How to live with multiple sclerosis and manage the symptoms to improve your quality of life

• The prevalence of multiple sclerosis in the Dominican Republic has risen to 3.9 cases per 100,000 inhabitants; although there is no cure, good treatment and certain habits allow for a good quality of life.

Santo Domingo. Receiving a neurological diagnosis completely changes the way a person understands their health. Knowing how to live with multiple sclerosis means not only understanding the disease, but learning to adapt to its symptoms and keep life as full as possible.

In the Dominican Republic, the subject matters. According to statistical data, the current prevalence of multiple sclerosis is 3.9 patients per 100,000 inhabitants, a figure that shows an increase on 2016, when it was 1.6 per 100,000. Globally, the latest Atlas of the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) estimates that more than 2.9 million people live with the disease.

Although there is no cure, it is now known that many people can maintain a good quality of life with multiple sclerosis if they follow suitable treatment and adopt certain habits. “While multiple sclerosis has no cure, there are many treatments and strategies for managing the symptoms within a comprehensive plan,” explains Dr Michael Levy, a neuroimmunologist at the Mass General Brigham Neuroscience Institute.

Causes, symptoms and treatment of multiple sclerosis: the basics

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, that is, the brain, the spinal cord and the optic nerves. It occurs when the immune system attacks myelin, a layer that coats nerve fibres and allows electrical signals to travel properly. When that layer is damaged, communication between the brain and the rest of the body becomes less efficient.

The causes and symptoms of multiple sclerosis in adults can vary greatly from one person to another, but they usually include constant fatigue, balance problems, difficulty walking, changes in vision and muscle stiffness.

It is worth noting that this is a disease that generally affects more women than men and that most often begins around the age of 25.

Keys to improving quality of life with multiple sclerosis

Understanding how to live with multiple sclerosis and improve quality of life means adopting a comprehensive approach that combines medical treatment, constant monitoring and changes in lifestyle. One of the pillars is following the treatment plan set by the specialist. That includes medicines designed to modify the course of the disease, known as disease-modifying therapies.

These treatments help to:

• Slow the progression of the disease
• Reduce the frequency of relapses
• Make flare-ups less severe

“Treatment has to be adapted to each patient’s life, taking into account their needs, their routine and their tolerance of the medication,” says the neuroimmunology specialist.

Managing symptoms: a key part of treatment

Beyond medication, controlling symptoms is essential to maintaining stability.

Each person experiences the disease differently, so management is personalised. Some options include medicines for pain, dizziness or stiffness; physiotherapy and exercise; and complementary therapies such as meditation or massage. Exercise, for example, does not only help improve mobility, it also has a positive impact on mood. That is especially relevant, since anxiety and depression can be part of the clinical picture.

“The stress and unpredictability of the disease can affect mental health, so it is important to have emotional support,” warns Dr Levy.

Care for multiple sclerosis in daily life

Adopting certain care habits for this disease can make a significant difference day to day. Some key recommendations are:

• Keeping an adapted exercise routine
• Following a balanced diet
• Avoiding extreme heat, which can trigger symptoms
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Consulting your doctor before taking supplements

Adapting to the disease: the role of assistive devices

In some cases, multiple sclerosis can affect mobility. Using devices such as canes, walkers or wheelchairs can help maintain independence and prevent falls.

“Using assistive devices when they are needed makes it possible to stay safe and carry on with daily activities,” explains Dr Levy.

When should you see a doctor?

Multiple sclerosis can bring flare-ups or relapses. It is therefore essential to watch for changes in symptoms. It is recommended to contact the specialist if new symptoms appear or existing ones get worse, or if there are changes lasting more than 24 hours. 

In some cases, these episodes may need immediate treatment to reduce inflammation. “Trust your body. If something changes and worries you, seek medical attention,” says the specialist.

Living with multiple sclerosis: a manageable condition

Learning how to live with multiple sclerosis is a process that goes beyond the diagnosis. It means understanding the disease, following suitable treatment and building habits that support physical and emotional wellbeing.

Although it is a chronic condition, advances in treatment and a comprehensive approach allow many people to keep an active life. Because living with multiple sclerosis does not mean giving up living, but learning to do it in a different way, with information, support and the right strategies.

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About Mass General Brigham

Mass General Brigham is a healthcare system that brings together the best minds in medicine to improve the lives of patients around the world. The system is made up of 16 hospitals, including 5 ranked among the best in the country by US News & World Report: Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Mass Eye and Ear, McLean Hospital and Spaulding Rehabilitation; along with community and specialist care centres, health insurance plans, physician networks, home care and long-term care services.

Mass General Brigham is a non-profit organisation committed to patient care, teaching and research. With an annual budget of almost 2 billion dollars, Mass General Brigham’s research programme is one of the largest in the United States, funding more than 2,700 clinical trials. It is also one of the country’s leading biomedical research organisations and the principal teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.