The Link Between Heart Health and Neurological Wellness
Your heart and brain are deeply interconnected, and understanding the link between cardiovascular and neurological health can help you take comprehensive steps toward lifelong wellness.
Living With Multiple Sclerosis: Tips for Daily Management
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects about 1 million Americans. Managing MS requires ongoing medical care and consistent daily practices to maintain mobility and independence.
Integrated Neurology Services, with offices in Alexandria, Falls Church, Lorton, Virginia, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis. Diagnostic testing is available on-site, so you can get answers about your health without delay.
Our highly skilled neurologists offer the latest treatments to ensure lasting symptom control. We also provide ongoing care and useful tips that help with daily management and slow the progression of multiple sclerosis so you can remain active and independent for as long as possible.
An overview of multiple sclerosis
MS is an autoimmune disorder that develops when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy myelin tissue, the protective covering of nerve fibers. The resulting tissue damage disrupts communication between your nerves and the brain, resulting in symptoms like:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Weakness
- Muscle stiffness
- Vision changes
- Incontinence
- Tremors
- Loss of coordination and balance
These symptoms can worsen during a flare-up and go into remission for a period of time before recurring. In some cases, a remission can last for months or years before coming back.
5 daily strategies to stay on top of multiple sclerosis symptoms
With medications and physical therapy, MS symptoms are manageable. However, people with the disease also need to take a proactive approach to symptom management. Here are five strategies our experts recommend to support MS symptom management.
1. Be mindful of energy output
Doing too much can quickly zap your energy and lead to persistent fatigue that makes daily life more difficult. Focus on pacing yourself throughout the day, and prioritize tasks based on your energy level.
Taking short breaks often can also help conserve your energy during your day.
2. Engage in low-impact activities
Exercise is an important part of staying healthy, but when you have MS, exercise can feel challenging due to persistent fatigue and pain. Low-impact exercises like yoga and swimming are a great way to improve strength and flexibility without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Eat foods that fight inflammation
An anti-inflammatory diet can prevent MS symptoms from getting worse. Avoid processed and high sodium foods that can trigger inflammation in the body.
Prepare meals that incorporate fresh vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and fruits. Our experts can recommend dietary supplements or vitamin infusions to ensure proper nutrition. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
4. Accept help
The support of your family and friends is a critical component of managing MS daily and in the long-term, especially during symptom flare-ups. Ask loved ones for help doing tasks that feel like too much when you’re tired or in pain.
It’s also important that you rely on the support of assistive devices like a walker or a wheelchair when you’re active to prevent falls and conserve energy.
5. Stay on track with your treatment
If you’re taking prescription medications to manage MS systems, it's essential that you follow your provider’s guidance. Medications are most effective when taken properly and consistently, and missing a few doses can lead to more serious complications.
Call Integrated Neurology Services today to learn more about the available treatments to manage multiple sclerosis. You can also request a consultation online.
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