12 Important Things You Should Know About Relapsing MS

"It. Is. Not. Contagious."

1. It. Is. Not. Contagious.

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Hugging or kissing or being in the same office as someone with MS will not make you "contract" MS. We promise.

2. Just because you can't see a symptom doesn't mean it isn't there.

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For many people with MS, symptoms can be invisible to others, but the person with the disease may feel tired, confused, or in pain.

3. Everyone's MS is different.

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Symptoms and experiences vary from person to person, so don’t just google MS and expect it to be the same for everyone. Likewise, different treatment options are available; some treat MS, some treat related symptoms. People may use pills, injections, or other options.

4. Just because some days (or weeks, or months) are better than others doesn't mean they're "cured."

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RRMS, or relapsing-remitting MS, is the most common type of the disease. Though there is no cure, as the name implies, people who have it can feel partially or completely relieved of symptoms for varying amounts of time, but those symptoms often return or worsen in time despite treatments that can help. And though it may be frustrating for you to see a loved one "relapse" after feeling better, imagine how much harder it must be for them.

5. Canceling plans repeatedly isn't anything personal. Promise.

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For some people with MS, fatigue can be so extreme that normal social activities can feel totally and completely exhausting. If they cancel plans a few times in a row, don't give up on them — and try to be understanding.

6. They're not fated to be in a wheelchair.

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With treatments available to help delay disability progression and other advancements, more people with MS are staying mobile longer.

7. It doesn't always just affect one's body.

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People with MS can also experience cognitive issues — or "cog fog," as they call it — such as trouble with spatial relations, problem-solving, or concentration.

8. Exercising sucks even more than usual, but it can keep people with MS from feeling worse.

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It can be hot and exhausting, but regular exercise can help people with MS improve their strength and has been linked to better bladder and bowel function, less fatigue, and a more positive attitude.

9. And their definitions of "tired" and "confused" and "fatigued" are different from yours.

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You might be tired after a long day of work, or splitting the bill among seven people at a restaurant could be confusing, but for many people with MS, these feelings can be debilitating and interfere with their everyday routine.

10. Choosing your food wisely isn't intended to be annoying; it's an important part of staying healthy.

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For those with MS, monitoring what they eat is a key aspect of maintaining better general health.

11. The person is not the disease.

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They're still your friend, brother, sister, mom, dad, son, or daughter who's funny, unique, talented, driven, and human — don't look at them and see just the MS. Though it will always be a part of their day-to-day life, it's not who they are.

12. People with MS can live productive lives, thank you very much.

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People with MS work, drive, travel, play sports, maintain meaningful family and social lives, contribute to the community, and pursue their dreams with as much passion as anyone else.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS), speak with your doctor about treatments that may help.

Brought to you by MS LifeLines sponsored by EMD Serono, Inc.
This information is intended only for residents of the United States.
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