Multiple Sclerosis, Memory Loss and What You Should Know

What Is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) ?

MS is a chronic nerve disease that affects the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves of the central nervous system. Those who suffer with this condition often have symptoms that include muscle weakness, balance and coordination issues. MS can also affect cognitive processing, bladder and bowel dysfunction, weakness, fatigue, vision, tremors and spasticity, pain and sexual dysfunction.

The condition is a result of a fatty substance called myelin that coats the nerve fibers, gets damaged and compromised by the immune system. Causing a breakdown of communication between the brain and other parts of the body.

It turns out that 75% of MS patients experience cognitive impairment as part of the disease. This usually involves forgetfulness and informational processing difficulties. This can compromise a persons job performance, driving ability, daily tasks at home and money management.

Often times MS and memory loss can occur at the same time. A slow decline that happens over time. Typically, people with MS start showing signs between the ages of 20 and 40 years old. Although it is different for each individual.

Management of Symptoms

Memory and other cognitive problems are common with MS and yet are not often treated as part of the disease. As the condition progresses there are certain helpful things you can do to improve your life.

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America suggests to try wearing a garden apron with large pockets to place all your essential items in while at home doing your chores.

There’s evidence showing that exercise can be of cognitive benefit that results in improvement in clarity.

Doing more single tasks at a time and less multi-tasking

Create more structure and get more organized at home

Use specific locations to put wallet, keys, bills, mobile phone and reading glasses

Use “post- its “ throughout the house as reminders

Use a calendar for appointments

Having and maintaining a good social life has positive affects on the mind and mood

Employing good stress management techniques, like meditation and prayer

Eating a good diet that is nutrient dense in fruits , veggies and clean protein

These are common sense things that a person with MS can do to improve their lives.

Speak with your doctor or health care professional to find the best solutions for you.

-A Balanced Brain is a Functional Brain-