Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a major cause of neurological disability in young adults. There are at least five major factors of psychological adjustment to MS.

1. The personality of the patient
The first factor of psychological adjustment to multiple sclerosis is the personality of the patient. Some patients adapt quickly to new life whereas others are trapped in the stage of disbelief and continue to be depressed for a long time after the diagnosis.

2. The quality of Family support
The second factor of psychological adjustment to multiple sclerosis is the quality of support available to the patient within his family. All stakeholders should have an idea about the family dynamics before, during and after diagnosis. They should ask the following questions: Does the patient have a life together? What kind of relationship the patient has with his close relatives (children, spouse, and extended family)? The answers to these questions are important because the psychological suffering of a patient may result from tensions within his family (rejection, stigma, exclusion, indifference). Often a psychological maltreatment develops between the patient and his relatives; they feel unable to bear the daily progress of the disease.

3. The skills of social openness
The skills of social openness are the third factor of psychological adjustment to multiple sclerosis. They in fact correspond to how the patient is able to seek support and mental peace in his surroundings especially his family and friends. It helps the patient feel supported in the unhappy moments. Continuing his or her job helps the patient cope up with the new realities associated with the disease because continuing work lifts up the spirit of the patient and fills him with the feeling of productivity.

4. The quality of the relationship with the doctor
The quality of the relationship of the patient with the doctors (in the broadest sense, which also includes paramedical workers also) plays as a factor in psychological adjustment to multiple sclerosis. The patient has a high level of dependence on his doctor for psychological support as well as for the management of the disease.

5. The disease
The disease and its prognosis play an important role in the psychological adjustment of patients with multiple sclerosis. If the disease progresses slowly, the patient gets accustomed to his newly acquired disabilities gradually but if the disease has a rapid progression, the patient can not adjust and his life is compromised both physically and psychologically.

These factors play a vital role in the quality of life of the patient with multiple sclerosis. Obviously the most important factor is the personality of the patient who can adjust with the development of the disease as it progresses.

The author Javed Anwar reveals a natural way to cure multiple sclerosis in his latest article at http://signsnsymptoms.com/Signs-Symptoms-Multiple-Sclerosis.html

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has a considerable impact on quality of life of patients and may induce a depressive syndrome that is expressed most often by instability, worry, discouragement, or restlessness.

Quality of life encompasses three main areas: physical, psychological and social. These three areas are strongly interlinked, social integration is often dependent on the physical and psychological impact of the disease.

Multiple sclerosis affects life at all levels: family, social relations, emotional life, professional life, hobbies and financial equilibrium. The changing nature and unpredictability of the disease hinders many patients in the realization of a life oriented to the future. It appears that, when given the right tools, people with MS manage to make a place for the disease in their life and to live a meaningful life with the support of their loved ones.

Multiple sclerosis is a major cause of neurological disability in young adults and often leads to a loss of employment a few years after diagnosis, the average age of life where work is often considered not only necessary to provide for his needs, but also a powerful factor of social integration. The disease appears, moreover, to be a barrier to access to promotion or training.

The rate of absenteeism caused by MS is on average 30 days per year and only slightly higher than for general diseases. Multiple sclerosis patients do not have a greater risk of accidents at work. The two major factors that cause work stoppages are fatigue and physical disorders. In general they have a strong desire to retain their jobs. At first they are afraid of losing their position and express anxiety both at relational and professional level. But after several years of experience, they appreciate their employability as very positive. They feel more welcome at work and at home, their sense of security greatly improves and their vitality increases considerably.

Nearly half of the multiple sclerosis patients retain the ability to work after they have ceased their occupational activity. Fatigue and cognitive impairment are often mentioned by patients as factors to explain their work stoppage. In the ability to maintain employment, personal attributes, the positive face of disease, environmental factors such as financial situations and family should be taken into account.

In terms of independent living and daily travel arrangements, the rehabilitation of patients of multiple sclerosis is necessarily linked to the severity of impairments and disabilities. The pursuit of an occupation is certainly an important factor in the quality of life. Hence the importance of providing people with multiple sclerosis the information and guidance in choosing the appropriate type of job and workplace.

People with Multiple sclerosis can live a normal life provided they are supported by their family, friends, colleagues, health care professionals and rehabilitation agencies.

The author Javed Anwar reveals a natural way to cure multiple sclerosis in his latest article at http://signsnsymptoms.com/Signs-Symptoms-Multiple-Sclerosis.html

Multiple sclerosis is a frustrating disease because the current treatments are few and at present, there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but the available drugs can slow the disease course. Synthetic forms of beta interferon (a natural immunomodulator that regulates the immune response) reduce the frequency and severity of relapses and decrease the degree of disability over time.

Glatiramer acetate is a mixture of synthetic polymers which may act as a decoy for the immune system, dilutes the attack on myelin which covers the cells in the brain and spinal cord. For this reason, you can decrease the frequency of relapses, which in turn reduces the progression of disease.

There are treatments for specific symptoms, such as steroids (which are usually given in high doses intravenously for a few days, between 3 and 5), which can shorten the duration of an attack. Some drugs can alleviate spasticity, fatigue and disorders of micturition.

People with MS tend to verify that non-pharmacological treatments such as regular exercise and adequate rest can help them maintain a more active life. Physical therapy and exercise can help strengthen the weakened muscles and improve coordination. Occupational therapy can improve the skills to teach everyday people how to cope with multiple sclerosis with a reduced capacity of movement and speech therapy can improve the difficulties in speaking and swallowing.

Advances in research may help people affected by multiple sclerosis and their families. At present, investigations are focused on ways to block the specific immune cells that attack myelin, and how to harness the natural growth factors that can stimulate the replenishment of tissues destroyed by disease. It also seeks to prevent the axonal degeneration that causes the progression of disability in the advanced forms.

One of the pioneers in the nutritional treatment of Multiple Sclerosis is Dr. Roy Swank, Professor of Neurology at the School of Medicine, University of Oregon.

The key nutritional recommendations, according to Dr. Swank, are: 1) saturated fat intake of no more than 10 grams per day. 2) A daily intake of 40 to 50 grams of polyunsaturated oils (margarine and hydrogenated oils are not permitted). 3) At least a daily spoonful of cod liver oil. 4) It allows the normal intake of protein and 5) Fish consumption, should be three or more times a week.

Another novelty in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis is the use of electromagnetic fields. This is very important to clarify that the electromagnetic fields that are used in this case are low intensity, extremely low frequencies and carefully controlled. These applications are extra-cranial and are 20 minutes once a week. The results are variable and more research is needed to refine this form of treatment.

Hopefully the medical science will soon find a definitive treatment for multiple sclerosis so that this disabling disease is controlled right in the beginning of its course.

The author Javed Anwar discloses a natural way to cure multiple sclerosis in his latest article at http://signsnsymptoms.com/Signs-Symptoms-Multiple-Sclerosis.html

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic disease diagnosed primarily in young adults, who often start to feel symptoms between 20 and 40 years. Multiple sclerosis (from the Greek ‘hardening’) is a disease of the central nervous system that affects the brain, brain stem and spinal cord. Myelin, the substance that coats nerve fibers, is damaged, and then the ability of nerves to lead the orders of the brain is interrupted. This is the most common chronic disease in young adults in Europe and the second leading cause of disability in this population group, after accidents.

Most researchers believe that MS is an autoimmune disease in which the body launches a defensive attack against its own tissues, including myelin. For this reason, it is possible that these attacks of immune system are associated with an environmental component of unknown origin, perhaps a virus. Probably some genetic predisposition also plays the role.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

There are no typical symptoms of MS to assist with the initial diagnosis. Even it is usual that the first episodes go unnoticed by the vagueness of the symptoms. Often the first signs appear as vision problems, either in the form of blurred vision, double vision or vision loss.

Most patients also experience abnormal sensations such as tingling, numbness and itching, loss of strength in the arms or legs, and disorders of balance or coordination. Also common are dizziness, problems urinating or defecating, nonspecific pain, changes in character, and so on.

Types of Multiple Sclerosis

The appearance and disappearance of unexplained symptoms usually characterize the initial diagnosis of MS. Although each individual shows a different evolution, the disease usually manifests itself first in a series of attacks, followed by a complete or partial remission, which is subsequently repeated with alternating periods of improvement. This is known as multiple sclerosis, relapse-remission, the most common form of the disease.

For its part, the secondary-progressive form begins as above but then gradually gets worse, with no significant improvement and an accumulation of neurological symptoms. In other cases, these disorders progress slowly from the beginning with little relief, but no clear improvement (primary-progressive MS). Over time, muscle weakness, lack of coordination, balance problems, muscle stiffness, tingling and the other disorders such as bladder control, pain or fatigue may become more frequent and severe.

In addition, 20% of patients suffering from a benign form of the disease in which symptoms regress after the initial attack and then the patients continue with a virtually normal life. In the case of malignant sclerosis, deterioration is rapid and progressive and has a significant disability. In very rare cases the disease is fatal but most patients have a normal life expectancy.

Diagnosis

MRI and the study of cerebrospinal fluid are done to confirm the diagnosis. MRI can help locate the lesions in the central nervous system. These are called ‘plaques’ and are areas where myelin has been lost. Usually they are small and scattered in a diffuse pattern. Other sites of lesions are the optic nerves, the brain stem and spinal cord.

The specific treatment of each symptom is important to offer a better quality of life for patients, while rehabilitation is designed to preserve the functionality in their daily lives and prevent further disabilities. They often require nursing care and psychological care.

The author Javed Anwar reveals a natural way to cure multiple sclerosis in his latest article at http://signsnsymptoms.com/Signs-Symptoms-Multiple-Sclerosis.html

Yesterday in my wanderings though the internet I found some rather interesting information, some of which I’m not so sure I agree with.

One particular reply stated, I don’t really like the phrases conquer MS or healing MS or beating MS.
MS is something which we learn to adapt to, no matter the extent of the disease or its progression. We learn to live with MS or survive MS.

My thought about this statement is, you feel that there is no hope for the future. That adapting is all you expect and all you can do. If you don’t think there is any chance of improvement, healing, and hope, than why would you believe you can conquer a disease?

Folks, a year and a half ago I couldn’t walk from my bed to my bathroom. I had to crawl.

. 8 months ago I had such severe anxiety that I sat and cried on an airplane next to my wife coming home from a vacation.

. Two years ago I was deeply depressed over loosing my eyesight and driver’s license, a man at 34 loosing all independence.

. 2 years ago I was told to go on Novantrone to prevent myself from going into a wheelchair

. 24 months ago I was using a cane.

Folks, these are all things I USED to do.

Here is what my life looks like today.

-I no longer have anxiety I have peace.

-I no longer have a cane, I gave it to Goodwill.

-I do not take Novantrone, but continue with Rebif- a less powerful drug.

-I am no longer depressed about my eyesight and believe it will return in the future.

-I no longer crawl to the bathroom but walk 1.5 miles each day.

-I believed I could conquer multiple sclerosis, and I believe in myself.

-I believed I could heal myself.

-I believed I could beat this disease.

-I believed most of all in hope, love, and a higher spirit in myself who deserved to be free and healthy.

Here is a quote I received yesterday from a good friend of mine, an Ophthalmologist in Biloxi, MS

There is an entire dimension to human health that none of us really understand. I have patients who should not see but somehow are able to see. I also have patients who seemingly have nothing wrong with them and yet claim that they cannot see. I think that sometimes instead of measuring vision, I end up measuring the will or spirit of a patient.

Choose and believe in yourself and seek wisdom.

And friends, if you don’t believe me here is the proof.

Robert Groth is the author of “Conquer Multiple Sclerosis”. To receive a FREE ebook on reclaiming your life and conquering Multiple Sclerosis go to http://www.ConquerMS.com

I’ve talked to a number of people in the last week who have told me just how important it is to have a spouses view of MS. And this is true MS affects everyone-wives, husbands, parents, boyfriends, and girlfriends. So what I will reveal in this article is a bunch of realizations I’ve had about my husband and MS. Things that I’ve learned over the last 13 years of wedded bliss.

#1 I learned that I myself was in denial about the disease MS. When I first met my husband he told me that he had MS and that his father probably had it too. I in turn looked at his father and thought, well, he goes to work everyday, looks normal, and does everything that everyone else does. Yes, folks I was in denial. I thought just because his Dad was fine he would be fine. Not so. Robert has had some rough times and I didn’t realize that MS had a physical factor but emotional one as well. My husband looked great, but underneath it all he was suffering from a variety of emotional issues that stemmed from having multiple sclerosis.

#2 Second thing I learned is that there is a very, very, fine between who my husband is and what MS is in his life. Are the angry outbursts, anxiety, and fatigue multiple sclerosis or my husband Robert Groth? Where is the line between who he really is and his personality and the symptoms of MS and the effect they have on him? No one can really answer this question.

#3 Multiple Sclerosis is a very prominent part of our lives. Not just his life, but OUR lives. Yes, my husband has MS, but in a way I do too. I don’t have the physical symptoms but I am so aware and in tune with my husband that I live multiple sclerosis though him each and every day.

Multiple Sclerosis I must say has taken us on a journey, one of many twists and turns. One where my husband and I are still discovering who we are and where we are going. Is that MS? Or is that just real life? Some of you may say both or one or the other.

Folks, tell us what is your experience with your spouse and multiple sclerosis. We would love to hear from you all.

Robert Groth is the author of “Conquer Multiple Sclerosis”. To receive a FREE ebook on reclaiming your life and conquering Multiple Sclerosis go to http://www.ConquerMS.com

Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue is one of the number one symptoms and complaints of multiple sclerosis. And unfortunately one of the #1 reasons that many people with MS end up on disability. Multiple Sclerosis fatigue is real, and a prominent symptom for as many as 85-95% of those with MS.

Here are 15 ways to fight against fatigue. Just the little things that you do each and every day can make a difference.

1. Be aware of medication side effects. Anti-depressants are well known to have a side effect of fatigue. Talk with your doctor and determine what side effects each medication your on has.

2. Drink a sufficient amount of water: Dehydration can cause fatigue and many people with MS don’t like to drink water because they suffer from an over active bladder.- I’m guilty of this one. Our bodies need water for energy and to remove toxins, so don’t scrimp on this one.

3. Improper breathing: Shallow, short breathes will reduce the amount of oxygen coming to your cells, therefore making you feel fatigued.

4. Not exercising: Ok, so you’ve heard this one a number of times on how exercise increases energy. There’s no excuses regardless of what level you are at with your MS.

5. Depression: Not accepting multiple sclerosis, being depressed about your current life will cause depression and the by product fatigue.

6. Too much heat: Heat increases your disabilities and fatigue and just makes you feel bad. Anytime out in warm weather I can go from walking normally to barely walking at all. Stay out of the heat, use a cooling vest, and look for activities that keep you cool like swimming.

7. Avoid Simple Carbohydrates: White bread, white pasta, and sugar slow you down and fatigue you. Keep up on a diet of whole foods consisting of fruits and veggies.

8. Vary Routine: Toss up your normal daily schedule. Each one of us needs some variety each day.Plan something for the future that you can look forward to.

9. Experiment with aromatherapy: Peppermint and jasmine essentials oils are known to be energizing. Put a few drops on your collar of your shirt to smell during the day, or take the container of peppermint with you and take a sniff when your feeling fatigued.

10. Go to bed at the same time every night Most people don’t get enough sleep, and leg spasticity may be keeping you up at night.

11. Reduce your weight: Being overweight will make you feel fatigued. Watch what you’re eating and exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

12. Not Pacing, Planning, or Prioritizing Your Life: It’s important to have balance in your life. It’s important to balance fatigue and rest. Devise a plan on what needs to be done and organize your tasks so that they are manageable.

13. Eating Breakfast Everyday: When you first wake up your blood sugar is low, eating a proper breakfast is an energy booster. Skipping breakfast drains your energy contributing to fatigue.

14. Check out your iron levels: If you’re not getting enough iron that you may feel fatigued. Eat fish, eggs, fortified cereals, and beans to fight against multiple sclerosis fatigue.

15. Last but not least: Fatigue is a symptom of MS and you should not feel bad when asking for help. Spend your energy on what matters and determine what you can ask others for in helping you conserve your valuable resources.

Robert Groth is the author of “Conquer Multiple Sclerosis”. To receive a FREE ebook on reclaiming your life and conquering Multiple Sclerosis go to http://www.ConquerMS.com