What can I do to reduce my risk of MS symptom progression?

There are a few important steps you can take to manage your multiple sclerosis (MS) and reduce the impact of your MS:

1. When to start treatment

Treatment can reduce the frequency and severity of relapses and slow the impact of MS on daily activities. A study found that, during the first 2 years of the disease, there is a "window of opportunity" where treatment has the most impact on slowing down disability caused by the condition: people who had fewer relapses in the first 2 years of the disease were at a lower risk of disability caused by MS progression.

To determine when best to start treatment, speak to your neurologist about your treatment options early in the disease.

2. Follow your MS treatment plan

Because treatment can help slow progression of symptoms, it's important to follow your MS treatment exactly as recommended by your doctor. You may find it hard to stick with treatment if you aren't having any noticeable MS symptoms. But even when you aren't having symptoms, MS may still be causing damage. That's why it's a good idea to stay with your treatment plan.

If you have questions or concerns about your MS treatment, get help! Use the Treatment Check-Up tool to see whether it's time to speak to your neurologist about your treatment.

3. See your neurologist regularly

Your neurologist will follow your progress to make sure you are on the most appropriate therapy for you. Ask your neurologist how often you should return for follow-up visits, and use the Doctor Discussion Guide to help you prepare for your visit.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Understanding-the-Risk-of-MS-Progression