Living with Multiple Sclerosis: How to Manage Your Symptoms

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can feel unpredictable, but you have more control than you think. With the right strategies and comprehensive medical support here at Link Integrated Healthcare, you can manage symptoms and protect your quality of life.

Below, our team of experts shares six ways to manage your MS symptoms.

1. Learn your personal symptom patterns

MS symptoms can vary from person to person. Not only that, but MS symptoms can change over time and flare unpredictably. 

You might experience any of the following:

• Fatigue 
• Numbness or weakness 
• MS hug  
• Walking difficulties and balance problems
• Involuntary muscle spasms
• Tremor
• Vision problems 
• Stiffness
• Tingling sensations

Pay attention to your symptom patterns, such as fatigue after poor sleep, heat sensitivity, or stress-related flare-ups. You might even keep track of your symptoms and triggers in a journal or on a note in your phone.

Once you identify your personal symptom patterns, your Link Integrated Healthcare provider adjusts your treatment and lifestyle strategies as needed.

2. Manage fatigue proactively

Fatigue is one of the most common and frustrating MS symptoms. In fact, it’s so intense, it has its own name: lassitude. Lassitude is an overwhelming fatigue that feels heavy, like wading through mud.

So, if you find yourself among the 80% of people with fatigue, you’re not alone. That being said, just because fatigue is common doesn’t mean you have to wait for fatigue to wipe you out. 

Plan ahead and manage fatigue proactively. In other words, anticipate fatigue and take action before it really sets in. For example, you can conserve energy by pacing activities, prioritizing tasks, and taking short rest breaks before exhaustion sets in. 

3. Keep your body moving safely

If you’ve heard that exercise makes MS worse, it’s time to debunk that myth. In fact, there are over 300 research articles that show how exercise can actually help you manage your MS symptoms.

Regular, moderate exercise supports muscle strength, balance, and mood. Try low-impact activities like walking, stretching, tai chi, or swimming. If prescribed physical therapy-guided exercise, stick with it. Those help maintain mobility without overtaxing your nervous system. 

Don’t overdo it, though! Set reasonable goals and don’t push yourself if you feel tired.

4. Support your nervous system with sleep and stress care

Poor sleep and chronic stress can worsen MS symptoms, so it’s important to prioritize good sleep and manage your stress levels.

Try these tips:

• Establish a consistent sleep routine and go to bed at the same time every night
• Limit overstimulation at night
• Build stress-management practices into your day (such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or a relaxing hobby)
• Listen to calming music
• Dim your lights in the evening (bright blue lights can disrupt your circadian rhythm) 

It’s also important to remember that pain can severely disrupt sleep and increase stress levels. If pain from nerve damage or from muscle stiffness interferes with your ability to sleep at night, it may be a sign that your symptoms aren’t fully managed. Don’t hesitate to talk with our team.  

5. Stay consistent with treatment and follow-up

Disease-modifying therapies can help slow down MS progression. Take any prescribed medications and attend your regular neurology visits. Your checkups allow our team to monitor disease activity and adjust treatment as needed.

6. Ask for help when symptoms change

Multiple sclerosis often follows a pattern of flares (relapses) and remission. During a flare, symptoms may suddenly worsen, or new symptoms may appear. About 85% of people with MS are diagnosed with this type of relapse-remitting MS.

Remission means symptoms improve or stabilize, sometimes for months or even years. New or worsening symptoms deserve prompt attention. During an evaluation, we can help determine whether you’re experiencing a true relapse or a temporary flare triggered by stress, illness, or heat.

Expert care for MS so you can live well

At Link Integrated Healthcare in Camarillo, Northridge, Oxnard, Simi Valley, and Santa Barbara, California,  you receive personalized, evidence-based care designed to help you manage MS. 

Our team works with you to monitor disease activity, manage your symptoms, and support your neurological health.

Contact the location closest to you to schedule an appointment to discuss your MS care plan.