Can Do MS

Adaptations during exercise and sport can become very useful when living with MS. Often times, we are not able to exercise the same. Maintaining an exercise program with MS is important as research suggests, but it is how one exercises that is imperative. As the saying goes, it is easier said than done. When we think of exercise, many automatically think the gym, but there are many resources that can be used outside of a gym setting.

Cognition and communication challenges affect approximately 50-66% of those with MS. Impairment can range from mild to severe, but most MS-related cognitive changes fall in the mild to moderate range. However, even subtle changes in cognition can be distressing and can have a significant impact on daily function. Cognitive changes and fatigue are more common reasons for people with MS to leave the workforce than mobility issues.

The words “progressive MS” can set off alarm bells. No one wants to hear that his or her MS is, or has become, progressive. The term “progressive MS” applies to different aspects of the disease, and it helps to know how it is being used.

Are falls an integral part of your MS experience? They don’t need to be. Are you afraid of falling , and therefore, avoiding activities? Do people tell you you’re overestimating your abilities and being unsafe?

Some people with MS fly solo by choice, some by circumstance and others for a combination of reasons. In whichever way people find themselves flying solo with MS, it seems to help if they view this unanticipated life event as a series of challenges (rather than threats). MS provides opportunity (and a kick in the butt) to pursue a healthier lifestyle, plan ahead and exercise more control over various aspects of life. Coping with MS in these proactive ways helps people maintain greater independence. During this process, many people discover strengths and abilities they didn’t know they had or they under-appreciated. For example, people discover they are good problem-solvers who can deal with stressful situations in ways that build their self-confidence and self-efficacy over time. They work on being more assertive to cope with family and friends who may try to take over too much, too little or not offer support at all.

There are few things as discouraging as feeling like you cannot keep up with your daily life and the mountain of “stuff” you have to do. These days, people live busy lives, and people living with MS have even more to organize – such as appointments, paperwork, medication schedules, to name a few. On top of that, MS fatigue can make it even more difficult to keep up. The good news is: There are many ways to become more organized and become more productive!

Managing your MS is more than making doctor appointments, taking medications and using your energy to perform the activities that “should be done”. Making time for the activities that bring joy and fulfillment are important to improve health and overall well-being. Finding solutions that help you reclaim the things you love and enhance the manageability of everyday life can be easy as ABC.

‘Intimacy’ isn’t just about sexual feelings and sexual activity – although that’s one important part we’ll talk about later. Intimacy is about effective communication, trust and respect, shared values and expectations, and a balanced give-and take. Maintaining intimacy can be difficult in any relationship, but the stresses of MS – its unpredictability, progressive nature, complex symptoms, and financial impact – can challenge any couple. Feelings of loss, anxiety, anger, and guilt can interfere with communication, connection, and effective problem-solving; physical changes can interfere with everyday activities and sexual intimacy. So where to begin?

Fitness is often associated with exercise. While exercise or physical activity is now advised for everyone, having MS can make meeting recommended exercise guidelines challenging. But is it really that important if someone has a chronic disease like MS? The short answer is. . . YES! Lack of exercise is associated with heart disease, cancers, metabolic diseases, hypertension, low bone density, all-cause mortality, and numerous other health risks that affect people with MS. The latest catch phrase about exercise, “Exercise is Medicine,” implies that physical activity is just as important for someone with MS as it is for the general population.

Learning how to manage the physical changes you may experience as a newly diagnosed person living with MS can be a major challenge. An important key to handling these changes is to develop the right mindset. Your mindset helps you deal with the changes in your life and your lifestyle. A component of developing a good mindset includes understanding the importance of keeping a balanced lifestyle.