Receiving a multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis can be overwhelming, but it’s also the beginning of a journey where you can take charge of your health and future. While MS comes with uncertainties, empowering yourself with knowledge and a proactive mindset can make a world of difference. Start by educating yourself about MS through the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA). Understanding your diagnosis helps you make informed decisions about treatment, symptom management, and lifestyle changes.
Continue readingTag Archives: living with MS
Fortifying Relationships
By Stacie Prada
Some bonds can withstand extreme stress and grumpy behavior. Others falter with the slightest misstep or misunderstanding.
Sometimes I wonder where I stand with people I haven’t seen in a while. After getting divorced, I worried I was portrayed in a way that led people to judge me in a way I thought was unfair and inaccurate. When encountering people I haven’t seen in a while, I’m not always sure if their opinion of me has changed. I cherish those who light up when they see me. My fears and insecurities vanish immediately, my entire body relaxes, and I delight in the reunion.
Continue readingNumbness and Tingling With MS
One common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) is feelings of numbness and tingling. Most often, this symptom affects the hands or feet. It makes everyday tasks more difficult. Holding a toothbrush or standing to cook is challenging when hands and feet go numb.
MultipleSclerosis.net recently shared an article on this topic. Many community members shared their experiences with these symptoms.
Continue readingTrouble Swallowing Food or Drinks
Many symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) are challenging to endure. For example, having difficulty swallowing is a common issue with MS. It can prevent any pleasure or comfort when eating a meal. Many people with MS report being discouraged from eating at all due to the severe pain and terror it can cause.
We reached out to the MS community to learn more. We asked, “Do you ever feel like your food gets stuck in your throat or experience other difficulties when it comes to swallowing food or drinks?”
We received 280 responses to our prompt! The MS community was moved to share their symptoms.
Continue readingAsk the Expert: Weakness
Featuring Barry A. Hendin, MD
MSAA’s Chief Medical Officer
Question: How is weakness in MS best treated?
Answer: Weakness in multiple sclerosis can be divided into “primary weakness,” due to injuries from lesions of the spinal cord and brain; or “secondary weakness,” which comes from issues such as inactivity, fatigue, pain, or medications used to treat multiple sclerosis and its symptoms.
Continue readingWishes for Wellness
By Stacie Prada
Bright lights on buildings and cool decorations
Brighten the landscape and cause a sensation
Snail mail and email share tidings and cheer
Wishes for wellness and Happy New Year
Kindness from strangers and heartfelt connection
Show us what matters and trigger reflection
Posts on the social show who they hold dear
Wishes for wellness and Happy New Year
Visit with loved ones and arrive gift bearing
delight in giving while sharing and caring
Joy, peace, and goodwill for those far and near
Wishes for wellness and Happy New Year
When fatigue hits
When the stress rears
When I’m overwhelmed
Focus on what matters, let go of the rest,
and deem the season success!
This was written for fun to be sung to the tune of “My Favorite Things,” by Oscar Hammerstein II and Richard Rodgers in their musical, “The Sound of Music.” Take good care all!
*Stacie Prada was diagnosed with RRMS in 2008 just shy of 38 years old. Her blog, “Keep Doing What You’re Doing” is a compilation of inspiration, exploration, and practical tips for living with Multiple Sclerosis while living a full, productive, and healthy life with a positive perspective. It includes musings on things that help her adapt, cope and celebrate this adventure on earth. Please visit her at http://stacieprada.blogspot.com/
MS and Sensory Overload
One overlooked symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) is sensory overload. Noise, lights, and crowds cause panic and lead to feeling overwhelmed. Many with MS do not realize sensory overload is a symptom. It feels confusing when it first happens.
MultipleSclerosis.net published an article about sensory overload that resonated with many readers. The insights and responses from the community are worth sharing!
Continue readingNavigating Life with MS: Finding Growth in Challenges
Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) comes with its own array of challenges and setbacks that can feel overwhelming at times. From unpredictable symptoms to navigating the complexities of treatment, these hurdles can seem daunting. It’s important to recognize that while these setbacks are very real, they do not have to define our journey. Effective strategies exist for managing these difficulties and finding ways to adapt and thrive. Setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose, showing that even in the face of adversity, there is always a path forward.
Continue readingMoments Matter
By Stacie Prada
Have you ever been in a mood and had something happen that changed it in a moment? It happens a lot, and some moments stick through the years.
I recall being at work years ago, and cheerfully saying, “Good morning!” They responded quickly and sharply, “What’s good about it?”
I don’t remember how I responded then, but I still think about how it startled me. I felt like I’d done something wrong, and I wasn’t sure what. My mood swiftly dropped from happy to resentful. This memory helped me learn the life lesson that we’re all living different experiences, and lots of interactions have nothing to do with us.
Continue readingMorning Pain and MS
Navigating pain is a consistent challenge with multiple sclerosis (MS). Nights are often not restful. Many with MS wake in pain. It is challenging to move first thing in the morning.
MultipleSclerosis.net members recently engaged in a discussion about morning pain. Here are some of the insights they shared.
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