Tips for common MS symptoms

• Learn when you have the most energy during your day, and plan your most taxing activities for that time
• Divide large jobs into smaller ones. For instance, don’t set out to clean the house. Instead, plan to start with cleaning the bathroom
• Whether it’s finding an air-conditioned room or drinking a cold beverage, develop ways to cool down so you can avoid becoming overheated 
• For some people, taking a nap may help recharge their energy
• Avoid sugar-loaded energy drinks. These give you a quick sugar rush but don't lead to sustained energy. Only consume fast food, junk food, and processed foods in moderation. They load you up with calories—not nutrition

Find additional tips on how to manage fatigue.

• Cool down the affected area with ice, water, or a cooling device

Learn more about numbness or tingling.

• Speak with your healthcare provider about whether or not medications may help
• Try taking breaks when reading or spending time on the computer to avoid wearing out your eyes
• Your healthcare provider may recommend an eye patch to help with double vision

• There is a technique called cognitive rehabilitation. Your healthcare provider can refer you to a specialist, such as an occupational therapist or neuropsychologist, who can explain more
• Certain tools can help you work around memory problems. For instance, keep a calendar, write notes, make lists, and use a smartphone for alerts/reminders
• Fitness may be associated with positive results on cognitive tests for MS patients
• Adding an exercise routine may help with memory and focus

• If you experience mood changes, your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines to help with feelings of anxiety, depression, irritability, and other changes in mood
• Consider speaking with a psychologist about changes in your mood. Therapy can be a helpful tool for addressing these new feelings

• A physical therapist may be one option that can help teach you simple exercises that may help with balance and coordination
• Adaptive equipment such as a cane or crutches may help you get around

• A physical therapist can assess your condition, help you work with your body, and give you simple exercises to do on your own
• Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter pain medicines that may help

• Consider limiting caffeine and alcohol, which can be bladder irritants. However, cutting back on your fluids can cause further complications. Try strategically planning your fluid intake based on your schedule. For example, drink more during times of the day when you are home or close to a bathroom
• Try not to drink too much after dinner to limit disruption to sleep
• Try to urinate every 2 hours to help train your bladder
• Aim to drink enough water to keep your urine light yellow

Check out this video for urination tips and tools.

• Men have many options available if they are unable to get and maintain an erection. Your healthcare provider can tell you more. Speak to your healthcare provider if you’re having these types of issues
• Women may experience vaginal dryness. There are many over-the-counter medicines you can try. Speak to your healthcare provider if you’re having these types of issues so he or she can recommend a proper treatment solution

Learn more about the importance of discussing sex with your healthcare team.

• Stay in an air-conditioned environment during periods of extreme heat and humidity
• Use cooling products such as vests, neck wraps, and bandanas during exercise or outdoor activity
• Drinking cold fluids may provide temporary relief

Get more tips on keeping cool.