, including the brain, spinal cord,
and optic nerves (the nerves that transmit signals from the eyes).
Lesions are caused by focal inflammation that results in damage to the
myelin and nerves. This damage ultimately leads to scar tissue. Lesions
can vary in size and location. Lesions can be detected with imaging
techniques such as <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/mri">magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)</a>.</p><h2>What do lesions look like on MRI scans?</h2><p>Doctors
use MRI scans to look for lesions. In MS they often use an MRI scan
with contrast. This means they inject a contrast fluid that contains
gadolinium. The gadolinium shows up white (“lights up”) on certain MRI
sequences where inflammation is happening. So, doctors look for white
patches on these MRI sequences to detect active lesions with
inflammation. Lesions older than 3 months typically will not light up
with gadolinium.</p><div class="content__container content__container--ad-slot"></div><p>While
gadolinium only highlights newer lesions with ongoing inflammation,
other MRI sequences can reveal all lesions, new or old, without any
gadolinium. Combining these different MRI techniques allows doctors to
identify both newer active and older inactive lesions.</p><p>Over time, some lesions may show up as a black spot on some MRI
sequences. This means the CNS tissue has suffered so much damage that it
completely degenerates or disappears. Some lesions have been shown to
grow slowly over time. These are called chronic active lesions or <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/clinical/smoldering-lesions">smoldering lesions</a>. Research shows that smoldering lesions may be a risk factor for progressive MS.</p><h2>How are lesions used to diagnose and monitor MS?</h2><p>Lesions
play an important role in the diagnosis and monitoring of MS.
Diagnosing MS often involves imaging, like an MRI, to look for signs of
damage in the CNS. But MS is not the only cause of lesions. Radiologists
review every MRI and look for signs of diseases. An MRI report may
include lists of all possible conditions that could explain the results.</p><div class="content__container content__container--ad-slot"></div><p>An
MRI with lesions does not mean you definitely have MS. For a final MS
diagnosis, a doctor will typically use a physical exam and questions
about your medical history. They may confirm the diagnosis or <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/ruling-out-other-health-conditions">rule out other conditions</a> with other tests like bloodwork or a spinal tap.</p><p>If
you are already diagnosed with MS, your doctors may use MRI images to
look for evidence of ongoing disease activity such as new lesions.
Current MS <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/treatment/managing-the-disease-progression">disease modifying therapies</a>
help prevent development of new lesions. New lesions on an MRI might
suggest your current therapy is not working for you. MRIs taken over
time can also show changes in old lesions. Sometimes old lesions can
shrink or fade overtime. If lesions are growing or spreading, it may
mean you need to consider new treatments.</p><p>If you are
getting multiple MRIs over time of the same area of your body, try to
get the MRIs at the same facility. This helps with tracking because the
MRI machine and technique will be more consistent.</p>You
may have access to MRI results before meeting with your doctor. But it
can be a good idea to wait to review results with a professional.
Doctors are trained to interpret the results and can address any
concerns you may have.<p> </p><p> From: https://multiplesclerosis.net/clinical/what-are-lesions?utm_confid=32f64fac94bd683a885744accd9fcdfdb16ae862446753ab1f7cc160d11f8d21&utm_term=Article_1_Button&utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Understanding%20MS%20Lesions&utm_campaign=MultipleSclerosis%20net-Newsletter-10%2F19%2F2023 <br /></p><p> </p><header class="header"><div data-callback="oneTapCallback" data-client_id="172869413739-m8pgqiso85cii0srobqbq885an1e8mum.apps.googleusercontent.com" data-context="signin" data-prompt_parent_id="g_id_onload" data-v-0cf10c08="" id="g_id_onload"></div></header><div class="app__wrapper"><div class="layout layout--sidebar layout--post" data-v-28aebe7a=""><div class="layout__leaderboard-container"><div class="ad-slot ad-slot--leaderboard" data-google-query-id="CJX5rLa4jIIDFQfcuAgdU7wClA" data-v-c2161cd2="" id="gdfp_0"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/3996134/ms/post_0__container__" style="border: 0pt; display: inline-block; height: 90px; width: 728px;"></div></div></div><div class="hero" data-v-20d9c6b9="" data-v-28aebe7a=""><div class="hero__image-container" data-v-20d9c6b9=""><picture data-v-20d9c6b9=""></picture></div></div><div class="layout__flex-at-wide"><div class="layout__content" id="layout-content"><div class="post" data-v-28aebe7a=""><div class="post-header" data-v-28aebe7a=""><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div><a class="social-share__link social-share__link--twitter link link--unstyled" data-gtm-vis-first-on-screen38460152_177="709" data-gtm_action="click" data-gtm_category="article_buttons" data-gtm_label="twitter_button" data-v-da395f4e="" href="https://twitter.com/share?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmultiplesclerosis.net%2Fclinical%2Fwhat-are-lesions%3Futm_confid%3D32f64fac94bd683a885744accd9fcdfdb16ae862446753ab1f7cc160d11f8d21%26utm_term%3DArticle_1_Button%26utm_source%3DActiveCampaign%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_content%3DUnderstanding%2520MS%2520Lesions%26utm_campaign%3DMultipleSclerosis%2520net-Newsletter-10%252F19%252F2023%26vgo_ee%3DflH7JNA6h%252F9RPXk1vE6qQ6n59VVoAwzFtDa%252F7unQWwUh2w%253D%253D%253AoC7sqJb2j1dZ4bt9%252BZFszH413rWlZjoF" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"><span class="icon social-share__icon" data-v-da395f4e=""><svg viewbox="0 0 44 44" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"></svg></span></a>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-75891626553163195932023-10-06T15:14:00.002-07:002023-10-06T15:14:55.342-07:00The MS Fall<p>The <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/multiple-sclerosis-symptoms">symptoms of MS</a>,
such as trouble with mobility, problems with your senses, and even some
medication side effects, raise your odds for a fall. They may happen
while you move throughout your house, walk around unfamiliar settings,
or trip or slip on certain surfaces.</p><p>These accidents can seem
unpredictable, but if you’re proactive, you can lower your risk for
falls and avoid the physical injuries and mental stress they can cause. </p><p> <strong>Talk to your doctor.</strong> They can help you identify things that may affect your fall risk, like <a data-crosslink-type="slideshow" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/ss/slideshow-fatigue-causes-and-remedies">fatigue</a>,
low energy levels, or other symptoms that might cause you to be more
likely to have an accident. Your doctor can help you manage and minimize
the effects these factors may have on your safety.</p><p><strong>Get a gait check.</strong> Trouble with walking, also known as your gait, is a common problem for people with <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/default.htm">MS</a>. A physical therapist can diagnose any gait disorders and suggest exercises that could help you safely walk.</p><p><strong>Get an expert assessment.</strong> Your health care team can
give you a fall risk screening, which the American Academy of Neurology
recommends for anyone with MS. There are different ways to do them, but
usually, they’ll ask about any falls you’ve had, when you’ve had them,
the causes or situations that lead to them, or if you had any injuries
afterwards. They may also ask a family member about them.</p><p><strong>Begin an exercise program.</strong> Your doctor or physical therapist can help you create an <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/default.htm">exercise plan</a>
that can improve your balance, posture, core strength, and gait. That
can help you lower your chances of falling. Rehabilitation programs,
including physical and occupational therapy, could also help you avoid
accidents.</p><p><strong>Keep a diary to record any of your falls.</strong> You can bring
this in to help your doctor give you a more accurate screening. From
there, they’ll be able to tell if you need extra help to avoid getting
hurt.</p><p><strong>Learn how to fall.</strong> Yes, there are good and bad ways.
If you learn how to do it safely, you can lower your odds of an injury.
Your doctor can help you learn ways to move your body when you feel
that you’re about to lose balance. They can also teach you ways to get
off the floor after a fall. This can help build your confidence and make
you less likely to get hurt.</p><p> <strong>Ask for help.</strong>
If you have issues walking or tend to fear that you’ll lose your
balance, speak up. You’re not “giving in” to your condition by seeking
help. Extra support from your doctors, family, and friends can help you
avoid emotional <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/default.htm">stress</a>, fatigue, and other injuries.</p><p> </p><p> <br /></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-55546324537461509372023-08-20T16:32:00.000-07:002023-08-20T16:32:02.933-07:00Diet Quality Linked to Less Disability Progression in People with MS<p> People who reported healthy eating also reported significantly less
disability progression over more than seven years in a study of 603
people with MS. This new study from the University of Melbourne in
Australia is part of an ongoing effort to provide rigorous results on
how lifestyle factors may affect MS outcomes.<br />
<br />
<strong>Background: </strong><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Living-Well-With-MS/Diet-Exercise-Healthy-Behaviors/Diet-Nutrition?viewmode=0">Diet</a>
is important in MS, possibly affecting disease activity and immune
function. There is no definitive diet that has been scientifically
proven to be beneficial in changing the course of MS. It is more
challenging to show the benefits of a diet as opposed to a medication –
one reason being that it is difficult to make sure that participants
adhere to the diet. But this kind of research is needed to determine how
people with MS and their health care providers can determine whether
making dietary changes will improve outcomes.<br />
<br />
Researchers at the University of Melbourne established the HOLISM study
in 2011 - Health Outcomes and Lifestyle In a Sample of people with MS.
This study is looking at the effects of diet and other lifestyle factors
on MS in 2,500 participants who are assessed every 2.5 years. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35219239/">Previous results</a> showed that better diet quality was linked to increased quality of life in this group.<br />
<br />
<strong>The Study:</strong> The investigators analyzed data from 602
participants in the HOLISM study. Diet quality was assessed using a
questionnaire that reported on the types of healthy and unhealthy foods
eaten. Disability progression was measured using a self-reported
assessment of mobility impairments.<br />
<br />
<strong>Results: </strong>People who reported higher quality diets were
significantly less likely to report disability progression after 7.5
years. Responses relating to higher dairy consumption and eating more
fat had the strongest link to increases in disability. Eating more
fruits/vegetables, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and healthier food
choices were also significantly associated with less risk of
progression, but the links were less consistent.<br />
<br />
<strong>What does this mean? </strong>This ongoing study is adding
information needed to help people with MS and their health care
providers understand how diet impacts MS and what changes may improve
outcomes for people with MS. These results in particular show that
maintaining diet quality may be important in reducing disability
progression.<br />
<br />
While we do not yet know that a specific diet will help your MS, any
positive changes you make are likely to help your overall health and
well-being.<br />
<br />
<strong>Learn More…</strong>
</p><ul><li>Learn <a href="https://momentummagazineonline.com/tag/winter-2022-23/">how different food plans could affect MS</a> in an article from <strong>Momentum Magazine</strong></li><li>Watch a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZtER1-YNMU">webinar discussing dietary recommendations</a> from the Society’s Ask an MS Expert series</li><li>Get <a href="https://realtalkms.com/episode-306-making-meal-planning-and-prep-easier-when-youre-living-with-ms-with-trevis-gleason/">tips and strategies for meal prep</a> from a RealTalk MS podcast <br /></li></ul>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-26835060786470930502023-07-29T08:52:00.000-07:002023-07-29T08:52:02.986-07:00Tips to Manage MS Fatigue <p> Read the tips on:</p><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ss/slideshow-tips-to-manage-ms-fatigue?ecd=wnl_mls_072823&ctr=wnl-mls-072823_lead_title&mb=q80%2F%40kIeuyYKtyaYzOxdbc6RVoMqf%400VkpmvpK5yEEQ%3D">https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ss/slideshow-tips-to-manage-ms-fatigue?ecd=wnl_mls_072823&ctr=wnl-mls-072823_lead_title&mb=q80%2F%40kIeuyYKtyaYzOxdbc6RVoMqf%400VkpmvpK5yEEQ%3D</a></p>
mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-33717050503032932622023-07-17T13:27:00.000-07:002023-07-17T13:27:02.011-07:00MS and Breathing Problems<p> </p><div class="article__body" data-metrics-module="embd-lnk"><div class="article-page active-page" data-page="1"><section><p>When you’re <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/guide/living-with-multiple-sclerosis">living with multiple sclerosis</a>
(MS), there’s a chance you might have trouble breathing. It’s not as
common as other MS symptoms, like numbness, tingling, blurry vision, and
trouble walking. But it can still happen.</p><p>If you start to have <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/lung/breathing-problems-causes-tests-treatments">trouble breathing</a>,
your doctor and other specialists have lots of ways to help. Once they
find out the exact cause of your breathing problem, they can recommend
treatments that allow you to breathe better and improve your quality of
life.</p><p>MS can impact the muscles that affect your breathing. So
breathing problems with MS usually happen when those muscles lose
strength and endurance. There can be other causes, though, and some of
them need treatment right away.</p><p>If you suddenly have trouble getting air, or if you’re having problems breathing right now, call your doctor or 911 immediately.</p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-1">What Are Some Symptoms of MS Breathing Problems?</h2><p>You may have shortness of breath or feel like you can’t take a deep breath.</p><p>You
might have trouble talking, too. Breathing problems can make it harder
and more tiring for you to hold a conversation or speak loudly enough
for others to hear you.</p><div class="module ad emb-center-well-ad" data-google-query-id="CKCeiIDJloADFbjb_QUdzKMC4g" id="ad-centerwell-pos-141-1"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_10__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div><p>Other possible clues of breathing problems with MS are:</p><ul><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/sleep-apnea">Sleep apnea</a></li><li>Coughing or hiccupping a lot</li><li>Sighing</li></ul></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-2">What Can Cause Breathing Problems With MS?</h2><p>The most common cause is weakness in muscles of the chest and belly that help you breathe.</p><div class="module ad ad-5000" data-block-codes="_0_g35_j_" data-google-query-id="COfJr9_IloADFcrL_QUdxG4H-Q" data-is-mobile="false" data-pos="5000" data-sizes="[]" data-targets="{"art":"091e9c5e823b2dd8","pg":"1","cc":"16","env":"0","hcent":"1082","leaf":"16099","mic":"","pt":"1827","sec":"","pug":"","scent":"","tmg":"","tug":"","uri":"/multiple-sclerosis/multiple-sclerosis-breathing-problems","rd":"1","tex":"vuejs_inf","ads_admin_test":"global"}" id="ad-pos-5000-1"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_1__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div><p>Muscle
weakness is common with MS. It can happen in any part of your body,
including the muscles involved in breathing. It can also start early in
the course of MS and gradually get worse over time.</p><p>If the muscles
involved in breathing become weak, you’ll need to work harder to
breathe in and out. And the more effort it takes, the more it could tire
you out, especially if you already have MS fatigue (a symptom that may
affect up to 80% of people with multiple sclerosis).</p><p>Other things
can cause MS-related breathing problems, too. Certain prescription drugs
that some people take to ease their symptoms -- like tranquilizers,
muscle relaxants, or opioid painkillers -- can cause you to breathe
slower and less effectively. Your doctor may want to watch you closely
if you’ve had trouble breathing or swallowing and you take any of these
meds.</p></section></div><div class="article-page active-page" data-page="2"><div class="top-picks dfp-native" data-metrics-module="lln-toppks" data-metrics-type="ad-hoc" id="top-picks-mod-2" role="complementary"><div class="top-pick-container"></div></div><div class="module ad emb-top-ad" data-google-query-id="CJnA-__IloADFQbAuAgd5SIM0Q" id="ad-top-pos-141-2"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_17__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div><section> <p>Another
cause of MS-related breathing problems is a dangerous condition called
aspiration pneumonia. It can happen if you’re not able to clear things
like mucus from your nose and throat, or if you accidentally inhale
food, liquids, or other particles into your lungs.</p><p>A common multiple sclerosis symptom known as the <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ms-hug-how-ease-pain">MS hug</a>
(which feels like a tight band is wrapped around your torso) can also
bring on breathing trouble by causing pain and tightness in your chest.</p><p>One
much less-common cause of trouble breathing is a problem with the
autonomic nervous system. That’s the part of your nervous system that
automatically controls things like your breathing and heartbeat. MS
doesn’t usually affect your autonomic nervous system.</p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-3">What Treatments Can Help Breathing Problems?</h2><p><strong>Talk to your doctor right away. </strong>They
may send you to a specialist who’s trained to treat breathing problems.
Depending on your needs, your treatment plan, and the exact cause of
your breathing troubles, your doctors might prescribe a breathing aid
like:</p><ul><li>A <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/asthma/guide/home-nebulizer-therapy">nebulizer</a>: A small machine that turns liquid medicine into a mist, which you inhale deep into your lungs through a mouthpiece or mask</li><li>An inhaler: A handheld device that lets you breathe medication into your lungs in the form of a mist or spray</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="video" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/video/this-will-make-you-use-your-cpap">CPAP</a>: A machine that treats sleep apnea by helping you breathe through a mask or nosepiece while you sleep</li></ul><div class="module ad emb-center-well-ad" data-google-query-id="CJrA-__IloADFQbAuAgd5SIM0Q" id="ad-centerwell-pos-141-2"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_18__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div></section><section> <p><strong>Build up your breath. </strong>Ask
your doctor to refer you to a respiratory therapist. They’re a
certified medical professional who can come up with a plan to help your
lungs work better.</p><p>Your plan may include breathing exercises that
strengthen the muscles involved in breathing. Along with helping you
breathe better, some of these techniques may lower your stress, too. A
few examples are:</p><ul><li>Square breathing: Inhale for 2 counts
through your nose. Hold it for 2 counts. Then exhale through your mouth
for 2 counts. Do it a few times to relax and lower your heart rate.</li><li>4-7-8:
Breathe in through your nose for 4 counts. Hold it for 7 counts. Then
slowly breathe out for 8 counts. Closing your eyes while you do this may
help you relax.</li><li>Inhale-release, exhale-engage: Place your hands
on your stomach. Inhale into your belly and feel it expand. As you
exhale, tighten your stomach and engage your abs.</li></ul></section></div><div class="article-page active-page" data-page="3"><div class="top-picks dfp-native" data-metrics-module="lln-toppks" data-metrics-type="ad-hoc" id="top-picks-mod-3" role="complementary"><div class="top-pick-container"></div></div><div class="module ad emb-top-ad" data-google-query-id="CNCe34PJloADFWjh_QUdY0QDIw" id="ad-top-pos-141-3"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_22__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div><section> <p><strong>Treat any swallowing issues. </strong>If
your breathing problems come from trouble swallowing, ask your doctor
to refer you to a speech-language pathologist. This communication expert
can also help you if your breathing issues affect your ability to talk.</p><p>A
speech-language pathologist can teach your exercises and do other forms
of therapy that help you swallow or speak more easily, which may
improve your breathing. They might also recommend changes in your diet,
as well as changes in your posture, to help you swallow better while you
eat. If you’ve had aspiration pneumonia, they may suggest you use an
assistive device called a feeding tube to lower your chances of getting
that condition again.</p><p><strong><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/quit-smoking">Quit smoking</a>. </strong>If
you light up, ask your doctor to help you quit. Smoking makes you more
likely to get breathing problems -- and it can cause your MS to get
worse more quickly. Kicking the habit is one of the best things you can
do for your overall health.</p></section></div></div>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-59749034820093613272023-07-13T08:27:00.001-07:002023-07-13T08:28:22.425-07:00On MS from a Mayo Clinic Physician<p> </p><div class="transcript-content show-hide-wrapper" id="transcript-youtube-video-Z1ibVlGflPs">
<p>I'm Dr. Oliver Tobin, a neurologist specializing in multiple
sclerosis at Mayo Clinic. In this video, we'll be covering the basics of
multiple sclerosis. What is it? Who gets it? The symptoms, diagnosis,
and treatment. Whether you're looking for answers about your own health
or that of someone you love, we're here to provide you with the best
information available. Multiple sclerosis is a disorder in which the
body's immune system attacks the protective covering of the nerve cells
in the brain, optic nerve and spinal cord, called the myelin sheath. And
this sheath is often compared to the insulation on an electrical wire.
When that covering is damaged, it exposes the actual nerve fiber, which
can slow or block the signals being transmitted within it. The nerve
fibers themselves might also be damaged. The body can repair damage to
the myelin sheath, but it's not perfect. The resulting damage leaves
lesions or scars, and this is where the name comes from: multiple
sclerosis, multiple scars. Now everyone loses brain cells and spinal
cord cells as they get older. But if part of the brain or spinal cord
has been damaged by MS, the nerve cells in that area will die off faster
than the areas around it that are normal. This happens very slowly,
usually over decades and typically shows up as gradual walking
difficulty happening over several years. When you read about multiple
sclerosis, you may hear about different types -- the most frequent being
relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. And this is characterized by
attacks, or relapses.</p>
<p>We don't know what causes MS, but there are certain factors that may
increase the risk or trigger its onset. So while MS can occur at any
age, it mostly makes its first appearance in people between the ages of
20 and 40. Low levels of vitamin D and low exposure to sunlight, which
enables our body to make vitamin D, are associated with an increased
risk of developing MS. As people who have MS who have low vitamin D tend
to have more severe disease. So people who are overweight are more
likely to develop MS and people who have MS and are overweight tend to
have more severe disease and a faster onset of progression. People who
have MS and who smoke tend to have more relapses, worse progressive
disease, and worse cognitive symptoms. Women are up to three times as
likely as men to have relapsing-remitting MS. The risk for MS in the
general population is about 0.5%. If a parent or sibling has MS, your
risk is about twice that or about 1%. Certain infections are also
important. A variety of viruses have been linked to MS, including
Epstein-Barr virus, which causes mono. Northern and southern latitudes
have a higher prevalence, including Canada, the northern US, New
Zealand, southeastern Australia, and Europe. White people, especially of
northern European descent, are at the highest risk. People of Asian,
African, and Native American ancestry have the lowest risk. A slightly
increased risk is seen if a patient already has autoimmune thyroid
disease, pernicious anemia, psoriasis, type 1 diabetes, or inflammatory
bowel disease.</p>
<p>Symptoms of a relapse usually come on over 24 to 48 hours, last for a
few days to a few weeks and then improve in the region of 80 to a 100
percent. Those symptoms include loss of vision in an eye, loss of power
in an arm or leg or a rising sense of numbness in the legs. Other common
symptoms associated with MS include spasms, fatigue, depression,
incontinence issues, sexual dysfunction, and walking difficulties. </p>
<p>There's currently no single test to make a diagnosis of MS. However,
there are four key features which help to secure the diagnosis. Firstly,
are there typical symptoms of multiple sclerosis? Again, those are loss
of vision in an eye, loss of power in an arm or leg, or sensory
disturbance in an arm or leg lasting for more than 24 hours. Secondly,
do you have any physical examination findings consistent with MS? Next,
is the MRI of your brain or spine consistent with MS? Now here it's
important to note that 95 percent of people over the age of 40 have an
abnormal brain MRI, just the same as many of us have wrinkles on our
skin. Lastly, are the results of the spinal fluid analysis consistent
with MS? Your doctor may recommend blood tests to check for other
diseases that share the same symptoms. They may also recommend an OCT
test or optical coherence tomography. This is a short scan of the
thickness of the layers at the back of your eye.</p>
<p>So the best thing to do when living with MS is to find a trusted
interdisciplinary medical team that can help you monitor and manage your
health. Having a multidisciplinary team is essential for addressing the
individual symptoms that you're experiencing. If you have an MS attack
or relapse, your doctor may prescribe you corticosteroids to reduce or
improve your symptoms. And if your attack symptoms do not respond to
steroids, another option is plasmapheresis or plasma exchange, which is a
treatment similar to dialysis. About 50 percent of people who do not
respond to steroids have a significant improvement with a short course
of plasma exchange. There are over 20 medications currently approved for
prevention of MS attacks and prevention of new MRI lesions.</p>
<p>As learning to function with MS can be challenging, there are medical
experts ready to work with you to help you manage it, so you can still
live a full life. Consulting with a physiatrist, physical or
occupational therapist can help you deal with physical difficulties.
Physical activity is strongly recommended for all people with MS. Mental
health is also an important consideration. So keeping up personal
connections with friends and family and trying to stay involved with
your hobbies is important. But also be kind to yourself and realistic
about what you're up for. This can change from day to day, so it's okay
to give yourself permission if something seems like too much or if you
need to cancel plans. You may also find support groups helpful to
connect with people who understand what you are going through and
discuss your feelings and concerns with a doctor or a counselor.
Meanwhile, scientists are hard at work, expanding our understanding of
this disease and developing new treatments and medications which are
ever more effective. If you want to learn more, watch more of our videos
or visit mayoclinic.org. We wish you well.</p>
</div>
<div class="access-modal right p-3">
</div><div class="access-modal right p-3">
</div>
<p>Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system).</p>
<p>In <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr>, the immune system
attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and
causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your
body. Eventually, the disease can cause permanent damage or
deterioration of the nerve fibers.</p><div data-nosnippet="true"></div>
<p>Signs and symptoms of <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr> vary
widely between patients and depend on the location and severity of
nerve fiber damage in the central nevous system. Some people with severe
<abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr> may lose the ability to walk
independently or ambulate at all. Other individuals may experience long
periods of remission without any new symptoms depending on the type of <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr> they have.</p>
<p>There's no cure for multiple sclerosis. However, there are treatments
to help speed the recovery from attacks, modify the course of the
disease and manage symptoms.</p><div class="acces-list-container rc-list"></div>
<div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
<h2>Symptoms</h2><div class="access-modal right p-3">
</div><div class="access-modal right p-3">
</div>
<p>Multiple sclerosis signs and symptoms may differ greatly from person
to person and over the course of the disease depending on the location
of affected nerve fibers.</p>
<p>Common symptoms include:</p>
<ul><li>Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs that typically occurs on one side of your body at a time</li><li>Tingling</li><li>Electric-shock sensations that occur with certain neck movements, especially bending the neck forward (Lhermitte sign)</li><li>Lack of coordination</li><li>Unsteady gait or inability to walk</li><li>Partial or complete loss of vision, usually in one eye at a time, often with pain during eye movement</li><li>Prolonged double vision</li><li>Blurry vision</li><li>Vertigo</li><li>Problems with sexual, bowel and bladder function</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Slurred speech</li><li>Cognitive problems</li><li>Mood disturbances</li></ul>
<h3>When to see a doctor</h3><p>See a doctor if you experience any of the above symptoms for unknown reasons.</p>
<h3>Disease course</h3><p>Most people with <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr>
have a relapsing-remitting disease course. They experience periods of
new symptoms or relapses that develop over days or weeks and usually
improve partially or completely. These relapses are followed by quiet
periods of disease remission that can last months or even years.</p>
<p>Small increases in body temperature can temporarily worsen signs and symptoms of <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr>. These aren't considered true disease relapses but pseudorelapses.</p>
<p>At least 20% to 40% of those with relapsing-remitting <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr>
can eventually develop a steady progression of symptoms, with or
without periods of remission, within 10 to 20 years from disease onset.
This is known as secondary-progressive <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr>.</p>
<p>The worsening of symptoms usually includes problems with mobility and
gait. The rate of disease progression varies greatly among people with
secondary-progressive <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr>.</p>
<p>Some people with <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr> experience a gradual onset and steady progression of signs and symptoms without any relapses, known as primary-progressive <abbr title="multiple sclerosis">MS</abbr>.</p><div class="acces-list-container rc-list"><h3>More Information</h3><div class="list-wrapper"><ul class="listGroup" id="ul_e84f53d0-e704-4246-afc0-15b167582238"><li class="acces-listitems"><a data-di-id="di-id-347cbeed-e82abd87" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/care-at-mayo-clinic/mac-20350279">Multiple sclerosis care at Mayo Clinic</a></li><li class="acces-listitems"><a data-di-id="di-id-d99dfd4d-d520618d" href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-sclerosis/expert-answers/multiple-sclerosis/faq-20058138">Multiple sclerosis: Can it cause seizures?</a></li></ul></div></div>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-33466486828809288102023-07-07T16:18:00.002-07:002023-07-07T16:18:59.679-07:00Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Tremors <p> </p><div class="article__body" data-metrics-module="embd-lnk"><div class="article-page active-page" data-page="1"><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-1">What Is a Tremor?</h2><p>A tremor is when a body part moves or shakes and you can’t control it. Many people with <a data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/what-is-multiple-sclerosis">multiple sclerosis</a> (MS) have some form of tremor they can’t control, in different parts of their bodies, like their head, arms, or legs.</p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-2">What Are the Types of Tremors?</h2><p></p><ul><li><strong>Intention tremor.</strong> There’s no shaking when you’re at rest. It starts when you try to reach or grasp something or move your <a data-crosslink-type="tools" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/rm-quiz-handfacts">hand</a> or <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/foot-pain-causes-and-treatments">foot</a> to a precise spot. This is the most common form of <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/what-is-multiple-sclerosis">MS</a> tremor, and it usually causes the most problems in day-to-day life.</li><li><strong>Postural tremors.</strong> You shake when you sit or stand, but not when you lie down.</li><li><b>Resting tremor.</b> You move more when you’re sitting still and less when you move. This is more common with Parkinson’s disease than MS.</li><li><strong><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/nystagmus">Nystagmus</a>.</strong> This type causes jumpy <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/picture-of-the-eyes">eye</a> movements.</li></ul><p></p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-3">Why Does MS Cause Tremors?</h2><p>This disease damages the protective sheath (<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/myelin-sheath-facts">myelin</a>) that covers the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. Tremors result from damage to a part of <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/picture-of-the-brain-vue3">your brain</a>
called the cerebellum. It controls your balance and coordination and
smooths out the actions that you make when you move your limbs and <a data-crosslink-type="slideshow" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/ss/slideshow-eye-conditions-overview">eyes</a> or speak.</p></section><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-4">Medicines That Treat MS Tremors</h2><p>These problems are one of the hardest <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/multiple-sclerosis-symptoms">MS symptoms</a> to treat. There aren’t any <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/index-drugs.aspx">drugs</a> made just to <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/be-empowered-ms-17/ms-treatment">treat MS</a> tremors. Your doctors may prescribe drugs for another condition that could help, like:</p><ul><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-6755-acetazolamide+oral.aspx">Acetazolamide</a> (<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-6753-diamox+oral.aspx">Diamox</a>), which treats a type of <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-tool-spotting-vision-problems/glaucoma-eyes">glaucoma</a> and altitude sickness</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-8876-buspirone+oral.aspx">Buspirone</a> (<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-9036-buspar+oral.aspx">Buspar</a>) and <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-6006-CLONAZEPAM+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=14403&drugname=Clonazepam+Oral">clonazepam</a> (<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-920/klonopin+oral/details">Klonopin</a>), which are anti-<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/default.htm">anxiety</a> drugs</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-3775-hydroxyzine+hcl+im.aspx">Hydroxyzine</a> (<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-5511-atarax+oral.aspx">Atarax</a>, <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-53-vistaril+im.aspx">Vistaril</a>), an <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/allergies/antihistamines-for-allergies">antihistamine</a></li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-8665-isoniazid+oral.aspx">Isoniazid</a> (INH), a drug for <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/lung/understanding-tuberculosis-basics">tuberculosis</a></li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-8696-primidone+oral.aspx">Primidone</a> (<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-9343-mysoline+oral.aspx">Mysoline</a>), a <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/epilepsy/understanding-seizures-basics">seizure</a> medicine</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-2930/propranolol-hydrochlorothiazide+oral/details">Propranolol</a> (<a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-494-inderal+la+oral.aspx">Inderal</a>), which treats <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/heart/picture-of-the-heart">heart</a> problems, <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/default.htm">high blood pressure</a>, and <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/guide/migraines-headaches-migraines">migraines</a></li></ul><div class="module ad emb-center-well-ad" data-google-query-id="CPqJ5dDc_f8CFbTNuAgdfHIPvA" id="ad-centerwell-pos-141-1"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_10__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div><p> Nonmedicinal Tremor Treatments</p></section><section><p></p><ul><li><strong>Braces:</strong> These can hold your <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/joint-pain">joint</a> still and stop extra movement. A brace on your <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/picture-of-the-ankle">ankle</a> or foot can make it easier to walk. They can help control your arm, hand, or neck, too.</li><li><strong>Deep brain stimulation:</strong>
This experimental approach is mostly used for people who have tremors
from Parkinson’s disease. A doctor implants electrodes into your brain.
Wires connect them to a gadget in your chest. You use it to send your
brain signals that stop the tremors.</li><li><strong>Medical <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/marijuana-use-and-its-effects">cannabis</a>: </strong>There’s
little evidence that cannabis can help with tremors, but study results
are mixed and usually only include small numbers of people.</li><li><strong><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/what-is-physical-therapy">Physical therapy</a>:</strong> It can show you exercises that increase your range of motion, improve your posture and balance, and make your body more stable</li><li><strong>Speech therapy:</strong> If you have tremors in your lips, <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/picture-of-the-tongue">tongue</a>, or jaw, a health professional can work with you to slow your speech, make it clearer, and control the volume.</li><li><strong>Occupational therapist:</strong> This person will set you up with special tools called adaptive or <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/features/living-easier-arthritis-devices">assistive devices</a>. They can help you grab things from up high or off the floor, pull up a zipper, or hold a fork more easily.</li><li><strong>Weights:</strong>
Adding extra weight to a body part can help keep it still. You can also
add weights to commonly used items like forks, pencils, pens, eating
utensils, canes, and walkers.</li></ul><p></p></section></div><div class="article-page active-page" data-page="2"><div class="top-picks dfp-native" data-metrics-module="lln-toppks" data-metrics-type="ad-hoc" id="top-picks-mod-2" role="complementary"><div class="top-pick-container"></div></div><div class="module ad emb-top-ad" data-google-query-id="CIbJg-Pc_f8CFbDm_QUdFLEJkA" id="ad-top-pos-141-2"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_17__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div><section><h2 class="jumplink-headers" id="1-6">Tremors and Depression</h2><p>Tremors
can be tough to handle in social situations. You may feel like you want
to be alone, but that can make you feel lonely and depressed. A <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/guide-to-psychiatry-and-counseling">psychologist</a>
or counselor can help you find ways to feel more comfortable in public
and keep the tremors from changing how you live your life.</p></section></div></div>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-32911042107845294572023-06-03T09:20:00.003-07:002023-06-03T09:20:35.198-07:00Seven Complications of MS<p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/what-is-multiple-sclerosis"><span style="color: blue;">Multiple sclerosis</span></a> (MS) is an <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/autoimmune-diseases"><span style="color: blue;">autoimmune disease</span></a> that disrupts the
communication between <a href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/picture-of-the-brain-vue3"><span style="color: blue;">your brain</span></a> and the rest of your body. MS can
affect each person differently. You may have one or more symptoms while someone
else could have many more.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You
also can develop complications along with your <a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">MS</span></a>. They can range from mild to severe. The
problems may differ from person to person.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Muscle Stiffness and Spasticity</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It’s
quite common to feel tightness and soreness in your larger muscles. <a href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pain-management-spasticity"><span style="color: blue;">Spasticity</span></a> may make your muscles so stiff that
you can’t easily unclench your fist or bend your wrist. You also may get
painful spasms. Stiffness and spasms can happen anywhere on your body. But leg
muscles are affected most often. Your joints and low back also may hurt.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/index-drugs.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Medications</span></a>
can help ease your spasticity. So can treatments that relax your muscles,
including exercises, stretches, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bladder and Bowel Problems</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">MS
can disrupt the electrical signals to the muscles that control how you pee and
poop. As many as nine out of 10 people with MS have problems with their <a href="https://www.webmd.com/urinary-incontinence-oab/types-of-urinary-incontinence"><span style="color: blue;">bladder</span></a>. The issues vary from person to person
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in often you may need to pee</span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Difficulty
urinating</span></li></ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">About
two out of three people have issues with <a href="https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/rm-quiz-poop"><span style="color: blue;">bowel movements</span></a>. The most common complaint is <a href="https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-constipation"><span style="color: blue;">constipation</span></a>, which is having trouble pooping or
having fewer than three bowel movements a week. Some people may have trouble
controlling when they need to poop.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">Physical activity</span></a>, diet changes, medication
adjustments, and timed routines for bowel movements can help you gain more control
over your life.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Vision Problems</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Most
people with MS will have issues with their <a href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/picture-of-the-eyes"><span style="color: blue;">eyes</span></a> at some point. Some common <a href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">vision</span></a>
problems include:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/optic-neuritis-ms-vision"><b><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Optic
neuritis</span></b></a><b>. </b>This can cause pain in your eye as well as dim
or <a href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/why-is-my-vision-blurry"><span style="color: blue;">blurry vision</span></a>. Optic neuritis also can take away
your ability to see colors. You might even lose your vision temporarily.
Usually, your vision returns after some time.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/nystagmus"><b><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Nystagmus</span></b></a><b>.</b> This
is also called “dancing eyes.” It’s when you lack control over your eye
movements. This can happen consistently in some people with MS. For others,
nystagmus can come and go.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/double-vision-diplopia-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment"><b><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Diplopia</span></b></a><b>.</b>
This means double vision. It happens because MS can disrupt the nerves that
control eye movement and weaken or damage them. You may see two of the same
images side by side or one on top of the other. For some people, diplopia may
be temporary, but others may have it for long periods of time. Medication and
special eyeglasses can help you if your symptoms persist.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Balance Issues</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Muscle
weakness, spasms, and vision problems all can affect your balance and walking
form. Treatments such as <a href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/what-is-physical-therapy"><span style="color: blue;">physical therapy</span></a> can help you gain more control
over your <a href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/ss/slideshow-twitches-spasms-causes"><span style="color: blue;">muscle spasms</span></a>. Canes, crutches, walkers, and
wheelchairs also can help you move around more easily.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mental Health</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Living
with a lifelong disease can affect you mentally and emotionally. It’s common
and normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It’s
important to talk to your doctor or health care provider if you feel depressed
or anxious and it affects your daily life. <a href="https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-medications-antidepressants"><span style="color: blue;">Antidepressants</span></a>, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-health-psychotherapy"><span style="color: blue;">talk therapy</span></a>, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/balance/video/farrell-therapy-counseling"><span style="color: blue;">counseling</span></a>, and other services can help.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Exercises,
hobbies, getting outside, and connecting with loved ones also can boost your
mood.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sexual Dysfunction</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
faulty nerve signals that happen with MS can affect the <a href="https://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/ss/slideshow-sex-drive-killers"><span style="color: blue;">sex drive</span></a> for women and men. It can make it
harder to reach <a href="https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/rm-quiz-orgasms"><span style="color: blue;">orgasm</span></a> or get an erection. MS complications such
as bladder and bowel problems, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/women/rm-quiz-fatigue-something-else"><span style="color: blue;">fatigue</span></a>, and <a href="https://www.webmd.com/depression/understanding-depression-basics"><span style="color: blue;">depression</span></a> also may affect your <a href="https://www.webmd.com/sexual-conditions/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">sexual health</span></a>. Side effects from MS medications
can play a part too.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Talk
to your doctor if you have issues with arousal or find <a href="https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">sex</span></a> painful or uncomfortable. Aids like vibrators
and lubricants can heighten sexual sensation. Certain sexual positions may be easier.
You also can learn ways to stay intimate with cuddling and other acts.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Epilepsy</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">MS
raises your chances of <a href="https://www.webmd.com/epilepsy/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">epilepsy</span></a>, a brain disorder that causes <a href="https://www.webmd.com/epilepsy/understanding-seizures-basics"><span style="color: blue;">seizures</span></a>. The episodes may be mild and temporary.
Antiepileptic drugs can help. Sometimes, you may not need any treatments for
seizures.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p></p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-80243846629353498392023-05-19T15:42:00.001-07:002023-05-19T15:42:16.951-07:00What Is the MS Hug? <p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Written by Tracy Brown</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Medically Reviewed by <a href="https://www.webmd.com/christopher-melinosky"><span style="color: blue;">Christopher
Melinosky, MD </span></a>on April 14, 2022 </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If
you have <a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/guide/what-is-multiple-sclerosis"><span style="color: blue;">multiple sclerosis</span></a>, an <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/autoimmune-diseases"><span style="color: blue;">autoimmune disease</span></a> that affects the <a href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/picture-of-the-brain-vue3"><span style="color: blue;">brain</span></a> and spinal cord, you might have felt a band
of pain around your torso. It’s often called the “<a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/guide/ms-hug-how-ease-pain"><span style="color: blue;">MS hug</span></a>.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What It Feels Like</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Like
most <a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/multiple-sclerosis-symptoms"><span style="color: blue;">MS symptoms</span></a>, it’s different for each person. You
might feel it right under your rib cage, in your chest, or anywhere between
your neck and waistline. It can be:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Burning</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dull and achy pain</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Hard to breathe</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">Pain</span></a> on one side of your body</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pressure</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sharp pain</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Tickling</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Tightness</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Tingling or pins and needles</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Vibration</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It
can last a few seconds to a few hours, and in rare cases, a few days. People
often say it’s like wearing a girdle around the middle of your body. For that
reason, you may also hear it called by a number of names, like:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Banding</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Girdle-band</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Girdling</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">MS girdle</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You
might feel it in your head, hands, or <a href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/foot-pain-causes-and-treatments"><span style="color: blue;">feet</span></a> instead. People with this type of sensation
feel like they’re wearing tight gloves or boots. Read more about <a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/controlling-muscle-spasms-multiple-sclerosis" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">muscle spasms and tightness with MS</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What Causes It?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/what-is-multiple-sclerosis"><span style="color: blue;">MS</span></a> affects the way nerves send messages. The
tightness, pain, or whatever you’re feeling results from spasms in small
muscles between your ribs. The doctor will call these intercostal muscles. They
hold your rib cage together and help it expand when you move, bend, or <a href="https://www.webmd.com/lung/how-we-breathe"><span style="color: blue;">breathe</span></a>.
If these muscles have spasms, you feel painful, tightening pressure.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
hug is a type of <a href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/nerve-pain-and-nerve-damage-symptoms-and-causes"><span style="color: blue;">nerve pain</span></a>. You might hear a doctor call it
dysesthesia, which means a sensation that isn't normal.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If
other symptoms come on quickly at the same time, the hug can also be a sign
that your MS is relapsing. Call your doctor if this happens. Get more
information on <a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/dysesthesia-pain" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">what dyesthesia pain feels like with MS</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What Should You Do?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If
you think you’re having an MS hug, talk to your <a href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/neurologist-facts"><span style="color: blue;">neurologist</span></a>
or main doctor right away. The symptoms can seem like those of a <a href="https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/heart-disease-heart-attacks"><span style="color: blue;">heart attack</span></a>, so it’s important to make sure
that’s not the case and to rule out any other causes of the pressure.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your
doctor will most likely give you an <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri"><span style="color: blue;">MRI</span></a> to look for other things, like <a href="https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/picture-of-the-gallbladder"><span style="color: blue;">gallbladder problems</span></a> or <a href="https://www.webmd.com/lung/lung-diseases-overview"><span style="color: blue;">lung disease</span></a>. MS hug can also happen to people
with other rib and spinal cord conditions.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Can You Prevent It?</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Yes.
The hug responds to the same triggers as other MS symptoms. Keep notes and
learn what sets yours off. It might show up, or get worse if you’re:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fighting a <a href="https://www.webmd.com/ss/slideshow-cold-or-flu"><span style="color: blue;">cold</span></a>,
<a href="https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">flu</span></a>, or <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/understanding-bladder-infections-basic-information"><span style="color: blue;">bladder infection</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Fatigued</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stressed out</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Too hot</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Medications for MS Hug</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You
may not need treatment. But if you do, what your doctor gives you will depend
on the cause.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If they
think your symptoms signal a relapse, you might get <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-steroids-101"><span style="color: blue;">steroids</span></a> to help prevent it:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-20914/corticotropin-bulk/details"><span style="color: blue;">Corticotropin</span></a> (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-53490/acthar+h.p.+injection/details"><span style="color: blue;">Acthar</span></a>, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1888/acthar-hp-injection/details"><span style="color: blue;">HP Acthar</span></a>)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-53001-methylprednisone+oral.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Methylprednisone</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-9383-PREDNISONE+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=6007&drugname=prednisone+oral"><span style="color: blue;">Prednisone</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your
doctor may suggest over-the-counter treatments like:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-362/acetaminophen-oral/details"><span style="color: blue;">Acetaminophen</span></a> or <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-9368-IBUPROFEN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=5166&drugname=ibuprofen+oral"><span style="color: blue;">ibuprofen</span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pain relief cream</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Or
they could prescribe other <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/index-drugs.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">medications</span></a>,
including:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Drugs for <a href="https://www.webmd.com/depression/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">depression</span></a>
that also fight nerve pain, such as <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-8611-amitriptyline+oral.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">amitriptyline</span></a> (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-1807-elavil+oral.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Elavil</span></a>) and <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-91490-duloxetine+oral.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">duloxetine</span></a> (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-91491-cymbalta+oral.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">Cymbalta</span></a>)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Drugs that stop convulsions and also
halt nerve pain, like <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-8217-GABAPENTIN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=14208&drugname=Gabapentin+Oral"><span style="color: blue;">gabapentin</span></a> (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/mono-8217-GABAPENTIN+-+ORAL.aspx?drugid=9845&drugname=neurontin+oral"><span style="color: blue;">Neurontin</span></a>) and <span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-93954-pregabalin+oral.aspx"><span style="color: blue;">pregabalin</span></a> (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-93965/lyrica+oral/details"><span style="color: blue;">Lyrica</span></a>)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Muscle relaxers like <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-8615/baclofen+oral/details"><span style="color: blue;">baclofen</span></a> (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12240/lioresal+oral/details"><span style="color: blue;">Lioresal</span></a>, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-155156/gablofen-intrathecal/details"><span style="color: blue;">Gablofen</span></a>)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your
<a href="https://www.webmd.com/health-insurance/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">health care</span></a> team will work with you to choose the
best mix of treatments for you.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How to Manage the MS Hug</span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You
can try these things at home:</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Apply a warm compress. (Be careful:
Heat might make your pain worse.)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Drink plenty of <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/features/wonders-of-water"><span style="color: blue;">water</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Eat healthy food.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Get a <a href="https://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/massage-therapy-styles-and-health-benefits"><span style="color: blue;">massage</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stay rested. Get at least 8 hours of <a href="https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/default.htm"><span style="color: blue;">sleep</span></a> each night.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Use deep breathing techniques, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/the-health-benefits-of-yoga"><span style="color: blue;">yoga</span></a>, and <a href="https://www.webmd.com/balance/meditation"><span style="color: blue;">meditation</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Some people get relief from wearing
tight clothing but may prefer loose clothing.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">View
a slideshow to learn more about other <a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ss/slideshow-unusual-symptoms-ms" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">unusual symptoms of MS</span></a>.</span></p>
<p></p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-81187857544866959282023-05-18T14:21:00.001-07:002023-05-18T14:21:12.861-07:00How Cycling Has Helped Me Stay Active <p> </p><div class="byline byline--inline" data-v-0ee3bb16="" data-v-9ad062ce=""><div class="byline__content" data-v-0ee3bb16=""><p class="byline__author" data-v-0ee3bb16=""><span aria-haspopup="true" class="byline__name byline__name--with-tooltip link" data-v-0ee3bb16="" tabindex="0">nonamehawaiian</span></p></div></div><div class="post" data-v-9ad062ce=""><br /><div class="post__content" data-v-9ad062ce=""><div class="content" data-v-9ad062ce=""><div class="content__container content__container--html"><div class="content__html"><p>It
started with a numbing sensation down my left leg, then I noticed
balance issues, then I noticed a little difficulty with walking. Smaller
stuff kept coming, but I've always had a reason to justify what was
going on with me physically. </p><h2>I had to Google what MS was</h2><p>When
a friend told me she was diagnosed with MS, I wasn't sure what MS stood
for so I Google'd 'MS.' On the first page I opened, halfway down, it
said, '<a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/symptoms">Early Signs of MS</a>.'
On the list were 'balance,' 'difficulty walking,' 'numbing sensations
in the hands and feet,' and 'dizziness or vertigo.' Hmm, I had 5
symptoms listed. I made an appointment with an MS specialist and found
that I had MS. Upon being recommended a second opinion, I brought an old
brain <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/praying-hoping-waiting-mri-anxiety">MRI</a> from 4 years prior. </p></div></div><div class="content__container content__container--ad-slot"></div><div class="content__container content__container--html"><div class="content__html"><h2>I had had MS for a while it seems</h2><p>As
it turned out, I had been living with MS since, but my MS had never
presented symptoms until now. My neurologist told me I can still live a
productive life and help keep my MS from progressing: 1) find an MS
therapy that works, 2) manage stress, and 3) exercise. And so I did. I
turned to <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/joke-humor-coping">cycling</a>
as a form of exercise, which is also my stress relief. Cycling has
helped my balance and walks and has helped my fitness and physical
well-being. Coupled with an MS therapy that has been working since my
diagnosis, my MS has remained stable since 2012. </p><h2>Remaining stable and active</h2><p>Today, I am still active on the bike, and work diligently on my <a href="https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/stability-issues">balance</a>
in my home gym, and have not missed a medication dose. I am still
learning about my MS and how to 'bob and weave' when symptoms hit, but I
remain stable and active!</p></div></div><div class="content__container content__container--html"><div class="content__html"><p><img alt="Just because you have a disability does not mean you do not have the ability." class="uploaded-image" src="https://multiplesclerosis.net/content/images/2022/12/20/ad6dfa6386d2ad748225fea54b0a30a6_medium.jpeg" /></p></div></div></div></div></div>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-73061822716727728272023-05-16T16:19:00.001-07:002023-05-16T16:19:18.176-07:00“Comorbid” Conditions Appear in People with MS at Diagnosis, but May Not be Treated, Says New Study<p>A new study in England found that high blood pressure and diabetes were
more common in people with MS at the time of their MS diagnosis than in
people who don’t have MS, but fewer were on medications used to control
these conditions. Identifying and addressing these types of “vascular”
conditions as early as possible may improve the course of MS – see below
for resources.
</p><ul><li><strong>Background: </strong>In scientific terms, having more than
one chronic medical condition at the same time is called “comorbidity.”
There is growing recognition that comorbidities may increase MS
progression and detract from an individual’s general health and quality
of life. One such comorbidity is high blood pressure (hypertension),
which may be as much as <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/About-the-Society/News/High-Blood-Pressure-is-Common-in-MS,-Says-New-Stud">25% more common in people with MS</a> compared to those who don’t have MS.</li><li><strong>This Study: </strong>A team of researchers from University
College London and the University of Manitoba identified 12,251 people
with MS and 72,572 people without MS who were matched by age and other
factors in a large database that contains electronic medical records
from general medical practices in England.<br />
<br />
They looked at differences between people with MS – specifically at the
time of diagnosis – and those without MS, in the prevalence of type 2
diabetes and high blood pressure, and in the use of medications used to
combat diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.</li><li><strong>Results: </strong>Type 2 diabetes was 30% more common in
people at the time of diagnosis with MS than in those without MS, but
56% fewer were using medications to treat diabetes. More people had high
blood pressure at the time of their MS diagnosis, but 66% fewer were
using medications to reduce blood pressure. The use of medications to
reduce high cholesterol was 63% lower in people with MS.</li><li><strong>The Meaning: </strong>This study indicates that
comorbidities are common even at the time when MS is first diagnosed,
and these potentially serious health conditions may go untreated. Since
having comorbidities can significantly worsen a person’s MS disease
course, the authors recommend that guidelines be developed to work these
considerations into the management of people with MS at diagnosis. For
now, people with MS can follow available recommendations (see below) for
general health screenings to detect possible comorbidities.
Importantly, high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol are
TREATABLE conditions, using medication and lifestyle recommendations.</li></ul>
<strong>Take control of comorbidities: Resources</strong>
<ul><li><a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Programs-and-Services/Resources/Preventive-Care-Recommendations-for-Adults-with-MS">Here is a checklist</a> to help you keep track of your general health and address issues that need attention.</li></ul>
<ul><li>Learn more about <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Living-Well-With-MS">healthy behaviors</a> that help to address coexisting conditions.</li><li>Get tips for <a href="https://momentummagazineonline.com/when-ms-isnt-your-only-disease/">managing MS and something else</a> (comorbidities) from <strong>Momentum Magazine.</strong></li><li>Watch a webinar on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ox_ybxYplkw"><strong>“Living well with MS and other health conditions”</strong></a></li></ul>
“<a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13524585231164296">Management of vascular risk in people with multiple sclerosis at the time of diagnosis in England: A population-based study</a>,” by Drs. Raffaele Palladino, Ruth Ann Marrie, Azeem Majeed, and Jeremy Chataway, is published in the <strong>MS Journal </strong>(First published online April 7, 2023).<br />
<p> </p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-2930792598325168142023-04-21T15:35:00.001-07:002023-04-21T15:35:31.346-07:00Spasticity and MS: How to Control Your Muscles <p> </p><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">From <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">WebMD
Editorial Contributors</i> </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Many
people with multiple sclerosis have stiff muscles and spasms, a condition
called spasticity. It happens mostly in the muscles of the legs and arms, and
it may keep you from moving your limbs freely.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">You
might feel spasticity either as stiffness that doesn’t go away or as movements
you can’t control that come and go, especially at night. It can feel like a
muscle tightening, or it can be very painful. Spasticity also can make you ache
or feel tight in and around your joints and low back. How you feel can vary
depending on your position, posture, and how relaxed you are.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">What Causes Spasticity?</span></b></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Spasticity
happens because of an imbalance in the electrical signals coming from the brain
and spinal cord, often when multiple sclerosis has damaged the nerves there.
This unevenness makes your muscles contract on their own and makes them tense.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">The
condition can get worse when it’s too hot or cold, when you have an infection,
or if you’re wearing tight clothing.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Treatment for MS Spasticity</span></b></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Physical
therapy, medications, surgery, or a mix of these treatments can ease spasticity
when you have <a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/what-is-multiple-sclerosis"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">MS</span></a>. To decide the best way to help you, your doctors will
think about your overall health, how severe your symptoms are, and:</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Does the condition keep you from doing
everyday tasks?</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Are you in pain?</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Which treatments have you tried, and how well
did they work?</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">How much will it cost?</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">What are the side effects?</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Will the benefits outweigh the risks?</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Physical and Occupational Therapy for Spasticity</span></b></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Most
of the time, a physical therapist will start treating MS spasticity with a
basic physical therapy stretching program. The goal is to lengthen your muscles
to ease the condition.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">An
occupational therapist may recommend different tools, like splints, casts, or
braces, to keep up your range of motion and flexibility.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">If
physical and occupational therapy don’t help, your doctor may want you to try
medications.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Medications for Spasticity</span></b></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Doctors
can choose from among several kinds of medications to treat MS-related
spasticity. They include:</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Skeletal
muscle relaxants.</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> These drugs relieve the muscle tension of spasticity.
Some work directly on your muscles, and others act through your nervous system.
One of the most common medications for spasticity is the muscle relaxant baclofen
(Ozobax). Doctors also sometimes prescribe dantrolene (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-6742-dantrium+oral.aspx"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Dantrium</span></a>). If pills don’t work, your doctor might be able to
put a pump inside your body to deliver the medication directly to your spinal
fluid (such as the baclofen pump). </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Benzodiazepines.</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> These
are nervous system depressants, which means they slow down messages in your
nervous system. They include <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6306/diazepam+oral/details"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">diazepam</span></a> (Valium) and clonazepam (<a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-920/klonopin+oral/details"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Klonopin</span></a>). They can also help you sleep if nighttime spasms
keep you awake. You might also hear them called tranquilizers. They aren’t
FDA-approved for treating MS symptoms. So they’re usually prescribed along with
another medication, or if other drugs haven’t worked. </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Botulinum
toxin.</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;"> You can also get shots of botulinum toxin (such as <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-153465/botox+injection/details"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Botox</span></a> or <a href="https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-20337/myobloc-intramuscular/details"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Myobloc</span></a>) to relax your muscles. It blocks the nerve messages
that tell your muscles to tighten up. It’s not suitable for use in large areas,
so it’s best for spasticity that’s limited to one part of your body. It’s also
temporary. Each shot lasts 3-4 months. </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Alpha2-adrenergic
agonists.</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Tizanidine (Zanaflex) works through your central nervous
system to ease spasticity. It relaxes your muscles by decreasing nerve
stimulation. Its effects are similar to those of baclofen, and it’s sometimes
prescribed along with baclofen. </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Your
doctor might prescribe other medicines to treat some of the effects of
spasticity. For some people, spasticity can lead to symptoms like pain or restless
legs syndrome. </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Some
studies have shown that products made from cannabis (marijuana) can ease
spasticity, though we need more research into this. Smoking marijuana has not
been shown to have the same effect and could be harmful to people with MS. Ask
your doctor if cannabis products might help you.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 2; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 18.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">When Does Surgery Help?</span></b></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">When
other treatments don't work, there are two types of surgery that can treat
spasticity.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">In one
type, a surgeon cuts away part of the spinal nerve. The operation is called
rhizotomy. The goal is to relieve pain or ease muscle tension.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">Tendon
release, also called a tenotomy, is the second type. A surgeon cuts severely
tight tendons away from the muscles. It may make spasticity happen less often
and make it less severe, depending on how old you are. Over time, you may need
to have the surgery again.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-themecolor: text1;">These
surgeries can help, but they’re usually only for extreme cases of spasticity
and are rarely performed in patients with MS..</span></p>
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</p><p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">More
than one third of 702 people with MS and minimal disability had low levels of
sexual function and satisfaction, in a new study reported by researchers at
Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Decreases in sexual function and satisfaction
over time were linked to increased disability and increased symptoms such as
fatigue and depression.<br />
<br />
People with MS and healthcare professionals may hesitate to discuss sexual
problems; findings like these highlight how important it is to consider if
these are affecting your quality of life, and if you can improve them. </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Background: </span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sexual arousal begins with the brain
sending messages to the sexual organs along nerves running through the spinal
cord. If MS damages these particular nerve pathways, sexual response can be
directly affected. MS symptoms such as fatigue, spasticity, or mood changes can
also contribute to sexual problems indirectly.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This Study: </span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The researchers looked at 702 people
with MS who are enrolled in the CLIMB study (Comprehensive Longitudinal
Investigation of MS at the Brigham and Women's Hospital), an ongoing study that
is following more than 2000 people with MS to figure out what factors affect
the course of MS. Participants completed annual questionnaires for several
years on quality of life, fatigue and depression. The group included 526 people
who self-identified as female and 176 who self-identified as male. The average
age was 42, and disability levels were low.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Results: </span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Among the 702 participants, 38% reported
low sexual function and 45% reported low sexual satisfaction. Being older
and having MS longer were linked to sexual problems. Participants whose
satisfaction and function decreased over time were more likely to have
increased fatigue, depression, or disability over that time period as well.
Although all aspects of quality of life were associated with sexual function
and satisfaction, there were differences between males and females in the
strength of these connections. For example, in women, low sexual satisfaction
was strongly linked to fatigue. In men, low function was strongly linked to
emotional factors.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Why This Matters: </span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This study highlights the importance of
discussing sexual problems with healthcare providers, even early in the course
of MS before having physical disability. Seeking treatments for potentially
modifiable symptoms such as <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms/Emotional-Changes"><span style="color: blue;">depression</span></a> or <a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Symptoms-Diagnosis/MS-Symptoms/Fatigue"><span style="color: blue;">fatigue</span></a> may help increase sexual function and
satisfaction.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
study:</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
“<a href="https://www.msard-journal.com/article/S2211-0348(23)00176-1/fulltext"><span style="color: blue;">Sexual Problems in MS: Sex Differences and Their Impact on
Quality of Life</span></a>” by Drs. T. Kaplan , T. Feldman , B. Healey , M.
Behn , B. Glanz , and T. Chitnis, is published in <b>Multiple Sclerosis and
Related Disorders </b>(Published:March 26, 2023). </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;"> </p>
<p></p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-45206089240102897312023-04-14T15:48:00.005-07:002023-04-14T15:50:19.160-07:00How to Prevent MS Flare-Ups<p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To try to prevent a flare-up from
happening:</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Take meds as directed.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 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. </span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stay healthy.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 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.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Relax.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 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.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Rest.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 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.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stay cool.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 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.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Eat well.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> 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.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Steer clear of smoking</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">. 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.</span></p><p align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">From: <i>WebMD</i> <br /></span></p>
<p></p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-68889720970963548382023-03-06T07:39:00.000-08:002023-03-06T07:39:33.295-08:00New Research Shows Link Between Sleep and Thinking Problems in People with MS<p> A recent study showed that sleep problems and thinking (cognitive)
problems occurred significantly more frequently in nurses with MS than
in nurses who didn’t have MS, and these issues were linked. This means
that sleep problems, which are common in MS, may be a factor in the
development of cognitive problems. Sleep disorders are treatable (see
below). Whether improving sleep can improve cognitive function as well
has yet to be determined.
</p><ul><li><strong>Background: </strong>Sleep difficulties are more common in
people with MS than in the general population. In addition, many people
with MS develop problems with cognitive function, including information
processing and memory. A team from the University of Michigan
investigated whether sleep problems contribute to cognitive problems in
people with MS.</li><li><strong>This Study: </strong>Investigators looked at questionnaires
completed by 63,866 nurses (524 of with MS) enrolled in the Nurses’
Health Study. This ongoing study uses questionnaires to track chronic
conditions and risk factors for chronic conditions in women nurses.
Participants had been asked about diagnosed/suspected sleep disorders
and daytime sleepiness. They also had been asked whether they had
difficulties with memory, or with cognitive tasks such as following
instructions or navigating familiar streets.</li><li><strong>Results: </strong>Sleep disorders, sleepiness, and
cognitive problems were significantly more common in nurses with MS than
in those without MS. Using advanced statistical methods, the group
showed that the occurrence of sleep disorders and sleepiness were
significantly associated with the development of cognitive impairment.</li><li><strong>The Meaning: </strong>Sleep problems and cognitive problems
affect many people with MS. This study shows a possible connection,
meaning that sleep disorders or excessive sleepiness may be leading to
cognitive problems. Further study can help to determine if this is the
case. This is important because sleep disorders are treatable. Research
in people who do not have MS is starting to show that treatment for some
sleep disorders may improve cognition, so there is hope that this may
also be true for people living with MS.</li></ul>
<strong>Learn more…</strong><br />
<a href="https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Living-Well-With-MS/Diet-Exercise-Healthy-Behaviors/Sleep"><strong>Are you sleep deprived? Learn more</strong></a><br />
<a href="https://momentummagazineonline.com/managing-sleep-disorders/"><strong>Get 6 strategies to improve your sleep</strong></a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmsMcHdKJmA"><strong>Watch a webinar - Ask an MS Expert: Sleep and MS</strong></a><br />
<br />
“<a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/13524585221144215">Pathways between multiple sclerosis, sleep disorders, and cognitive function: Longitudinal </a><br />
<a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/13524585221144215">findings from The Nurses’ Health Study</a>,” by Tiffany J Braley , Monica M Shieu, Afsara B. Zaheed and Galit Levi Dunietz, is published in the<strong> MS Journal </strong>(published online January 12, 2023),<br />
mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-38826373267406193732023-02-02T10:57:00.000-08:002023-02-02T10:57:26.394-08:00Genetic Predisposition in MS<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p><strong>Genetic predisposition alone does not lead to MS</strong></p>
<p>Studies in recent years have clearly shown that genetic risk variants are a
necessary condition for developing multiple sclerosis. "Based on our
study, we were able to show that about half of the composition of our immune
system is determined by genetics," says Florian Ingelfinger, a PhD
candidate at the UZH Institute of Experimental Immunology. The study by the
team led by immunologist Burkhard Becher, professor at the Institute of
Experimental Immunology at UZH, and the research groups of Lisa Ann Gerdes and
Eduardo Beltrán of the Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology at the LMU
Klinikum, shows that these genetic influences, while always present in MS
patients, are not on their own sufficient to trigger multiple sclerosis. In the
study, 61 pairs of monozygotic twins where one twin is affected by MS whereas
the co-twin is healthy were examined. From a genetic point of view, the twins
were thus identical. "Although the healthy twins also had the maximum
genetic risk for MS, they showed no clinical signs of the disease," says
Lisa Ann Gerdes.</p>
<p><strong>Twin study eliminates genetic influences</strong></p>
<p>Thanks to this globally unique cohort of identical twins, the researchers
were able to exclude genetic influences by comparing twins with and without
multiple sclerosis. "We are exploring the central question of how the
immune system of two genetically identical individuals leads to significant
inflammation and massive nerve damage in one case, and no damage at all in the
other," explains Burkhard Becher. Using identical twins enabled the
international team of scientists to rule out the genetic influence and
specifically track the immune system changes that were ultimately responsible
for triggering MS in one twin.</p>
<p><strong>Cutting-edge single-cell technologies and artificial intelligence</strong></p>
<p>The researchers harness state-of-the-art technologies to describe the immune
profiles of the twin pairs in rich detail. "We use a combination of mass
cytometry and the latest methods in genetics paired with machine learning to
not only identify characteristic proteins in the immune cells of the sick twin
in each case, but also to decode the totality of all the genes that are
switched on in these cells," Florian Ingelfinger explains. Eduardo
Beltrán, an expert in single-cell genomics, adds: "This ensures that we
obtain as much information as currently technically possible from these
valuable samples." The team uses a variety of tailored algorithms based on
artificial intelligence to extract relevant insights from this immense dataset.</p>
<p id="insertion_middle"><strong>An error in the communication of immune cells</strong></p>
<p>"Surprisingly, we found the biggest differences in the immune profiles
of MS affected twins in to be in the cytokine receptors, i.e. the way immune
cells communicate with one another. The cytokine network is like the language
of the immune system," says Ingelfinger. The researchers found that increased
sensitivity to certain cytokines leads to greater activation of T cells in the
blood of patients with multiple sclerosis. These T cells are more likely to
migrate into the central nervous system of patients and cause damage there. The
identified cells were found to have the characteristics of recently activated
cells, which were in the process of developing into fully functional T cells.
"We may have discovered the cellular big bang of MS here -- precursor
cells that give rise to disease-causing T cells," says Becher.</p>
<p><strong>Important foundation for understanding the influence of genetics and
environment on MS</strong></p>
<p>"The findings of this study are particularly valuable in comparison to
previous studies of MS which do not control for genetic predisposition,"
says Burkhard Becher. "We are thus able to find out which part of the
immune dysfunction in MS is influenced by genetic components and which by
environmental factors. This is of fundamental importance in understanding the
development of the disease." The participating twins were recruited for
the study at the LMU Klinikum. "This unique opportunity to unravel the
influence of genetics and environment in multiple sclerosis is entirely thanks
to our patients who agreed to join the study," said Lisa Ann Gerdes.</p>
<p>University of Zurich. “Multiple sclerosis: Study with twins untangles
environmental and genetic influences.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 16 February
2022. <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/02/220216112303.htm">www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/02/220216112303.htm</a>
</p>
<p></p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-5498252935613760542022-12-23T18:36:00.000-08:002022-12-23T18:36:10.951-08:00What Causes an MS Flare-Up? <p></p><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-indent: 0in;">What triggers a
flare-up is different from person to person. Most of the time, a cause cannot
be found. Still, to lower your chance of a flare-up, do your best to avoid the
things that make them more likely for you:</p>
<h2 style="margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Stress</span></h2>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;">It’s a part of life, but doing what you can to manage
it can lower your chance of a relapse. Meditation, yoga, and counseling are all
ways to lower stress and better equip yourself to handle it. In one study, MS
patients reported their stress level cut nearly in half after 6 weeks of yoga.</p>
<section>
<h2 id="091e9c5e815d9fef-1-3" style="margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Fatigue</span></h2>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;">Lack of sleep can bring a flare-up. Making sleep a
priority will help lower your chance of symptoms. Try to get 7-8 hours each
night.</p>
<h2 style="margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Heat</span></h2>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">High
temperatures may trigger a relapse. If you’re one of those people affected 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. </span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">A cool
bath and air conditioning are two things that can help. Special hats or clothes
that hold ice packs or frozen gel packs can also keep you comfortable. There
are also special vests that use a motorized system to circulate cold water
around the body. If you have an exercise goal, divide the time you exercise
into smaller segments, with rest after each one.</span></p>
<h2 id="091e9c5e815d9fef-2-5" style="margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span></h2></section>
<section><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Infections</b></span>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">They
cause a third of MS flare-ups. To lower your risk:</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormalCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Wash your
hands.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Do what you
can to avoid people who are ill.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Make sure
food you eat is fully cooked.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Practice safe
sex.</span></p>
<p align="left" class="MsoNormalCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Get your
annual flu shot.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Even
minor infections like the cold or flu can trigger a flare-up.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">If you
have an infection, treat it early.</span></p>
<h2 id="091e9c5e815d9fef-2-6" style="margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span></h2></section><section><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Diet</b></span>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">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.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">
A healthy diet helps keep your immune system strong.</span></p>
<h2 id="091e9c5e815d9fef-2-7" style="margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span></h2></section><section><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Medications</b></span>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Skipping
your MS medicine can increase your risk for a flare-up. One study found about
25% of MS patients who stopped taking their medications suffered a relapse.
Certain medications for Crohn’s disease or rheumatoid arthritis may cause
MS-like symptoms. So can drug interactions.</span></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Check
with your doctor to see if there are medications you’re taking that could be
interacting with one another.</span></p>
<h2 id="091e9c5e815d9fef-2-8" style="margin-top: 0in; text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span></h2></section><section><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Smoking</b></span>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Smoking
is a major risk factor for flare-ups. Stop and you’ll lower your chances of
them. Your doctor can help you figure out a game plan.</span></p><p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p><p style="margin-top: 0in;"><a href="https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ms-flare-causes?ecd=wnl_mls_122322&ctr=wnl-mls-122322_lead_cta&mb=q80%2F%40kIeuyYKtyaYzOxdbc6RVoMqf%400VkpmvpK5yEEQ%3D"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"> https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/ms-flare-causes?ecd=wnl_mls_122322&ctr=wnl-mls-122322_lead_cta&mb=q80%2F%40kIeuyYKtyaYzOxdbc6RVoMqf%400VkpmvpK5yEEQ%3D</span></a></p>
<p style="margin-top: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p>
</section>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p> <br /><p></p>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-85859334976335538442022-12-10T09:14:00.001-08:002022-12-10T09:14:43.671-08:00New Advances in MS Treatment<p><span>Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can help decrease your MS symptoms. The FDA has approved new ones to treat and manage MS:</span></p><ul><li><span>Diroximel fumarate (Vumerity) lessens inflammation and stops nerve damage that may cause MS symptoms.</span></li><li><span>Fingolimod (Gilenya) reduces the MS relapse rate in adults and children. It’s the first FDA-approved MS drug for kids. </span></li><li><span>Ofatumumab
(Kesimpta) is an injectable drug that can prevent MS symptoms from
coming back and slow down disability in people with MS.</span></li></ul><p dir="ltr"> <span>More disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) the FDA has approved to treat and manage MS:</span></p><ul><li><span>Ozanimod (Zeposia) can help with clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting MS, and active secondary progressive MS. </span></li><li><span>Ponesimod (Ponvory) can lower MS symptoms coming back by more than 30%.</span></li><li><span>Siponimod
(Mayzent) and cladribine (Mavenclad) are other MS treatments that can
lower your relapse rate if you have MS. They stop certain cells of the
immune system from causing nerve damage. <br /></span><br /><h3 class="iw"><span class="qu" role="gridcell" tabindex="-1"><span class="go"><span aria-hidden="true"></span>health@messages.webmd.com</span></span></h3></li></ul>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7023056384915453013.post-67473743538103433502022-11-11T15:46:00.004-08:002022-11-11T15:46:59.437-08:00Symptoms of Relapsing-Remitting MS<p> </p><section><h2 id="091e9c5e80b858e6-1-2"><br /></h2><p>No
two people with MS are likely to have the same symptoms in the same
way. Some may come and go or appear once and not again. The symptoms you
have depend on the area of your <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/picture-of-the-brain">brain</a> or spinal cord that the disease has damaged. They can include:</p><ul><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-pain-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment">Eye pain</a> and <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/default.htm">vision</a> problems such as <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/double-vision-diplopia-causes-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment">double vision</a> or jumpy <a data-crosslink-type="slideshow" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/ss/slideshow-healthier-eyes">vision</a>. These problems may be the first sign you have RRMS.</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/brain/tingling-in-hands-and-feet">Numbness and tingling</a></li><li>Sensitivity to heat</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/default.htm">Pain</a> that runs down the <a data-crosslink-type="tools" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/rm-quiz-spine-quiz">spine</a>, like a mild electrical shock, when you bend your neck</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/understanding-dizziness-basics">Dizziness</a></li><li>Bowel or <a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/urinary-incontinence-oab/picture-of-the-bladder">bladder</a> problems</li><li>Sexual problems, like trouble getting aroused or climaxing</li><li>Stiff muscles and trouble moving your body</li><li>Feeling weak and <a data-crosslink-type="slideshow" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/ss/slideshow-fatigue-causes-and-remedies">tired</a></li><li>Problems with balance and coordination</li><li>A hard time thinking clearly</li><li><a data-crosslink-type="article" data-metrics-link="" href="https://www.webmd.com/depression/default.htm">Depression</a></li></ul></section><section> <p>An RRMS attack can last anywhere from 24 hours to several weeks. It can involve:</p><div class="module ad emb-center-well-ad" data-google-query-id="CMyOuYmnp_sCFdXT_QUdUSENSA" id="ad-centerwell-pos-141-1"><div id="google_ads_iframe_/4312434/consumer/webmd_10__container__" style="border: 0pt none;"></div></div><ul><li>One or many symptoms</li><li>An existing problem that gets worse</li><li>A new symptom</li></ul><p>Tell
your doctor about signs of a relapse as soon as possible. If you treat
it quickly, you might be able to reduce lasting damage and disability.</p></section>mjnickumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14255478253483720675noreply@blogger.com0