Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Multiple Sclerosis?
A. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society gives the following description of MS:
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease that randomly attacks the central nervous system. Symptoms may be mild such as numbness or tingling in the limbs or severe such as paralysis or loss of vision. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis in any one person cannot yet be predicted. Therefore, a person with Multiple Sclerosis never knows when attacks will occur, how long they will last, or how severe they will be. Multiple Sclerosis is a prime of life disease as most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. The unpredictable physical and emotional effects are lifelong. There are over a third of a million people with Multiple Sclerosis in the U.S. alone and someone is newly diagnosed virtually each hour, with more than twice as many women as men getting the disease.
Q. Is there treatment for Multiple Sclerosis?
A. Yes. There are several treatments for Multiple Sclerosis that have been proven through years of clinical trials to slow the progress of this disease. Each patient should thoroughly research the medications available and discuss options with their neurologist or primary care physician to begin the therapy that is best for your level of disease. We have links to each of the pharmaceutical companies and to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and other resources so that you can locate information about these treatments. We also recommend that you locate a support group in your area so that you can discuss options with others who have this disease and perhaps can give you some personal insight into the treatments they have chosen. It is important to note that people who begin treatment early in the disease process do much better than those who do not.
Q. How do I get a diagnosis?
A. There are several criteria in diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis and each case is different. However, your neurologist or physician will consider your history, your current symptoms and perhaps order an MRI and/or lumbar puncture and lab work. The combination of at least two or all of these will help the physician rule out other similar diseases that are similar to Multiple Sclerosis.
Q. How do I manage other symptoms?
A. Unfortunately people with Multiple Sclerosis may experience a variety of other symptoms such as loss of bladder control, fatigue, pain, cognitive deficits, and more. Most of these symptoms can be easily controlled with medications and living a healthy lifestyle. Keeping track of any new symptoms is essential in getting to know your body, the course of your disease and appropriate treatment options. Finding a physician such as an internist or family doctor who is knowledgeable about Multiple Sclerosis will also be important in managing your symptoms. Exercise such as swimming or yoga should be a part of your daily activities as well as eating a healthy diet. More information about symptom management can be found at the links we have provided as well.
Q. Can I continue to work with Multiple Sclerosis?
A. While each person is different, as are their symptoms, we feel people who work, exercise, and essentially lead active lives do much better than those that do not. You may need to work with your company to ask for some accommodations such as adaptable equipment or more frequent breaks yet you should continue to work as long as you are comfortable. There are many examples of people who live full and productive lives while living with Multiple Sclerosis. If you find your syptoms are making it difficult to perform at your job, work with your local Division of Vocational Rehabilitation to see if there are other options for employment or retraining that might accommodate any disabilities you have. Most importantly, keep active, keep positive and keep moving!
Q. How do I talk to my children and family about my diagnosis?
A. The Alaska MS Center has a wonderful collection of booklets that can help you discuss your disease and symptoms with your family. you can also access helpful information provided in our links section. Families need to understand your disease and some of the symptoms that affect your daily life, such as fatigue. This might mean that your routine will change and that you may need more rest before going to school activities or some support with cleaning, shopping and other chores. Accessing the information that is available to help you discuss your disease will help your family, friends and you be more comfortable with the changes you may face from day to day.