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Navigating Life After a Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis (MS): A Guide to Moving Forward
Credits: Canva
SummaryReceiving a multiple sclerosis diagnosis can be daunting, but with the correct knowledge, support, and self-care, you can face this new chapter with strength and confidence.
Getting a multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis done can be an episode that may end up being overwhelming and terrifying to some. One may feel a variety of feelings, such as fear, uncertainty, despair, anger—or even relief, for finally discovering the reason behind the prevailing symptoms.
It's vital to realise that these feelings are perfectly natural. There are an estimated 2.8 million people living with MS globally.
While everyone's emotional path following an MS diagnosis is unique, there are helpful tools, support networks, and tangible measures to assist you in negotiating this new chapter in your life.
Learning as much as you can about multiple sclerosis is one of the first things you can do after being diagnosed. Being informed is empowering and helps lessen the anxiety and dread that frequently accompany receiving a diagnosis. Being informed is empowering and helps lessen the anxiety and dread that frequently accompany receiving a diagnosis.
Chronic disease specialist clinical psychologist Tiffany Taft, PsyD, suggests looking for information from reputable sites including the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, the National MS Society, and Healthline's in-depth reference to MS. Recognising the various forms of MS is essential to anticipating potential future symptoms. Among these kinds are:
- Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS): A single episode of neurological symptoms lasting at least 24 hours.
- Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS): Characterized by periods of flare-ups followed by remissions.
- Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS): A gradual worsening of symptoms, often seen in midlife.
- Primary Progressive MS (PPMS): Progressive worsening of symptoms from the outset.
Since every variety of MS is unique, your treatment strategy will depend on a number of variables, such as your lifestyle and symptoms.
Treatment Options and Managing Symptoms
Although MS cannot be cured, there are numerous medications that can help manage its varying symptoms and eventually slow the disease's progression.
Providing disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), particularly for individuals with RRMS is a common practice. While it does not completely treat typical symptoms like pain or fatigue, it can reduce the frequency and severity of relapses. Your doctor will also discuss the treatment choices for your everyday symptoms.
How to take care of yourself?
It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle can also have a positive influence on MS. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and exercising regularly can help your body manage with the MS effects. Keeping a journal, practicing yoga, and meditation are also effective ways to manage emotions and stress.
Work and Financial Considerations
It is up to the patient to decide when to tell their employer about having multiple sclerosis. It may be required to reveal the condition, if you require accommodations, such as a closer parking space or a flexible work schedule.
Employees with MS are protected against discrimination, and employers are required to offer reasonable adjustments under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Given the unpredictable nature of MS, financial planning remains an important concern. The National MS Society offers resources and consultations to help you plan for the future and ensure that you have the financial assistance you need as you navigate life with multiple sclerosis.
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