Professor Adi Vaknin-Dembinsky Senior neurologist, department of neurology, Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center, Jerusalem – Board Member of the Advisory Medical Council in the Israeli Multiple Sclerosis Society
Question: Several times a week, I experience numbness in my abdomen, back, and entire left side, along with tingling and severe body stiffness. What should I do?
Answer:
First, it is essential to consult a doctor:
- Neurologist: To determine if MS lesions are causing these symptoms and whether the disease is active.
- Primary Care Physician: To rule out other potential causes unrelated to MS.
If the cause cannot be addressed directly or MS cannot be optimally managed, symptomatic treatments should be considered. There are several options for managing these symptoms, but the decision should be made after a comprehensive examination, taking into account your medical history and any underlying conditions.
Question: A week before my period, I experience severe pain and stiffness in my lower back and above. What should I do?
Answer:
Start by consulting a gynecologist. Hormonal and inflammatory changes around the menstrual cycle can sometimes cause MS lesions that are otherwise inactive to produce symptoms.
Treatment options for such menstrual-related issues are similar to those available for any woman experiencing these symptoms. If these treatments are not effective, consult your MS specialist neurologist for further evaluation and management.
Question: Over the past two years, I’ve experienced increased difficulties and symptoms, with one of the most challenging being fatigue and weakness. I feel physically limited and unable to function like others. Carrying a backpack or even light bags is difficult, affecting my balance and physical strength. Walking feels heavy, my eyes feel tired, and overall, I feel weak. Can this be improved? Could it be related to Ocrevus?
Answer:
This sounds like fatigue, a very common symptom in MS. Typically, it is not a side effect of treatments like Ocrevus.
Possible interventions:
- Medications:
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- Provigil (Modafinil) or medications from the SNRI class can help manage fatigue.
- Ensure adequate vitamin D levels, as supplementation can sometimes improve energy levels.
- Lifestyle modifications:
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- Despite the difficulty, engage in light physical activity, such as short walks, to maintain energy levels and improve overall well-being.
A comprehensive plan combining medical and lifestyle adjustments can help alleviate fatigue and improve daily functioning. Consult your healthcare provider to tailor a solution to your specific needs.
