Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable chronic illness that affects the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) of nerve fibers, causing various symptoms that range from mild to debilitating.
Most people with MS have a relapsing-remitting form, meaning they experience periods in which their symptoms disappear or improve (remitting) and periods in which they return or worsen (relapsing). While there are medications to treat the symptoms of MS and slow the progression of the disease, there is no cure.
The nature of MS makes it difficult to predict the course of the disease for each person. Some people may remain independent, and others may need the help of a caregiver to complete tasks of daily living, such as cooking or getting around. The level of care necessary for a person with MS can change from day to day.
Being a caregiver for someone with MS isn’t always easy. In this article, you will learn how to support someone with MS, what to say and what not to say, how to take care of yourself as a caregiver, and other resources.
