Living with Multiple Sclerosis

The first question most people have when they receive a multiple sclerosis diagnosis is, "What can I expect?" That question is not always easy to answer, because the course of disease is often unpredictable. A particularly difficult flare-up may have you very concerned that your disease is progressing rapidly, but then your symptoms disappear and don't return for years. Or you may have a relatively mild flare-up but be left with residual disability in the affected area. This unpredictability is often the most challenging aspect of living with multiple sclerosis. However, there are several things you can do to help you take greater control in managing multiple sclerosis.

If you think you may have MS, see a neurologist.

If you are having symptoms such as tingling, numbness, blurred vision, muscle weakness, or lack of coordination, it's very important you see a neurologist for evaluation. Your primary care physician may be able to refer you to a neurologist with experience in multiple sclerosis. It's important to get an accurate diagnosis so you can start treatment with one of the disease-modifying drugs as soon as possible.

Start MS treatment early.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends beginning multiple sclerosis treatment as soon as a positive multiple sclerosis diagnosis is made. Since permanent damage can occur even in the earliest stages of the disease, it is important to begin multiple sclerosis treatment as early as possible. Disease-modifying drugs, such as AVONEX, treat the underlying disease to help reduce the number of flare-ups (relapses) and slow the progression of physical disability.

Work with your healthcare team.

Once you have a multiple sclerosis diagnosis, start putting together a healthcare team you're comfortable with. Then work closely with your physicians to manage your symptoms and underlying disease. Having a good primary care physician, a neurologist and an ophthalmologist, each experienced in treating people with multiple sclerosis, can go a long way in helping you manage MS over the long term.

Take advantage of help that is available

If you have multiple sclerosis, you're not alone. Four hundred thousand Americans also have the disease. Many advocacy organizations and support groups are available that can help you move forward living with multiple sclerosis. Physical therapy, occupational therapy and an abundance of modern assistive devices are available to help you deal with the physical challenges of the disease as they arise. Social workers and counselors can also help you address the emotional, financial, and employment challenges you may face. You don't have to go it alone with multiple sclerosis. Help is available. Take advantage of as much as you can.

Stay hopeful.

Living with multiple sclerosis can be challenging. No question about it. But it is not fatal. Many people even say the diagnosis comes as a relief because it means they don't have cancer and they're not going crazy. With disease-modifying drugs, such as AVONEX, you can reduce the number of flare-ups and delay the progression of disability. Meanwhile, researchers are hard at work searching for more effective treatments and for a multiple sclerosis cure. There is a lot to be hopeful about, so hang in there.

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