Multiple Sclerosis Care and Prevention

Preserving neurological function and preventing axonal degeneration.

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Multiple Sclerosis: Care and Prevention

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MS cannot be completely prevented, but you can slow its progression and avoid complications with good care and healthy lifestyle changes. Recovery with MS is about being resilient, adapting to changes, making the most of your abilities, and supporting your brain health. Combining medical treatment with wellness strategies is the best way to live well with MS.

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Lifestyle Modifications

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Making healthy lifestyle changes can make a real difference in how MS affects you.

  • Smoking Cessation: This is the most critical lifestyle change. Smoking accelerates brain atrophy and transition to progressive MS.
  • Exercise: Regular aerobic and resistance training preserves muscle mass, improves mood, and fights fatigue.
  • Sleep Hygiene: Prioritizing 7-9 hours of sleep is vital for repairing cellular damage and managing cognitive fog.
  • Weight Management: Obesity is pro-inflammatory and can worsen mobility issues; maintaining a healthy weight reduces the burden on joints.
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Diet and Nutrition

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While no specific “MS Diet” has been proven universally, nutrition plays a role in controlling inflammation.

  • Vitamin D: Supplementation is standard care, as high Vitamin D levels are associated with lower disease activity.
  • Mediterranean Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, and healthy fats (such as olive oil), this diet is recommended for its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Gut Health: A healthy microbiome may influence the immune system; probiotics and fiber are beneficial.
  • Salt Intake: Some studies suggest high salt intake may increase autoimmune activity, so moderation is advised.

Monitoring Disease Progression

The EDSS Scale

The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is the standard method used by neurologists to track disability progression over time.

  • Scale: Ranges from 0 (routine exam) to 10 (death from MS).
  • Focus: Heavily weighted towards walking ability, but also assesses vision, coordination, and bowel/bladder function.
  • Frequency: Assessed at regular clinic visits to determine if the current treatment is effective.
  • Goal: To keep the score stable. An increase in score usually triggers a review of the treatment plan.

MRI Surveillance

Regular imaging is proacGetting regular scans is a proactive way to care for yourself. Waiting until symptoms appear is often too late.rformed once a year, or sooner if new symptoms appear.

  • NEDA-3: The target of “No Evidence of Disease Activity” is assessed by combining MRI results (no new lesions), relapse history (none), and EDSS score (no worsening).
  • Brain Volume: Advanced monitoring may also track brain atrophy (shrinkage), which is a marker of long-term neurodegeneration.
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Mental Health Support

Living with a long-term, unpredictable illness like MS can be hard on your mental health, so it’s important to take care of your emotional well-being.

  • Depression Screening: Depression is a symptom of the disease itself, not just a reaction to it. It requires treatment with therapy or medication.
  • Anxiety Management: Fear of the future and potential disability is common. Mindfulness and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) are practical tools.
  • Support Groups: Connecting with others who understand the unique challenges of MS helps reduce isolation.
  • Cognitive Training: Engaging in brain games and intellectual activities helps build “cognitive reserve.”

Managing Complications

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Preventing secondary complications is as vital as treating the MS itself.

  • Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common due to bladder dysfunction and can trigger false relapses. Hygiene and hydration are key.
  • Pressure Sores: For those with limited mobility, regular position changes and skin care help prevent ulcers.
  • Bone Health: Steroid use and inactivity increase the risk of osteoporosis. Calcium supplements and density scans are essential.
  • Fall Prevention: Using assistive devices (canes, braces) when necessary prevents fractures and injuries.

Pregnancy and Reproductive Health

MS does not mean you cannot start a family, but it requires planning.

  • Pregnancy: Disease activity often drops during pregnancy but may rebound in the postpartum period.
  • Medication Washout: Some drugs (like teriflunomide) are teratogenic and must be cleared from the body before conception.
  • Breastfeeding: Exclusive breastfeeding may protect against postpartum relapses.
  • Planning: Consulting with the neurologist well in advance is essential to switch to pregnancy-safe medications if needed.

Why Choose Liv Hospital

Liv Hospital is committed to supporting our MS patients for the long term. We offer more than just prescriptions—we provide a full “Life with MS” program. This includes access to dietitians, psychologists who understand chronic illness, and a rehab team focused on keeping you active. We monitor your health closely to catch any changes early. Our goal is to give you the tools, knowledge, and support you need to live your life on your own terms, not just by your diagnosis.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I exercise safely?

Yes! Exercise is strongly encouraged. It does not make MS worse. Just be sure to listen to your body and avoid getting too hot.

In most cases, yes. Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended. However, if you are taking immunosuppressive drugs, you should avoid live vaccines like Yellow Fever.

Diet cannot cure MS, but eating a heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory diet can boost your energy and lower the risk of other health problems that can make MS worse.

Drinking alcohol in moderation is usually safe, but it can temporarily make balance and coordination problems worse.

You should usually see your neurologist every 6 to 12 months, even if you feel well. Regular check-ups are the best way to make sure the disease is not active without symptoms.

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