Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain and spinal cord. When a person has MS, the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective material that surrounds the nerves. That protective layer is called myelin.
When the myelin deteriorates, it cannot do its job and eventually, the nerves are also damaged. MS causes a wide variety of symptoms depending on which nerves are affected. Understanding some of the nerves that your aging relative with MS might be experiencing can help you to better manage the condition and determine what might be caused by MS and what could be another health problem. Below are some common symptoms caused by MS.
Fatigue
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, approximately 80 percent of people who have MS experience fatigue. Fatigue is more than just being tired. It occurs even if the senior has had plenty of rest. It can disrupt their normal routine and prevent them from engaging in their regular activities. Sometimes fatigue is the main symptom in people who have few physical symptoms.
Trouble Walking
There are several things that can occur with MS that can affect your aging relative’s ability to walk. They may experience numbness and tingle in their legs that makes walking uncomfortable and affects their gait. Their balance may be affected as well, and they may have tremors.
Weakness
Muscles may become weak because of the nerves that serve the muscle are damaged. Muscle weakness might also be caused by a lack of conditioning because of a lack of use. Sometimes the muscles can be strengthened using physical therapy or can be compensated for by using a walking aid, such as a cane or walker.
Cognitive Problems
Over 50 percent of people with MS report having cognitive changes. They may have trouble focusing or have a reduced ability to learn or remember new information. Some people with MS take longer to process information.
Regardless of the symptoms, your older family member is experiencing, elder care can help them to live better and more comfortably in their home. An elder care provider can allow the senior to rest when they feel fatigued by taking care of house care duties, such as cleaning and doing laundry. Home care providers can also aid the older adult to walk safely when their gait is affected by MS, ensuring they don’t fall. In addition, elder care can offer transportation when the symptoms of MS make it impossible for your aging relative to drive safely on their own.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Care in Walnut Creek, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.nationalmssociety.org/
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