What To Do When First Diagnosed With MS

Navigating a New Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

If you’re dealing with a recent diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), you may feel like you just got a puzzle without a picture on the box. You know you need to make a plan, but where do you even begin? I’m here to help you with that.

The Modern Health Landscape

In the time we live in, because of the way we live, because of the way we eat, there are more and more various diseases in the world. Employed people have less and less time for physical activities or for “meals at the family table”. Fast food and food delivery agencies are more and more numerous. Multiple sclerosis is on the rise, but also other diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes in children or the increase in the number of children with autism, where it is estimated that by 2050, every 50 children will have autism. Where to look for the cause of all this? So, maybe we could call our disease a “condition”.

Understanding Your Diagnosis

You will probably be confused because you won’t get any precise answers at the start. When you receive a diagnosis after all the analyses that are done on you, then your journey is just beginning. It is important to know that it is not a disease from which one dies!

In the beginning, it is very important to familiarize yourself with the disease. MS is a disease that causes the immune system to attack the body’s central nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve), damaging the fatty substance that protects and surrounds nerve fibres called myelin. Damaged or destroyed nerve fibres cause messages from the central nervous system to be disrupted or stopped altogether. In fact, these damages are in the form of pimples or as they are called “lesions”. When these lesions become inflamed for some reason, then we have a problem, and we feel it through different forms and differently for each person. This is called an attack or relapse or recidive. Generally, although it depends on the severity of the recurrence, it is treated with large amounts of corticosteroids in order to reduce the inflammation and somehow protect the nerve on which the lesion is located so that it does not get damaged. And of course, if it’s a mild relapse, then it can also be done in another way. It can be physical therapy or certain doses of vitamins, etc.

The Role of Vitamin D3

Your neurologist probably told you at the beginning that you have to include vitamin D as a mandatory therapy. Many studies have been done on this topic and the association of MS with vitamin D3 deficiency. Some studies directly link vitamin D3 deficiency with relapse. So, don’t let yourself be deficient in vitamin D3!

Harnessing the Power of Vitamin D3

D3 is also called the “sun” vitamin. Use sunlight wisely whenever you can AND use supplements advised by your neurologist. If not, don’t worry there is a large number of vitamin D3 on the market. One of the novelties of the last decade is I cream of vitamin D3. It is used by rubbing it on certain parts of the body and the skin absorbs as much as it needs.

Therapeutic Options for Multiple Sclerosis Patients

The next step is to agree on therapy with your neurologist. I tried to list and briefly describe all the drugs available for treating multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term condition affecting the central nervous system, with around 2.5 million people worldwide affected. There are three main types:

1. Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS): Characterized by sudden worsening of symptoms followed by periods of recovery. Without treatment, many patients progress to a secondary progressive phase (SPMS).
2. Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS): In this phase, there’s a continuous accumulation of neurological problems and disability.
3. Primary Progressive MS (PPMS): Progresses steadily from the beginning.

To manage MS, there are now 15 drugs available that can modify its course, reduce relapses, and slow progression. These drugs can be divided into two main categories:

1. First-Line Therapy: Includes drugs like interferon-beta (INF-β), glatiramer acetate, teriflunomide, and dimethyl fumarate. These are typically used for RRMS.
2. Highly Effective Therapy: Such as fingolimod, cladribine, and monoclonal antibodies like natalizumab, alemtuzumab, and ocrelizumab. These are used for more aggressive forms of MS.

For example, INF-β, one of the first drugs used for MS, reduces relapse frequency and slows disease progression. It’s generally safe, though side effects like flu-like symptoms can occur.

Glatiramer acetate and teriflunomide also modify the immune response, reducing relapses and slowing disability progression.

Fingolimod, a newer oral therapy, prevents lymphocytes from entering the bloodstream, reducing relapses and slowing brain damage.

Natalizumab, an antibody therapy, prevents immune cells from entering the brain, reducing relapses and slowing disability progression.

Alemtuzumab destroys and replenishes lymphocytes, leading to a significant reduction in relapses and disability progression.

Ocrelizumab is the first drug approved for both RRMS and PPMS, targeting specific immune cells to reduce relapses and brain damage.

While these drugs are effective, they can have side effects, including an increased risk of infections and, in rare cases, serious conditions like progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Regular monitoring and careful consideration of risks are essential.

In addition to these drugs, ongoing research is exploring other potential treatments for MS, offering hope for improved outcomes in the future.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK222385/

Empowering Actions for Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Once you’ve consulted with your neurologist and discussed therapy options, the next crucial step is to take proactive measures to manage your condition effectively. Here are some actionable steps to incorporate into your lifestyle:

Navigating Lifestyle Changes

MS may be a part of your journey, but it doesn’t define who you are or what you can achieve

And now you enter the scene. These are not drastic changes, but changes aimed at a healthier way of life.

• Revamp Your Diet: Multiple sclerosis counsellors often recommend adopting a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. This dietary approach has been associated with various health benefits, including potentially reducing inflammation and improving overall well-being.
• Embrace Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise into your routine can have numerous benefits for managing MS symptoms. From improving mobility and balance to boosting mood and energy levels, physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining overall health. Consult with your healthcare provider to develop an exercise plan tailored to your abilities and preferences.
• Prioritize Mental Health: Managing the emotional impact of MS is essential for overall well-being. Focus on strengthening your self-confidence, practising stress management techniques, and seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals when needed. Maintaining a positive outlook and engaging in activities that bring you joy can help enhance your quality of life.
• Quit Smoking: If you’re a smoker, taking steps to reduce and eventually quit smoking is crucial for managing MS. Smoking has been linked to worsening MS symptoms and disease progression, so quitting can significantly benefit your health and well-being.
• Stay Mindful of Temperature and Infections: High temperatures and infections can exacerbate MS symptoms, so it’s essential to take precautions to avoid overheating and minimize the risk of infections. Stay hydrated, seek shade or air conditioning during hot weather, and practice good hygiene to reduce the likelihood of infections.
• Address Other Health Concerns: Managing other health conditions you may have is equally important for effectively managing MS. Be proactive about treating any comorbidities and work closely with your healthcare team to ensure comprehensive care.

Embracing a Healthier Future

By embracing these proactive steps, you’ll not only feel better and healthier but also gain more energy and resilience to navigate life’s challenges. Additionally, adhering to these lifestyle changes can help reduce the frequency of relapses and slow down the progression of the disease.

Remember, you are stronger than you know, and you have a community of support behind you every step of the way. Keep pushing forward with courage and positivity!

Elena