Effective Ways to Manage MS Symptoms

Effective Ways to Manage MS Symptoms

People with multiple sclerosis might experience an array of symptoms. All of these symptoms may be of varying severity. The symptoms typically depend on the nervous system part, which is affected, and the extent to which it is affected. Though you will be undergoing treatment and medication to treat multiple sclerosis and avoid symptoms, some tips can come in handy for managing multiple sclerosis symptoms. Let us address these tips one by one. 

1. Exercise
In people with mild to moderate MS symptoms, regular exercising can better body strength. Further, it also helps improve coordination, balance, and tone muscles. Water exercises and swimming are also too excellent options if heat bothers you. Other kinds of moderate or mild exercises that you can try are stretching, walking, stationary bicycling, Tai Chi, low-impact aerobics, and yoga.  

2. Create convenience
Creating convenience lowers your daily energy demands. You will be surprised how small changes can bring in a considerable difference. Here are some simple examples of what you can do to create convenience either for yourself or for someone with multiple sclerosis:

  • Maintain a journal; it can be both digital and hand-written. It will help ensure that all the information that is required about your condition is in one place. 
  • Consider using speech-to-text software; it can be a great help as you do not have to type on the computer. 
  • Keep everything that you frequently use accessible. 
  • Use some occupational therapy tools to help you with fine motor tasks, such as opening jars or pulling on the socks. 
  • Buy a mini-fridge for your room wherein you spend maximum time.
  • Download an application on your smartphone where you can set reminders.
  • Seek help from family or friends, if and when required. 

3. Get adequate rest
Make it a point to get adequate rest possible. Keep a check on your sleeping habits to ensure that you are getting the necessary sleep. To ensure that you are getting sufficient sleep, you need to get yourself examined and possibly treated to ensure that you do not suffer from any sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea.

4. Plan for comfort
Some people with MS are susceptible to environmental changes. It implies that they may experience symptom flare-ups when they feel too warm. It is not actual disease progression. This means that you will see a decline in the symptoms when the heat is lowered. 

For managing multiple sclerosis symptoms arising from overheating, you can: 

  • Invest in some hot we.ather clothing with gel packs to keep you cool
  • Shop for cooling pads for your mattress
  • Buy a firmer mattress with a cooling surface
  • Keep yourself hydrated
  • Enjoy cold baths
  • Use AC or fans in your home

To keep your body comfortable while sleeping, you can: 

  • Place a pillow underneath your knees to lower the pressure on the back 
  • Work on your core strength to reduce neck, joint, and back pain 
  • Stretch every day to reduce spasticity and muscle soreness