Patient Self-Management

As many may know doctor’s appointments are not as easy to come by as they were back in the day. Many patients decide to take it upon themselves to take care of their body and disease on their own. There is nothing wrong with this by any means, but it is important to get approval from the doctor, as well as advice on what truly will work to help with multiple sclerosis. Self- management among patients with MS can help reduce pain, fatigue, and depression symptoms. Self-management is an important way for doctors and physicians to help empower and prepare patients for their own health and health care. While reading through articles, I found a few self-management tips that were extremely helpful. For starters, MS varies from day to day, and some days are way easier than others. As individual with MS, you need to prepare a backup plan in case you can’t fulfill your plans for that day due to symptoms flaring up. For example, if you were preparing to go grocery shopping, make arrangements with a neighbor or friend to go for you or with you, in case your body isn’t up for the trip. Secondly, have the right devices and tools in reach. If your case of MS greatly affects mobility, make sure you have a wheelchair, cane, or walker close by. As well keep assistive electronic devices close by in case of emergency. Keep in mind that storing things close by is not giving into the disease and letting it win, it is a way of empowering yourself to get the job done, and making sure that you are able to. Another tip is to not cram your daily schedule into a few short hours. Many patients with MS squish plans into a limited amount of time thinking they will not be able to go all day. Balance and rest is key to keep your body up to date and healthy. If you are going constantly, make sure to take a break and let your body catch up. As well since MS is on your mind constantly, make sure to keep up with other aspects of your health so that ou can be the best version of yourself. Most importantly, make sure to make time for yourself. Stay in and watch a movie, read a book, do some meditating, or go out and breathe in the fresh air. People with MS are constantly stressed by many factors, and this can cause symptoms to flare. As an individual determine what makes your body stress, and make sure to find time pamper yourself, and relax. One important tip that will help brighten your future is to set goals for yourself. This is important to help yourself prepare for future days down the road, in case your MS progresses. Always keep a positive outlook on life, it is essential to a healthy life, and a better you! Don't let it beat you, show it who is boss!

Citations: 

 "Top 10 Tips for Managing Daily Life With MS." EverydayHealth.com. Everyday Health Media, 2016. Web. 23 Mar. 2016. <http://www.everydayhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis/living-with/life-with-multiple-sclerosis/#10>.

"Self-Management in Multiple Sclerosis." Self-Management in Multiple Sclerosis. Web. 23 Mar. 2016. <http://msrrtc.washington.edu/info/sm>.