Dr. Hadar Kolb – Senior Neurologist, Neuro-Immunology Unit, Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv – Board Member of the Advisory Medical Council in the Israeli Multiple Sclerosis Society
Question: Frequently, I experience numbness in my abdomen, back, and entire left side, along with tingling and severe body stiffness. What can be done?
Answer:
Sensory disturbances, muscle stiffness, or spasms are common symptoms for people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Triggers that may worsen these symptoms include infections, hot or humid weather, fatigue, sudden movements, changes in posture, or sensory irritants (e.g., tight clothing). Identifying and minimizing these triggers can help manage symptoms.
Lifestyle adjustments such as staying hydrated, using air conditioning, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining good sleep hygiene can also help manage these triggers.
Frequent muscle stretching, physiotherapy focusing on strengthening and stretching the affected muscles, and hydrotherapy can assist in relieving stiffness.
In some cases, medication may be necessary. There are various treatment options available, which should be tailored to your specific needs. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss potential treatments.
Question: A week before my period, I experience severe pain and stiffness in my lower back. What can be done?
Answer:
Some women with MS experience a temporary worsening of neurological symptoms in the days leading up to their menstrual cycle. Hormonal fluctuations and changes in body temperature around the start of the cycle may explain this phenomenon.
If your cycle is regular and you can anticipate when the pain will occur, consider taking anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen or low-dose aspirin in the days leading up to your period. Avoid additional triggers that may exacerbate pain.
If your cycle is irregular, consult a gynecologist to discuss the use of birth control pills, which may also help alleviate these symptoms.
Question: In the past two years, I’ve experienced increased symptoms, particularly fatigue and weakness. I feel physically limited and unable to function like others. Carrying a backpack or even light shopping bags is difficult, affecting my balance and physical abilities. Walking feels heavy, my eyes feel tired, and overall, I feel weak and out of place among others. Can this be improved? Could it be related to Ocrevus?
Answer:
Your description highlights a combination of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, balance issues, vision problems, and stiffness, which are interrelated and compound the impact on daily functioning.
To improve these symptoms:
- Identify and avoid triggers: Factors like high temperatures, intense physical activity, fatigue, and dehydration may exacerbate symptoms. Avoiding these can help reduce their severity.
- Manage fatigue: Fatigue negatively affects physical, mental, and cognitive symptoms. Adapting your lifestyle and, if necessary, using medications for fatigue can significantly improve overall well-being.
- Address other symptoms: Managing pain, muscle stiffness, and related issues with therapeutic and non-therapeutic strategies can enhance functionality.
Discuss these concerns with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan, including both medical and non-medical approaches, to address your symptoms effectively.
