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- Health Maintenance and Stress Reduction
People with multiple sclerosis should make every effort to preserve their general health. Proper diet with plenty of fiber, sufficient rest, establishing priorities to conserve energy, and developing emotional support networks can all be very helpful. Relaxation or meditation exercises can be beneficial. Special diets, such as those that are gluten- or yeast-free, have not been shown to have any direct effect on the symptoms or course of MS. Low-fat diets have also been recommended which have not been proven to date to have much effect on MS but are, in any case, generally healthy. Because illnesses, such influenza, which are caused by infection can exacerbate MS, a flu shot in the fall may be beneficial. Of some concern, is the possibility that the flu vaccine itself may exacerbate the disease, but a recent study has indicated that the risk is very small, if it exists at all. Stress can worsen symptoms, and may even be linked to worsening of the disease. Reducing stress is an important part of general health maintenance.
- Exercise and Physical and Occupational Therapy
Exercise is an important component in managing the disorder. Stretching and range*of*motion exercises can alleviate some muscle spasticity. Pool exercises are particularly helpful; water supports the body, and cool water dissipates heat. In one study, aerobic exercise (40 minutes three times a week) helped improve bladder and bowel function and increased energy and a sense of well being. A health professional should be consulted to determine the best form of physical activity.
- Avoid Overheating
Body overheating causes demyelinated nerve to function less efficiently than usual, but this effect is resolved within a few hours of regaining normal body temperature. Patients should use air conditioners in the summer, keep the home slightly cooler in winter, and avoid swimming in heated pools. People with MS may also notice that their symptoms worsen when they have a cold or the flu, but this is believed to result from increased immune system activity, not from fever itself.
- Outside Support
Many MS patients require physical and psychological support from family, friends, and health professionals. A number of good associations are available to provide information and help. One interesting study reported that MS patients who owned trained service dogs showed substantial improvement in self-esteem, sense of self control, and psychological well being within only 6 months of having the dog. Reliance on paid and unpaid assistance dramatically decreased during a 2-year period of dog ownership.
- Exercise and Physical and Occupational Therapy