Focus On Yourself At Least Once Every Day

Each New Year brings hope and a sense of optimism amidst a potentially gloomy season with brittle cold weather and often gray skies. It is a time to begin with a proverbial clean slate. A time to start fresh and improve something about your life — eat better, exercise more, spend less money, read more books, learn a new skill — practically any goal can become a New Year’s resolution.

But there’s something about resolutions — they’re hard to keep. Each January, many people make an effort to do something different and end up disappointing themselves when a month later their resolve has fizzled into the gray sky. It can be total resolution evaporation.

My suggestion to prevent the evaporation? Make only one resolution: Focus on yourself once every day.

Life presented many challenges to me in the past 9 months. It was a really tough year. As a result, I did not take care of myself as I should. I stopped exercising. I stopped going out and having a blast on my bike. I stopped caring what I ate. I focused simply on surviving and taking care of others.

Maybe you can relate. At some time in your life, perhaps you have fallen victim to ignoring your own needs too. It’s an all too common situation, no matter what the details of the circumstances are. What you and I need to do now is to find a way to begin to take care of ourselves without a total resolution meltdown.

Once I realize what I really need — to show myself kindness and love — I can find ways to do just that. It’s not an easy task, honestly, because I’m so programmed to take care of everybody and everything else first. But there’s always going to be something else to do.
Since my neglected needs are primarily physical, I have chosen a physical solution. Your needs may be emotional, social, recreational, or financial, thus your solution should match the corresponding need.


Here are the questions I asked myself in order to identify what I need to do to show myself kindness and love within my current circumstances.

Read this post in its entirety:

The Only Resolution You Need to Make

Shingrix versus Zostavax for People with MS

People with MS may be at higher risk of getting shingles because of reduced immune system function due to disease-modifying treatments. High-dose steroids, often used during relapses, may also increase the risk of a shingles outbreak.

One of the biggest differences between these two shingles vaccines is the fact that Zostavax contains a live-attenuated (weakened) virus to stimulate the immune system, while Shingrix is a non-live, subunit vaccine that works by introducing only a small part of the actual microbe. Those of us living with multiple sclerosis or many other chronic diseases take medications that reduce the effectiveness of our immune systems. Because of this we can’t receive vaccines that contain live virus, which would put us as even greater risk of developing the very disease we’re trying to protect ourselves from.

Since Shingrix does not contain live virus, it should be much safer for people with lowered immune systems. My doctor was very happy to inform me of this during our routine medical visit. I was thrilled to learn the news. ACIP should issue recommendations on the use of Shingrix in people with compromised immunity in February 2018.

Even if you've already had shingles, it is still a good idea to be vaccinated. An episode of shingles might provide a few years of protection from recurrence, but that protection fades away. People who have already had the Zostavax vaccine can also receive the Shingrix vaccine. In fact, the ACIP recommends it.

My experience with shingles

In August 2005, I was still in the process of being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and was prescribed a five-day course of intravenous solumedrol (IVSM), followed by an oral steroid taper, to reduce inflammation. It was an extraordinarily stressful time because the steroids temporarily reduced my immune system. By the time September rolled around, I began to develop small, itchy blisters on one side of my face and neck. I recognized the outbreak as shingles because a family member had recently contracted the virus.

Several antiviral medications — acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir — may be used to reduce the severity of shingles and shorten its duration. But these medications need to be taken as soon as possible after the shingles rash appears in order to be effective. Since I recognized my own case of shingles, I went to the ER for assessment and treatment. It’s a good thing I did because my rash was very close to my eye. The ER doctor had an ophthalmologist examine my eye carefully to make sure that the virus had not entered it. Thankfully, it was fine.

Read this post in its entirety:

The New Shingles Vaccine is Good News for People with MS

Using Disease-Modifying Therapies to Slow Down Multiple Sclerosis

Currently available disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are primarily used in relapsing forms of the disease, including relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), secondary-progressive MS (SPMS) in patients still having relapses, and progressive-relapsing MS (PRMS). Some DMTs are also approved for delaying a second exacerbation in people who have been diagnosed with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). One DMT has been approved for primary progressive MS (PPMS).

Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can be grouped together in a variety of ways. They can be categorized as oral drugs, self-injectables, or infusible medications; or they may be identified by their mechanism of action (MOA, or how they work). DMTs can also be divided into so-called first-line agents, which are common initial treatment choices for people diagnosed with MS, or second-line agents, which are typically reserved for patients who have not responded adequately or are unable to tolerate first-line drugs.

Self-injectable DMTs

Self-injectable disease-modifying therapies considered to be first-line options include Avonex (interferon beta-1a), Rebif (interferon beta-1a), Betaseron (interferon beta-1b), Extavia (interferon beta-1b), Copaxone (glatiramer acetate), and Glatopa (glatiramer acetate). Interferon beta drugs are FDA- approved to treat all relapsing forms of MS. With the exception of Rebif, interferon beta drugs are also approved for use in CIS. Copaxone is a synthetic polypeptide agent which is approved for RRMS and CIS. An additional injectable medication includes Plegridy (pegylated interferon beta-1a).

Oral DMTs

Since 2010, three oral therapies, each with different mechanisms of action, have been approved by the FDA for treatment of relapsing forms of MS. Gilenya (fingolimod) is the first in a new class of oral MS medications, called sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators, which suppress lymphocyte circulation in the immune system. Two other agents in this class are currently in clinical trials. Aubagio (teriflunomide) is also the first in a new class of oral MS medications called pyrimidine synthesis inhibitors which have anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties that have been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. Tecfidera (dimethyl fumarate) is in a class of drugs called Nrf2 activators believed to have anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective properties.

Intravenous DMTs

Intravenous therapies include Tysabri (natalizumab), Ocrevus (ocrelizumab), Lemtrada (alemtuzumab), and Novatrone (mitoxantrone) which are typically reserved as second-line treatment choices. Tysabri, a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to alpha-4 integrin and inhibits T-cells from crossing the blood-brain-barrier, is administered every 4 weeks by specially trained healthcare providers. Tysabri is approved for relapsing forms of MS and is highly effective, but carries the risk of a serious brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Ocrevus, a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to and depletes CD20+ B-cells, is administered twice a year with the first dose split into two infusions. Ocrevus is associated with infusion-related reactions and increased risk of breast cancer.

Read this post in its entirety:

Slowing Down Long-Term Progression of Multiple Sclerosis With Disease-Modifying Therapies

2017 Top HealthCentral Multiple Sclerosis Posts

From personal stories, embarrassing stories, and inspirational stories to research news, bizarre symptoms, and talks of life changes due to MS, we covered a little of everything in 2017.

Life changes with MS

A chronic condition like MS may mean not being able to enjoy the things you did before diagnosis — but it can also result in new pursuits and pleasures.

Read about the 3 things Lisa misses most about life before multiple sclerosis.

Life is created from memorable moments

MS Moments: Urinary Incontinence in the Street

Urinary incontinence is an embarrassing symptom of multiple sclerosis that can occur at the most inopportune moments.

Fear of Change: A Relapsing MS Moment

Handling the ups and downs of multiple sclerosis takes practice, patience, and persistence.

Celebrating caregivers

My Husband, My Caregiver

Caregiving takes practice when MS is a third wheel in the relationship.

A Balancing Act: Being a Caregiver for a Wife With MS

In 1992, Liz Hoy was diagnosed with MS. Since then, her husband Mike has cared for her and been a tireless advocate on her behalf.

Being a Caregiver When You Have a Chronic Illness

It’s necessary to focus on self-care before you can care for a loved one in crisis.

Answering important questions

Weakness, Numbness, and Tingling in My Hands: Is it MS or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Distinguishing between the symptoms of multiple sclerosis and those of other conditions can be difficult at times.

Is Gut Bacteria Associated With MS?

The gut microbiome is a hot research topic these days. Some studies suggest that gut health might be associated with multiple sclerosis.

So how are you really doing?

The many shades of “I’m Fine.”

When you’re living with a chronic condition, it’s not always easy to answer when people ask, “How are you?”

Focusing on mental health may help you to clean out the emotional clutter of MS.

Exercise to improve MS symptoms

Benefits of Tai Chi for Multiple Sclerosis

Tai Chi, a mindfulness-based exercise program, has been studied in clinical trials to determine if it improves multiple sclerosis symptoms.

What is Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy?

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is an exercise-based treatment program designed to improve your brain’s ability to adapt to vestibular problems and to use other senses to compensate for deficiencies.

Be more than your MS

Shining in a Glamorous World

Lacy Gadegaard, founder and owner of Laced Hair Extensions, gets candid about how being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis saved her life.

How Does Personality Affect Cognition in MS?

Personality traits, such as openness to new experiences, may help to protect memory function and cognition in people living with MS.

Maintain access to accessible parking

Accessible parking is one of the more controversial issues in the MS community. Many people have mixed feeling about the need to park in spaces that offer increased access.

So, why should you get a disabled parking placard?

Once you have your placard, be sure to park within the lines of the designated spaces. Others need to park there too.

Here’s how NOT to park in the accessible parking space.

Facing common symptoms of MS

A Wintry Mix: The Effect of Cold Temperatures on MS Symptoms

While some people with multiple sclerosis are heat intolerant and have trouble during the summer, others are sensitive to cold temperatures.

What Can Cause Dizziness in MS?

Dizziness associated with multiple sclerosis is about more than vertigo or loss of balance.

Why Does MS Make My Legs Hurt?

Pain in MS comes in many forms — neuropathic pain, musculoskeletal pain, spasticity, and spasms; each can make your legs hurt.

And less common MS symptoms

MS and My Bloodhound Nose

Hyperosmia, an increased sense of smell, is one of those weird MS things I’ve learned to live with.

MS Signs and Symptoms: Loss of Taste or Hypogeusia

Smell and taste are closely related, but an altered sense of taste may signal MS progression.

MS Signs and Symptoms: What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a symptom of multiple sclerosis that causes intense pain in the face and jaw.

Welcoming 2018

As we look forward to 2018, we invite you to live BOLD, live NOW, and be empowered to take control of your health. Please join us in our MS HealthCentral Facebook community and follow us on Twitter @MSHealthCentral.

Read this post in its entirety:
HealthCentral Top Multiple Sclerosis Posts of 2017 

Real MS Profiles: Meet Kathleen G

Kathleen G. was diagnosed with MS in 2006 after a very long year of testing. We spoke with Kathleen about her MS. Here is an excerpt from our discussion.

Q: How has MS impacted your life?
Kathleen: My life ended while I was waiting to be diagnosed. My brain didn't work right anymore and I couldn't do my job. I couldn't do any job because I didn't know how I would feel from one day to the next. My kids were in high school, middle school, and elementary school. I couldn't keep up with them. I was so emotional that they lost a lot of respect for me really fast.

Q: Have you made any conscious lifestyle changes due to MS? If so, have they affected your quality of life?
Kathleen: I went back to bare basics. Moved out of a big house that I couldn't get around in to a tiny one-bedroom apartment with utilities included. Something finally clicked inside me. I focused less on stress and trying to do what I should be doing and instead be OK with doing what I could.

Q: What are your greatest joys with MS?
Kathleen: I was so happy to just know what the heck was wrong with me, I didn't care what it was. At least I knew, and no one could say it was all in my head anymore!

Q: If your MS were an animal, what would it be and why?
Kathleen: A sloth—because that's how I feel most of the time. And because MS is ugly and dirty with even more disgusting twists and turns the more you learn about it.

Read this post in its entirety:
RealMSProfiles: Kathleen G

What Do I Mean When I Say I'm Fine?

Living with a chronic condition, such as multiple sclerosis, brings with it a heavy load of emotional, physical, and social challenges. The symptoms alone can be perplexing and are never the same between two people. Lately, there’s one social challenge that has been on my mind—how to respond to the question, “How are you?”

When in a group setting, I almost always respond with “I’m fine,” or “I’m good,” without thinking about it. An upbeat “I’m fine” is automatic. When in a one-on-one setting, I may pause and consider how exactly I want the conversation to go. If I’m with a very close friend, I might expand my response and go into more detail, regardless if the update skews positive or negative.

When talking to my husband, I want to be honest but I also know how much he wants me to feel well. Depending upon what type of support I need at the moment, I might allow my empathy for his feelings to color my response. I don’t like to feel as though I am dumping all my crap on him. But when I need extra support or understanding, I feel safe in sharing what’s really going on and how I feel about it. When I tell my husband “I’m good,” it generally means I feel confident that I can manage things at the moment.

Earlier this summer, I was experiencing increased pain due to knee osteoarthritis and was seeking care from my orthopedic doctor who prescribed a series of injections. My mother-in-law has had her own knee problems, so she felt sympathy for what I was going through. I visited her following one of my knee injections and she asked how I was. My response was a neutral “I’m okay.” Her brow furrowed and she replied, “Not good, then?” “No, I’m doing fine,” I insisted. Her experience colored how she heard my simple words.

Read this post in its entirety:
The Many Shades of I'm Fine