Multiple Sclerosis Care: What Do You Need to Know?

Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system. There are over 200,000 cases in the United States. It begins by affecting the immune system and proceeds to fatty tissue and nerve fibers near the spinal cord and brain. There are treatments that can help manage the disease but unfortunately, there isn’t a cure.

 

Home Health Care in Glenolden PA: Multiple Sclerosis


 
Home Health Care in Glenolden PA: Multiple Sclerosis

 

Family caregivers who have an elderly loved one who has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis should learn all they can about the disease. It is also important to know that your elderly loved one might benefit from having caregivers in their home to help care for them if they have this disease.

 

Types of Multiple Sclerosis

There are different types of multiple sclerosis. Some of these include the following:

  • Relapsing-Remitting. About 85% of those diagnosed with multiple sclerosis have this type of multiple sclerosis. In addition, if your loved one has this type, it most likely will turn into secondary progressive multiple sclerosis within 10 to 20 years.
  • Secondary Progressive. During this stage symptoms, unfortunately, get worse even if your elderly loved one is getting treatment.
  • Primary Progressive. This type of multiple sclerosis affects about 10% of the people who have been diagnosed with the disease.
  • Progressive Relapsing. This type of multiple sclerosis affects about 5% of those diagnosed with the disease.

You should know that most symptoms gradually worsen over time. Most people who suffer from multiple sclerosis deal with more severe symptoms for most stages of the disease.

 

Multiple Sclerosis – Signs to Watch Out For

If you are concerned that your elderly loved one might have this disease, there are some signs that you can watch out for. Some of these include the following:

  • Speech problems
  • Bowel issues
  • Unsteady while walking
  • Bladder issues
  • Dizziness
  • Pain
  • Numbness

These are only a few of the symptoms that you might notice. However, it is important to remember that if you suspect your loved one does have the disease, you should contact their primary medical caregiver right away.

 

Care Plan for Multiple Sclerosis

It is essential for you and you’re elderly loved one to put a care plan in place if they have multiple sclerosis. Their doctor and caregivers can help with this. Here are some important elements you should include in your plans:

  • Exercise. A beginner yoga routine can help your loved one fend off spasticity.
  • Diet. A healthy diet can help your loved one with fatigue.
  • Environment changes. Reducing the clutter within your elderly loved one’s home can help to keep them safe.

It can be stressful taking care of a loved one with multiple sclerosis. Remember to take the time to also care for yourself. You will need time to de-stress and relax from time to time.

 

Conclusion

Now that you know more about multiple sclerosis you can start implementing a plan. The plan can help to ensure that your elderly loved one stays safe and feels as comfortable as possible. Remember, you can also get information and help from your loved one’s doctor.

 

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Health Care in Glenolden, PA, please contact the friendly staff at Suma Home Care.
Call today: (484) 206-4544

 

Sources
Nccih.nih.gov
Nationalmssociety.org

 

Ibrahim & Mariama Suma-Keita