Living with multiple sclerosis can be challenging. Fatigue, vision problems, memory lapses and other MS symptoms can have a major impact on daily activities. However, a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis doesn’t mean the end of living well. There are many techniques, treatments and lifestyle changes that can help you manage your disease. In this article, we’ve got some tips that will help you live independently and stay safe.

All MS treatments can have some side effects and all people with multiple sclerosis respond differently to different medications. Some injected MS treatments may cause flu-like side effects, such as fever, chills, muscle aches and tiredness. For many people, the flu-like side effects lessen or go away over time. If you receive an injected MS treatment, then change the time of day that you take your injection. Many people choose bedtime so they can sleep through many of the side effects. Take over-the-counter pain medications. They can help reduce pain or fever. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have an allergic reaction to a multiple sclerosis drug.

One of the most difficult parts of living with MS is coping with the mental and physical fatigue. It’s one of the symptoms of MS, but it can also be caused by some medications. Depending on the type of fatigue, your doctor may recommend aerobic exercise, physical therapy or occupational therapy. Prioritizing your responsibilities, pacing yourself, and delegating work to others will help to conserve your energy. Depression is common and it is managed the same way as depression that occurs without the medicine: an antidepressant medication and/or counseling.

Living with multiple sclerosis will mean making changes to your living environment. Making specific changes around the home can significantly reduce injuries or mitigate high-risk situations, such as falling or getting a burn. For the sake of safety, you should have hand rails and other supports installed in the bathtub. You should also use the microwave instead of a traditional stove and kettle. If you do use a stove, then select a model with controls located at the front, use the back burners whenever possible, and use a stove guard which fits around the side or front of the appliance. Buy a kettle and iron with an automatic switch-off.

The world can be a dangerous place when you’re Living With Multiple Sclerosis, so it’s important to take the necessary steps to make your home safe. You can find more advice from The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, at a multiple sclerosis center or at any source that provides multiple sclerosis information.