According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, multiple sclerosis
(MS) is the most common disabling neurological disease in adults aged 20-40 years old. Nearly
one million people in the United States live with MS. A MS diagnosis can be frightening and
isolating. Still, the reality is many people navigate life with the disease, and symptom
management has drastically improved. With new drugs, techniques, and lifestyle information,
people with MS are learning to improve their symptoms and not let the disease prevent their
health goals.
In support of MS Awareness Month in March, we’re diving into what patients, families, and
caregivers should know about living with this disease and how new treatments and modern
technology can support your journey.
Nova Vita Solutions
At Nova Vita, we strive to help each individual overcome their health obstacles, no matter how
severe. Living with MS may mean you have to adapt certain lifestyle choices and some
symptoms may prevent you from doing what you love. We’re here to help you live healthily with
MS with our NAD+ therapy and Glutathione IV infusions. NAD+ has been found to support
nerve function and protect against nerve damage, both of which are important for managing MS
symptoms. NAD+ is a molecule that plays a critical role in cellular metabolism and energy
production. Recent studies have shown that NAD+ may have therapeutic benefits for many
different health issues that involve inflammation, including MS. Our Glutathione infusion helps
to counteract the brain’s high vulnerability to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can cause tissue
injury in the central nervous system in neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis.
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that occurs when the immune system attacks the central
nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal cord. This can inflame and scar the central nervous
system and damage the myelin that surrounds nerve fibers. Inflammation and damage to the
nervous system impair communication between the brain and body, setting off a multitude of
symptoms.
MS is a lifelong condition that can sometimes cause serious disability, although in most cases it
can be mild. While there is no cure for the disease, symptom management has drastically
improved.
Symptoms of MS
Depending on what type of MS you have (relapse or gradual progression), the symptoms of MS
will vary widely from person to person and can affect any part of the body. The main symptoms
may include:
● Fatigue
● Double/blurred vision
● Loss of vision in one eye
● Difficulty walking
● Numbness or tingling in different parts of the body
● Dizziness
● Muscle stiffness and spasms
● Problems with balance and coordination
● Cognitive impairment
The symptoms can mimic other neurological diseases and will vary depending on where the
inflammation or nerve fiber damage is and its level of deterioration. Depending on the type of
MS you have, your symptoms may come and go or steadily worsen over time.
It can be easy to overlook symptoms of MS or confuse them with symptoms of another health
concern. It’s important to notice if any unusual symptoms last more than 24 hours. For example,
if your hand is numb when you wake up but goes away after a few minutes, it’s probably not
MS. However, if numbness or tingling, balance or vision issues, or any other MS symptoms last
for 24 or more hours, you should consult a neurologist.
Who is Most at Risk of Developing MS?
The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown, however, it’s considered an autoimmune condition in
which the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues. Infections can impact changes in the
immune system that cause MS. Additionally, environmental factors, smoking, and low vitamin D
may increase the risk of MS. It’s most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40 but
can be diagnosed at any age. MS is three times more common in women than men.
How is MS diagnosed?
Your doctor may analyze your full health history report, analyze previous symptoms, and
perform a neurological exam to diagnose MS. Your doctor may also conduct an MRI to examine
damage to the central nervous system or do a spinal tap to look for evidence in a person’s
cerebrospinal fluid.
Treatments for Multiple Sclerosis
While there is currently no cure for MS, many treatments can help control the condition and
alleviate symptoms. Treatment plans may include a combination of medications tailored to each
patient. Steroids are often used to reduce inflammation after an attack. Other medications such as
disease-modifying therapies are used to reduce the number of attacks and slow disease
progression
Physical therapy, speech therapy, and exercise can help with balance or speech issues, and
occupational therapy can assist with cognitive issues. Many other therapies aiming to treat
progressive MS continue to be researched.
A lifelong disease will require lifelong treatment. Everyone with MS should be treated early and
commit to certain lifestyle changes their doctor recommends. People who adhere to their
treatment plan will help reduce their risk of a relapse.
Living with MS
Your day-to-day life may change if you’re diagnosed with MS, but with the right care, resources,
and support you can lead a long and healthy life. The following lifestyle tips will help you
navigate your journey with MS:
● Healthy eating and exercise: A balanced diet can help you manage any fatigue, reduce
your risk of health problems, and increase your energy levels. Research has shown that
regular exercise can benefit people with MS by reducing fatigue and improving strength,
mobility, flexibility, and bowel and bladder function.
● Regular check-ups: Yearly appointments with your care team are a great opportunity to
discuss your current treatment, discuss any new symptoms, and work through further
needed support. Your doctor may also inform you of any new treatments you can add.
● Emotional Support: MS patients need a support system to work with them through their
isolating illness. Family and friends can help patients stay on track with their treatment
plans and ensure they’re taken care of themselves.
● Staying Educated: The National MS Society is a great resource to stay up to date with
new clinical trials in your area. Trials allow researchers to determine whether new
treatments are safe and effective.
The Bottom Line
When you get an illness such as the flu, you are confident you’ll be feeling normal after a few
days. A lifelong condition such as MS is different and will require you to handle changes that
affect your life in many different ways. Living with MS doesn’t have to keep you from a healthy,
long, and happy life. While some days may be difficult, it’s still possible to live well with MS by
implementing some of the above changes into your life. Research is ongoing and newer
treatments can slow the progression of the disease and restore functions and abilities that have
been lost. Nova Vita’s Glutathione infusion and NAD+ therapy can help to improve your quality
of life with MS. Get started on your wellness journey by contacting us today!
