The Importance of Personal Alarms in Managing Early Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

4. Muscle Weakness or Spasms

Muscle stiffness and muscle spasms are common MS symptoms that affects nearly 40 to 80% of people with MS. Due to these symptoms mentioned, individuals with multiple sclerosis may face challenges in maintaining an active lifestyle and may experience disruptions in their daily routines.

5. Balance and Coordination Issues

Multiple sclerosis primarily affects the central nervous system, impacting the brain and spinal cord, which are two components responsible for balance and coordination. As the protective covering of nerve fibers (myelin) is damaged, the communication between nerve cells becomes disrupted, leading to challenges in maintaining equilibrium, controlling movements, and responding swiftly to changes in posture.

6. Dizziness or Vertigo

Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or experiencing a spinning sensation is one of the early signs of multiple sclerosis that may be attributed to disruptions in the central nervous system. Such sensations can be triggered by demyelination, a process where the protective covering of nerve fibers is damaged.

7. Pain or Discomfort

Experiencing sharp or stabbing sensations, along with general discomfort in the nerves, is one of the common symptoms that people with MS experience from time to time. This is referred to as neuropathic pain, a condition arising from nerve damage or interruptions in the transmission of signals to the brain.

8. Problems with Cognitive Function

Individuals who have MS often display neurological symptoms that involve having difficulties with memory, attention, and problem-solving. This is because the brain and spinal cord are attacked by the immune system, leading to inflammation and damage to the myelin sheath, a protective covering around nerve fibers.

9. Anxiety and Depression

Almost 50% of those who have MS experience anxiety and depression due to the inflammation that affects the areas in the brain that regulate moods. These emotional challenges not only affect an individual's daily functioning but it can also impact the overall well-being of an individual in terms of relationships, work, and social activities. Anxiety and depression symptoms may start from feeling down or having negative thoughts to severe clinical depression that can last for months.

10. Bowel Problems

Most individuals with MS experience bowel problems that may involve constipation or disruptions in bowel function. These issues often arise due to the impact of the condition on the nerves responsible for regulating bowel movements. Constipation can result from reduced activity, slowing down the movement of food in your digestive system. On the other hand, diarrhea and incontinence can occur when the nerves in your body don't function properly.

11. Sexual Dysfunction

If nerve damage related to multiple sclerosis occurs in the areas of your brain and spinal cord associated with sexual function, you may experience difficulties with erections and ejaculation. These may include changes in sexual function such as arousal and orgasm, as damage to nerve pathways in the central nervous system may disrupt these processes.

What are the common types of multiple sclerosis?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can manifest in various forms, each characterised by distinct patterns of symptom development and progression. Its common types include:

Clinically isolated syndrome

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS) involves a single episode of neurological symptoms resulting from inflammation or demyelination in the central nervous system. While this is not a type of Multiple Sclerosis, CIS is often considered one of the early signs that an individual may be at an increased risk of developing MS.

Relapsing-remitting MS

Relapsing-remitting MS is the most common form of MS, characterised by episodes of new or worsening symptoms, known as relapses or exacerbations, followed by periods of partial or complete recovery (remission).

Secondary progressive MS

Many individuals with Relapsing-remitting MS eventually transition to this MS, where there is a gradual worsening of symptoms and less distinct relapse-remission cycles. During this phase, the disease often evolves into a more steady progression of disability, with fewer periods of symptom improvement.

Primary progressive MS

During a primary progressive ms, individuals experience a steady worsening of symptoms from the onset, without distinct relapses and remissions. Progression in PPMS is continuous, often leading to increased disability over time.

Lifestyle Modifications

Engage in a tailored exercise program to improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Try low-impact activities such as swimming, yoga, or walking to enhance cardiovascular health without placing excessive stress on the joints. Exercise is a fundamental component of managing Multiple Sclerosis (MS) as it not only contributes to physical well-being but also helps alleviate fatigue. In addition, adopt a well-balanced diet to support overall health. Always stay hydrated and consider dietary adjustments if bowel or bladder symptoms are present.

Regular Medical Check-ups

Schedule regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment plans accordingly. This is crucial in order to assess whether the current treatment plan is effective or if there are other symptoms that have emerged since the last visit.

Use Personal Alarms

Assistive technologies, such as personal alarms, can be used to trigger an emergency response centre during an emergency. By receiving prompt assistance, further complications or risks associated with multiple sclerosis can be minimised.

Is multiple sclerosis dangerous?

Multiple Sclerosis itself is not inherently life-threatening, and many individuals with MS lead full and productive lives. However, the impact of MS can vary widely from person to person. While some individuals may experience relatively mild symptoms, others may face more significant challenges that can affect their everyday living.

On average, people with this chronic condition may live 5 to 10 years less than the general population. However, this has positively reduced over time as advancements in medical care and management strategies have contributed to improved outcomes.

Good news, people diagnosed with MS can live long, active and healthy lives with the right care and support. Aside from innovative treatments, common symptoms of MS can be managed with the help of personal alarms. Not only do personal alarms serve as a safety net during emergencies, but they also contribute to daily peace of mind for individuals managing multiple sclerosis.

Why are personal alarms important for people with multiple sclerosis?

Personal alarms serve as a lifeline for those living with MS, a condition known for its unpredictable nature. Below are some of the reasons why personal alarms are crucial for people with MS:

Emergency Assistance

People with MS are prone to a variety of symptoms that can affect different aspects of their daily lives. These symptoms can range from muscle weakness and balance problems to neurological symptoms and painful sensations. With personal alarms, people with MS can easily summon help during an MS attack.

Fall Prevention

Balance and coordination issues are common in people with MS. As a consequence, they can be at an increased risk of falls. Some personal alarms are equipped with fall detection features that can automatically alert caregivers or emergency services if a fall occurs. Even if the individual is not able to press the SOS button, they can ensure that help is on the way.

Timely Medication Reminders

Most people with MS take medications at least once daily to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the condition. If this routine is not followed consistently, it may lead to fluctuations in symptom control and potentially impact the overall effectiveness of the treatment plan. Some personal alarms give users the ability to set medication reminders so they can stay on top of their prescribed schedule.

Enhance Independence

Personal alarms allow individuals with MS to live independently by assuring that help is readily available with just a press of a button. Whether they require immediate help due to a sudden symptom flare-up or want to notify someone about their well-being, these devices allow individuals to confidently navigate their daily routines, knowing that support is just a button press away.

Peace of Mind

Caregivers of people with MS often experience concerns about their loved ones' safety. Personal alarms offer peace of mind by making sure that a reliable alert system is in place. This allows caregivers to provide support more efficiently and respond promptly to any type of emergencies.

Real-Time Communication

Some personal alarms come with a two-way voice communication feature that enables the user to speak with a qualified professional during an emergency. This ensures immediate access to expert advice and support when it's most needed. Whether it's a medical issue, a fall, or any other urgent situation, users can directly communicate their needs, which allows for a more personalised and efficient response.

Takeaway

Multiple sclerosis is a disabling disease that has no cure. It is characterised by a range of symptoms that can significantly impact the daily lives of those affected. Thus, it is important to explore various strategies to enhance the quality of life of individuals living with it.

Aside from medical treatment, lifestyle modification, and regular check-ups, personal alarms are important for people with MS in order to provide them with quick access to help during emergencies. Through personal alarms, symptoms of MS can be managed and individuals can gain a greater sense of control over their lives.

At INS LifeGuard, we offer a range of proven and tested personal alarms equipped with advanced technology that can effectively cater to the needs of individuals with MS, among others. Featuring emergency assistance, fall detection, medication reminders, and two-way voice communication, our devices guarantee comprehensive support for managing the symptoms of MS.

Get in touch with us today to learn more.