Multiple sclerosis is a life-long neurological illness that creates variability and uncertainty in the day-to-day lives of those who have the disease. It is important to have a multi-faceted wellness programme in order to make the most of physical, emotional, social and spiritual health. Although there is no cure for MS, there is hope that one can renew and refresh along the way, and create a balance in life that promotes harmony.
Deciding to adhere to a healthy lifestyle or to maintain healthy habits is a choice for each person. This concept of choice is especially relevant for people with MS who often feel they have little control over the disease. Diet, exercise, stress management, travel, leisure activities and health-promotion activities are all aspects of living well that are, to a certain extent, under the control of the individual.
Although there are no particular diets that have been shown to affect the disease process in MS, food fuels the body, and provides energy. A well-balanced nutrition plan, low in fat, high in fibre, can help stabilise weight and improve bowel health. Adding dietary supplements such as multi-vitamins with minerals, calcium, and vitamin D should not replace proper food intake, but can be useful. People with MS should be encouraged to check with their doctor or nurse before taking vitamins, minerals, or herbal supplements to ensure safety and compatibility with the traditional medications already prescribed.
Regular exercise is important for several reasons, and should be part of everyone’s routine. Exercise not only improves cardiovascular health, but also helps improve strength and endurance, and is a factor in stabilising mood. Exercise can help relieve MS-related fatigue and manage spasticity. Aquatics therapy (also known as hydrotherapy) can be very helpful in MS because it provides an aerobic workout while keeping the body temperature down. Other helpful exercise regimens include stretching, and low impact aerobic workouts, combined with strength training, using light weights. People with MS should discuss exercising with their doctor or nurse, and may need a consultation with a physiotherapist before beginning a programme.
Coping with stress can be difficult in these demanding times. Stress makes most people feel bad, but those with MS may actually experience the consequences of stress in ways that make their symptoms feel worse. Stress may raise body temperature. People with MS tend to feel more fatigued, or have temporary worsening of MS-related symptoms when their body temperature is elevated. Relieving stress can be as easy as taking a few deep breaths, visualising a pleasant memory, or scene, or simply smiling. More regimented strategies include practicing progressive relaxation techniques, yoga, meditation, tai chi, or prayer. Some people enjoy the relaxation found in nature, art, music or other sources. The important message is that people should incorporate whatever brings a calm and serene feeling into their daily routines.
Travelling is fun, but can be stressful when one has MS. There are many travel agencies that work with people with disabilities, and help to make the holiday a success. Some important points to think about when choosing a destination include the climate and average temperature (places that are hot or humid may not be ideal vacation spots), accessibility, proximity to a healthcare provider or healthcare facility, and whether there will be a refrigerator for storing medications for injection. Planning ahead is essential to enjoy any trip.
Some people with MS take very good care of the MS, but forget about the other parts of the body that require attention. Regular examinations by a primary care doctor may include a cardiogram, and monitoring of blood glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels. Women should see a gynaecologist for a regular cervical smear test, breast examination, and bone density study. The last is especially important if there is a history of receiving multiple doses of steroid medication, or limited mobility related to MS. Individuals should consult their primary care doctor about what general health checkups are important and how often they should be done.
Feeling hopeful and optimistic can promote health, and aid in the healing process. When asked what they hope for, most people with MS say that they hope for a cure, or relief from the troublesome symptoms they are experiencing. These are promising times in the field of MS, but there is still no cure. However, there are interventions for MS that can reduce relapse rate, slow the disease progression, and help to alleviate related symptoms, such as pain and fatigue. Accessing good care is of prime concern among those who have the disease, and it is important to find a place that provides the kind of comprehensive care one needs to stay healthy. Good care by healthcare providers, who view MS in a holistic way, can be the best way to sustain hope despite the ups and downs of living with this unpredictable illness.
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