Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
stephenNeurological Conditions
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
MS is a condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.
It is a lifelong condition that can sometimes cause serious disability, although it can occasionally be mild.
Symptoms and Effects
Like so many neurological conditions, each person is affected differently both in the symptoms suffered and their rate of progression.
Common symptoms include:
- reduced mobility and balance
- muscle stiffness and spasms
- fatigue
- continence issues
- memory and concentration problems
Managing Symptoms
Medication can help manage some of the symptoms of MS, but many people find that maintaining a healthy lifestyle also helps. Physiotherapy can work to reduce muscle stiffness and ease spasms. Complementary therapies can also be helpful, particularly in promoting a holistic approach, recognising that MS is not solely a physical condition, but affects the mind, emotions and overall wellbeing of the individual.
Facts about MS
- Most commonly develops in 20s or 30s, but can occur at a later age
- It is 2 to 3 times more common in women than in men
- Symptoms vary widely from person to person
- It is more common in areas away from the Equator
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
MS is a condition that can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.
It is a lifelong condition that can sometimes cause serious disability, although it can occasionally be mild.
Symptoms and Effects
Like so many neurological conditions, each person is affected differently both in the symptoms suffered and their rate of progression.
Common symptoms include:
- reduced mobility and balance
- muscle stiffness and spasms
- fatigue
- continence issues
- memory and concentration problems
Managing Symptoms
Medication can help manage some of the symptoms of MS, but many people find that maintaining a healthy lifestyle also helps. Physiotherapy can work to reduce muscle stiffness and ease spasms. Complementary therapies can also be helpful, particularly in promoting a holistic approach, recognising that MS is not solely a physical condition, but affects the mind, emotions and overall wellbeing of the individual.
Facts about MS
- Most commonly develops in 20s or 30s, but can occur at a later age
- It is 2 to 3 times more common in women than in men
- Symptoms vary widely from person to person
- It is more common in areas away from the Equator
Help is at hand
If you live in the North West, you can directly access our on-site supports. We offer a range of holistic therapies that can benefit the mind and body, and our premium online support service Mpath can offer advice on a wide range of topics, as well as 24/7 helpline staff by professional counsellors and mental health professionals.
We can assist with transport if required, whether for hospital appointments or a family day out. We also offer the use of our all-terrain wheelchair to faciliate a day out to the beach or a walk in the woods.
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland is a national body specifically for sufferers of MS. Visit their website for a wealth of information and advice about your condition.
Help is at hand
If you live in the North West, you can directly access our on-site supports. We offer a range of holistic therapies that can benefit the mind and body, and our premium online support service Mpath can offer advice on a wide range of topics, as well as 24/7 helpline staff by professional counsellors and mental health professionals.
We can assist with transport if required, whether for hospital appointments or a family day out. We also offer the use of our all-terrain wheelchair to faciliate a day out to the beach or a walk in the woods.
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Ireland is a national body specifically for sufferers of MS. Visit their website for a wealth of information and advice about your condition.