Dr. Vincent Macaluso learned he had multiple sclerosis (MS) while attending medical school. He currently treats his MS patients at a clinic in New Hyde Park, New York.
He understands that MS can change the way a person thinks, feels and behaves better than most people. He also knows firsthand how difficult it is to explain this to others.
Symptoms such as memory loss and depression occur because MS affects how the brain works. These problems can have a big impact on your life, but others may not necessarily know that you have a problem. Macaluso says it's common for people with MS to look fine on the outside, but not on the inside.
The opposite may also be true. Dr. Tim Vartanian, director of the Judith Jaffe Multiple Sclerosis Center in New York, says his family and colleagues may be the first to notice changes.
In any case, it is important to inform those closest to you what is currently happening and what may happen in the future. This will help you better understand the visible changes. We can also provide support if needed.
At some point, more than half of people with MS will have cognitive impairment. (Some people with MS call this „teeth fog.“) According to Vartanian, the most common symptoms are:
- Decline in thinking ability
- vague memory
- Executive function problems — the ability to plan and do things
You may also not feel as sharp as you used to.
People with MS may have some or all of these symptoms. But for most people, memory issues are at the top of the list. Vartanian says MS can affect recent memories or memories from the distant past.
However, for many people, daily symptoms are often mild. But even small mistakes can make things difficult. (Memory problems are one of the main reasons people with MS stop working.)
To describe how this feels, try putting it in words that others can relate to. You can say, „Do you remember how upset you were yesterday when you couldn't find your car keys?“ As MS progresses, such events can occur more frequently. ”
MS patients need to work with a doctor called a neuropsychologist who can suggest ways to sharpen their mind. This includes both mental and physical training. „Depression, anxiety, stress, anything that can affect how the brain works needs to be tackled head-on,“ Vartanian says.
Let your loved one know that it can help them cope with the memory problems associated with MS.
Keep cool. Damaged nerves do not function well in the heat. That's why many (but not all) people with MS think and learn better when it's cooler. To improve your concentration, spend time with friends in a cool, quiet place with no distractions. (Stay away from Netflix!) Let them know that's your goal in case they forget.
Create a to-do list. Many people with MS say they lose track of pieces of paper. Alternatively, you can use a small recorder that you can wear around your neck or a voice recorder on your phone. And let your friends know you're doing it so they can help.
Set a routine. Keep your car keys, cell phone, and glasses in the same place so you always know where they are. Let your loved ones know its location so they can get it back if they find it elsewhere.
Please sound the alarm. Use additional features on your phone or computer to remind you of what you need to do. You can also set the same alarm for your loved ones, so they can be reminded of it if they forget.
Please repeat. If someone says something to you, repeat it. That way, you're more likely to stick in your mind and theirs.
Depression is one of the most common symptoms of MS. It may be difficult to argue with you. Some see it as a sign of weakness. Some people feel embarrassed or ashamed. And when you're depressed, it's normal to want to withdraw from others.
However, it is important to convey your feelings to those close to you. Explain that depression is a natural part of MS and requires treatment like any other symptom. It's not something you can easily get out of. And despite your best efforts, your friends and family probably won't be able to cheer you on.
Jessica Thomas is a social worker in Greensboro, North Carolina. Like many of the people she sees, she too has her own MS. She said counselors can help manage the emotions of living with MS, but she said people with depression may also need medication. She also points out that people need MS-free zones, „parts of their lives and passions where MS doesn't get in the way.“
Exercise is also an important factor. It's important for your overall health and well-being. It also has an effect on nearly every aspect of MS and may be more effective against depression than antidepressants. So you can tell your friends that your workout partner really helps you stay on track.
Also, tell those closest to you that the following can help prevent depression:
- Healthy ways to manage stress
- Eat a more plant-based diet
- Let's get plenty of rest
- Helps you complete your to-do list when you need it