If you have been given a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) by a neurologist, you may have many worries, questions and concerns about what it could be like living with this long term condition. The truth is, you've probably had the symptoms for a long time and have learnt many things that help you manage on a day-to-day basis.
However, there may be some hints, tips or gadgets which could help to relieve your symptoms and live your life as fully as possible. Read this guide from Complete Care Shop about living with multiple sclerosis for more information.
Multiple sclerosis can affect people in a number of ways as there are a few different types of the condition. MS is a condition that affects your brain and spinal cord. Commonly, the range of symptoms can include difficulties with balance and coordination (you may be stumbling or have fallen), pins and needles or numbness, visual disturbances, dizziness, incontinence, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and concentration difficulties.
It is important to remember that even with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, you can still take control of the things that are important to you and learn to live as fully, safely and independently as possible.
Living with multiple sclerosis can be extremely challenging, so what are some things you can do to make daily life a little easier?
Research shows that it’s important for both your mental and physical health to get out and about regardless of your disability. Going outside makes us feel better and provides essential vitamin D for building stronger muscles and bones. Getting outside, even if only for 15 minutes a day, can significantly improve your health.
Going out to the garden – if you have one – could help you do something purposeful whilst you’re outside, whether that’s gardening, hanging out the washing or throwing a ball for your dog.
Of course, going outside safely may mean that you have to use mobility aids such as a rollator or walking stick to compensate for a balance issue and prevent falls. If you feel that you need more assistance to benefit from the fresh air you could always invest in a wheelchair or scooter. This may enable you to sit outside with family and friends or simply have a cup of tea in the sunshine. Also, you must ensure you can get out of the house and get into the car. You may need a ramp to help with this.
If you’re feeling more adventurous and want to go further afield, there are many products that can make this easier for you and your family. Most people with MS can still continue to drive but will need an assessment from the DVLA to see whether they are okay to do so.
If you have tired muscles and painful joints, it can be beneficial to have a soak in a warm bath – but getting in and out may be difficult. There are many products that can help, from bath steps and seats to bath lifts that raise you up from the bottom of the bath.
It’s also important to consider safety if you have a bath. An alarm can provide peace of mind that you can get help if you need it. Grab rails on the side of the bath and slip-resistant flooring from our bath safety aids can also help.
Living with multiple sclerosis doesn’t mean you have to lose your sense of style. While dressing can become more difficult due to weakness, sensory loss and tiredness, here are some steps to make it easier:
While living with multiple sclerosis can make doing household tasks very difficult, it’s important to try and stay as active and productive as you can. For mental and physical health, moving around the house – even to do household chores – is important. If you’re worried about how you’ll be able to do this, check out our tips to make tasks a little easier:
There are lots of clever gadgets and everyday technology available at Complete Care Shop that can help you to remain as safe and active as possible when living with multiple sclerosis. As with all technology, it is helpful if you can start using them as early as possible to get used to them being part of your life. Technology is changing all the time but some of the more helpful ones are:
If you need help deciding if a particular aid is right for you, you should consider getting in touch with our Expert Advice Service. For any other queries and support, don’t hesitate to contact us.
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