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Our support group is for you and for those who are supporting you, in the understanding of Multiple Sclerosis. If we can help you live a better quality of life with MS, then together we have accomplished our goal.
READERS TIPS
VARYING FORMS OF EXACERBATIONS: KNOW THE DIFFERENCE:
Exacerbation From The MS Information Sourcebook, produced by the National MS Society. An exacerbation (also known as an attack, a relapse, or a flare) is a sudden worsening of an MS symptom or symptoms, or the appearance of new symptoms, which lasts at least 24 hours and is separated from a previous exacerbation by at least one month. The most common disease course in MS, called relapsing-remitting MS, is characterized by clearly defined acute exacerbations, followed by complete or partial recovery with no progression of the disease between attacks. True Exacerbations Generally Last Days to Weeks
A true exacerbation of MS is caused by an area of inflammation in the central nervous system. This is followed by demyelination-the destruction of myelin, which is the fatty sheath that surrounds and protects the nerve fibers. Demyelination results in the formation of an abnormal area called a plaque and causes the nerve impulses to be slowed, distorted, or halted, producing the symptoms of MS. One example of an exacerbation of MS would be the development of optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve that impairs vision. An exacerbation may be mild or may significantly interfere with the individual's daily life. Exacerbations usually last from several days to several weeks, although they may extend into months. It is generally accepted that a short course of corticosteroids will cause an exacerbation to be shorter and/or less severe. Pseudoexacerbations Temporarily Aggravate MS Problems
Sometimes an increase in symptoms has nothing to do with the underlying MS, but is caused by factors such as fever, infection, or hot weather that can temporarily aggravate MS problems. This is referred to as a pseudoexacerbation. Some patients report a worsening of their symptoms during or after periods of intense stress. Researchers are exploring the effects of stress on the immune system and its possible involvement in MS. Remission
A remission does not mean that all the symptoms of MS disappear, but rather that a person with MS returns to the baseline that existed before the last exacerbation began.
THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
Should I Continue or Quit? The answer to your question willl be found in this profound statement that originated with sir Winston Churchill: "To each there comes in their lifetime a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to them and fitted to their talents. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified for that which could have been their finest hour." Participate at your earliest opportunity and complete the preparation to fulfill your dreams.
Mark Your Calendars
Group Activities:
Our support group will be meeting the first Friday of the month. Come join us for our next meeting - February 2nd at Florida Waterman Hospital for a lively and positive informative meeting!
Questions & Answers
Does stress affect multiple sclerosis?
By understanding some of the psychological changes that accompany chronic disease, one may take an active role to achieve a more healthy mental state. Psychotherapy or counseling, and body cooling are ways one can relieve stress. Some prefer alternative treatment options, including relaxation techniques (exercise, yoga, massage therapy, meditation, biofeedback, and music) to learn ways to manage unavoidable stress. With MS, the stress that must be managed is the “distress” that may hamper our ability to cope with the events and people in our lives.
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