Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease with relapses. In most cases, the disease is diagnosed as there is an increased disability symptom. A number of multiple sclerosis communities have been established which guides and advice people suffering about the medications, lifestyle changes, and support. The progression of the disease and intensity of attacks depends on the type of multiple sclerosis. It is broadly classified into 4 types relapsing-remitting MS, primary-progressive MS, secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis and progressive-relapsing MS.
Can You Prevent Multiple Sclerosis From Progressing?
Progression of multiple sclerosis can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle and following the doctor’s advice.
Medications– Doctor’s prescription should be followed as advised. Taking medicines on time can help in preventing the progression of the disease and the relapses. Certain medications can have side-effects; such medicines should not be stopped immediately. Your physician should be informed about the side-effects, who can replace the drugs with new medicines can prevent progression of the disease. Every individual is different, so do not try to take medicines prescribed to your friends. The causative factors for multiple sclerosis will be different in each case. (1)
Good Hygiene Practice– Cold and flu can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Bladder infection or bad hygiene habits add to the inflammatory condition. Wash your hands as frequently as possible, use disinfectants or soap. Keep yourself hydrated all the time. All the infections should be promptly treated.
Avoid Smoking– Nicotine is bad for health. It can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. If you have a strong nicotine addiction, consider seeking specialist advice to help you quit smoking. There are studies which indicate smoking causes the relapsing-remitting form of MS to secondary progressive multiple sclerosis.
Relax– Stress is one of the causative factors of MS. It can increase the relapses and intensity of attacks. Take adequate measures to avoid stress and relax. Insomnia is one of the disease-related symptoms. It worsens the symptoms of disease-causing fatigue, daytime sleepiness, tiredness, etc. the pain and spasms make it difficult to fall asleep and maintain sleep quality. Sleep disturbance can also be due to the side-effects of the medications. The disability in MS makes an individual bedridden; the sedentary lifestyle worsens the situation. The timings of medicines which disrupt the sleep cycle should be adjusted to coincide with the routine sleep cycle.
Yoga, meditation, increased physical activity, maintaining a routine sleep-wake cycle can help in preventing the progression of the disease.
There is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but medicines can help in preventing relapses and progression of the disease and also reduce the formation of new lesions in the brain. The current aim of the treatment methods is to reduce the disability rate and improve quality of life. Treatment should be started immediately after diagnosis along with lifestyle modifications to prevent progression.
There can be a number of trigger factors and causes for developing multiple sclerosis. Decreased levels of Vitamin D have been associated with the development of multiple sclerosis. This highlights the importance of vitamin D in the immune system and nervous system function. Taking an adequate amount of sunlight or Vitamin D supplements can help in preventing progression. It is established that Vitamin D supplements can reduce elapse rates and decreased disability
People who have body mass index (BMI) of more than 25 are more likely to develop multiple sclerosis and also they have low levels of Vitamin D in the body.
In countries where intake of fish is high, there are decreased cases of multiple sclerosis. Fish is rich in omega 3 fatty acids which possess anti-inflammatory properties and help in a decreased intensity of attacks progression to disability.
Conclusion
Progression of multiple sclerosis can be prevented by taking adequate measures such as taking medications as prescribed, lifestyle modifications and meditation. Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease condition, the medicines taken works by altering the course of immunity. Omega-3 fish oils, vitamin and eliminating nicotine can help in preventing the progression of the disease.
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Also Read:
- Has Anyone Been Cured Of Multiple Sclerosis?
- How Can I Help Someone With Multiple Sclerosis?
- What Age Do Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms Start?
- Can A Man With Multiple Sclerosis Have A Baby?
- Can Fibromyalgia Turn Into Multiple Sclerosis?
- How Long Do Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms Last?
- What Does Multiple Sclerosis Feel Like In Legs?
