Some lifestyle changes combined with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) may help reduce MS symptoms and slow disease progression. These include exercising and ceasing smoking, among others.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the central nervous system (CNS). Your body attacks myelin, which is the coating that protects the nerves in your brain and spinal cord.
Lifestyle changes alone won’t stop disease progression. However, they may help:
- reduce symptoms
- lower the number of relapses
- improve overall health
- adapt to and compensate for the effects of MS
The Progression of Multiple Sclerosis – What to Expect:
EARLY STAGE: Once the nervous system damage that’s caused by MS reaches a certain stage, symptoms like numbness and tingling in your limbs or vision problems may start to appear.
Relapse Remitting: Many people living with MS often experience symptoms that come and go. Flare-ups may last for weeks or months, followed by periods of remission. The length of time between flares varies from person to person.
Progressive: In this phase, symptoms continue to worsen without periods of remission. Quality of life is affected, and it may become harder to walk, write, speak, or think.
Advanced: Though uncommon, MS can progress to an advanced stage of severe physical symptoms, extremely limited mobility, and, in some cases, serious cognitive difficulties
Keep reading to learn more about 7 tips that could help slow the progression of MS.
1. Quit smoking, if you smoke
Quitting smoking, if you’re a current smoker, may have a big impact on MS.
The authors of a 2020 review Trusted Source suggest that smoking is a risk factor for MS. In particular, smoking has been associated with increasing the risk of MS, as well as worsening the disease’s progression and the severity of symptoms.
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) also suggests that people who smoke may not get the full effect of DMTs.
However, people don’t often see smoking as a risk factor in MS. A 2020 study involving 29 active smokers with MS found that 52%Trusted Source of participants were unaware of a relationship between disease progression and smoking.
Smoking cessation may improve:
- MS symptoms
- the number of relapses
- the level of disability
- motor strength and cognition
If you’re interested in smoking cessation programs, talk with a doctor or check out the resources at Smokefree.gov.
2. Reduce alcohol consumption
Drinking alcohol can temporarily impair balance and coordination, which could make the impact of MS worse, according to the NMSS. For example, you may feel more off balance than usual while under the influence of alcohol.
Alcohol may also cause nerve damage (neuropathy) of the peripheral nerves, leading to weakness and sensory loss. MS may cause weakness and sensory loss due to brain and spine demyelination, so these added effects can be debilitating.
Alcohol may also interfere with certain medications due to the effect it has on the CNS. Because of this, a doctor may recommend lowering your alcohol intake.
3. Incorporate moderate exercise
Moderate exercise may help improve a range of MS symptoms, includingTrusted Source:
- balance
- fatigue
- mobility issues
- pain
It’s important to find an exercise you enjoy that’s at an intensity that works for your fitness level and ability.
A 2020 report Trusted Source suggests that people with MS should aim for 150–300 minutes of exercise and physical activity per week. Focus on gradually progressing based on your abilities, preferences, and safety.
Some activities may include:
- walking
- swimming
- cleaning
- gardening
- yoga
- resistance training
The NMSS also recommends water workouts for stretching tight muscles and improving flexibility. However, the pool temperature should not exceed 84°F (29°C) because excess heat may worsen MS symptoms.
Before starting a new exercise program, it’s important to speak with your healthcare team. A physical or occupational therapist experienced in MS can also develop a personalized program and monitor activity.
4. Make dietary changes
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