MS (multiple sclerosis) support for members

MS can act on nerves anywhere in the body. So the disease doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Symptoms can vary, as can their frequency and severity. Common initial MS symptoms include:

If your doctor thinks you might have MS, they’ll start with a physical exam, review your medical history and ask about your symptoms. They’ll also test your reflexes, coordination, balance, strength, vision, hearing and more. From there, your doctor may order additional tests, like an eye exam, imaging tests, blood tests or spinal fluid tests.

If you have MS, your doctor and care team will take time to answer your questions, talk about what to expect and create a treatment plan based on your unique needs. Our specialist support services can also help by connecting you with additional resources.

There are several treatments that can help slow MS progress and manage its symptoms:

• Some medicines work by changing your body’s immune system response. These medicines can be injected, taken as a tablet or given intravenously.
• Steroids and plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) can help reduce your symptoms’ intensity when they’re particularly bad.
• Additional medicines may also be prescribed to help control MS-related symptoms, like muscle spasms, problems peeing, general fatigue or mood changes.

Advances in MS treatment are often researched and tested through clinical trials. If you’re interested in these, your doctor can help you look at different options, describe how they work and who pays for them, and see if joining a clinical trial might be right for you.

Your care team, including therapists, nurses and other specialists, will help make living with MS easier so you can do more of what you enjoy. Parts of your care plan may include:

• Physical and occupational therapy – Your therapists will help you build muscle strength, improve coordination and reduce pain through stretching and walking exercises. You may also learn how to use a pole, cane, walker or wheelchair to get around easier.
• Speech therapy – A speech-language pathologist can help with exercises, skills and tools that make it easier to talk and communicate.
• Support services – Working with a therapist or psychologist can help you and your loved ones work through the mental, emotional and spiritual effects of MS. Our support specialists can also help connect you and your family with additional resources.
• Lifestyle changes – Avoiding a high body temperature, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep can all help with symptoms and improve your quality of life. Make sure you check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine.