Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong condition that affects the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the body’s own immune system gets confused and mistakenly attacks the protective covering (myelin) that surrounds nerve fibers. Think of the wiring in your house: if the insulation is worn away, the electrical signals don’t travel smoothly, causing flickers and outages. For people with MS, these “flickers” show up as a range of symptoms, sometimes appearing suddenly and then fading, making life unpredictable.
Multiple sclerosis affects
MS affects each person differently, but some of the most common symptoms include fatigue, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, trouble with balance or walking, and sometimes blurred vision or slurred speech. Some notice changes in memory, concentration, or mood. Symptoms can flare up and then improve, which is why many describe MS as having “good days” and “bad days.” The unpredictability can feel like carrying an umbrella even when it’s sunny out, always needing to be ready for anything.
Multiple sclerosis treatment
Treatment has advanced significantly in recent decades. The main goal is to slow MS progression and reduce the number and severity of relapses (also called attacks or flare-ups). Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are now available in pill (oral), injectable, or infusion (IV) forms. Oral therapies include:
- Tecfidera (generic: dimethyl fumarate) – helps reduce relapses and slow MS progression
- Aubagio (teriflunomide) – an oral treatment that reduces inflammation attacks on nerves
- Gilenya (fingolimod) – an oral option that helps prevent relapses
- Infused therapies like Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) or Tysabri (natalizumab), and injectable options, are available for those who need them. For acute relapses, doctors may prescribe a short course of steroids, like prednisone, to speed up recovery. Steroids are powerful anti-inflammatory substances that calm down the overactive immune response. Many people also use supplementary drugs such as Baclofen (baclofen) or Gablofen (baclofen) for muscle tightness, and Cymbalta (duloxetine) for nerve pain or mood support.
Managing multiple sclerosis
Managing MS goes beyond medication. Physical therapy can help improve balance, strength, and mobility. Occupational therapy can assist in adapting daily tasks, making life easier, and maintaining independence. Eating a healthy, balanced diet and staying active can help support overall well-being and quality of life. Managing stress with yoga, deep breathing, or meditation is helpful, too.
Sticking to your medication schedule and keeping doctor appointments are essential for living well with MS. With the right combination of medication, therapy, support, and positive lifestyle changes, it’s possible not just to survive, but to thrive. But MS isn’t something you have to face alone.
At RxVitaPharm, we understand the unique needs of people with MS. We offer specialty pharmacy support that includes medication management, insurance assistance, therapy adherence support, and home delivery. Our caring team is here to make life easier so you can look forward with confidence and hope, one day at a time.