Multiple Sclerosis
What is Multiple sclerosis (MS)?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system. Currently, this is considered an unpredictable autoimmune disorder that affects people differently.
MS can affect any part of the central nervous system, causing multiple Sclerosis symptoms to varying. Almost half of all people living with MS will have an isolated neurological problem, and the other half will have more than one of the following most common symptoms of MS:
- Loss of vision
- Double vision
- Muscle stiffness
- Fatigue
- Vertigo
- Weakness in one or more limbs
- Cognitive problems
- Facial weakness
- Facial Pain
- Depression
- Numbness and tingling
- Bowl and bladder problems
- Sexual dysfunction
- Pain
At this time, MS cannot be cured, but the disorder can be managed. With today's treatments and Lifestyle Medical Supplies, it is possible to limit and stop new injuries to the central nervous system, treat acute attacks, and control and prevent symptoms.
Medical Equipment
Medical equipment that can help elevate your lifestyle for MS patients are as follows:
- Brace
- Cane
- Crutches
- Walker
Other things to consider and items that can help make life easier for those who live with MS are as follows:
Kitchen Aids
Those with MS can experience limited strength in their hands, wrists, and forearms. Preparing food can cause a tremendous amount of stress. Consider programs such as Dinnerly, Blue Apron, Home Chef, or Freshly to help minimize anxiety.
- Electric can and jar openers
- Rocker knives
- Adaptive Utensils
- One-Handed Chopping Board
- Spreadboard
- Hand Grip Reacher
- Kitchen Trolly Walker
- Self-Opening Scissors
- Jar Grip
- Hands-Free Automatic Stirrer
- Food Chopper
- Perching Stool
- Slow Cooker
- Plate Guard
- Partitioned Scoop Plate
- Non-Slip Placement Mats
- Lightweight pots and pans
Bathroom Aids
MS causes limited mobility; bathroom aids can make rooms safer and more accessible.
- Shower chair
- Grab bar
- Nonskid bath mat
- Electric toothbrush
- Big handle or toothpaste in a pump dispenser
Walking Aids
Within 15 years after being diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis, half of those diagnosed with MS will need help walking.
- Braces
- Cane
- Crutches
- Walker
- Wheelchair
- Motorized scooter
Grooming Tools
Easy-to-use clothing fasteners and larger grips on bottles and handles help those with MS navigate dexterity limitations.
- Velcro tabs
- Elastic shoelaces
- Buttonhooks
- Zipper pulls
- Combs and brushes outfitted with large paddle handles
- Lighted magnifying mirror
Driving Modifications
Depending on the stage of MS, adaptive equipment for your vehicle is available. A physical or occupational therapist can help provide training to use special driving equipment safely.
- Hand controls for the gas and brake
- Easy-to-turn steering wheel
- Wheelchair transfer board
Reading
Vision problems are typically an early symptom of MS. If you wear prescription lenses, you can include added prism to eliminate double vision.
- Large computer monitor (adjust the screen resolution settings)
- Screen-reader program