Being told you have MS can bring about a myriad of emotions. Fear. Anger. Grief. Despair.
And the many myths and misunderstandings about MS don’t help.
But if you think your MS diagnosis will prevent you from having a meaningful future, we’re here to tell you: that’s not true.
While there’s no cure yet, you can reduce the impact and symptoms of MS with a wide range of treatments and services.
At MS Plus, we provide support, information and resources to help you live well with MS. We can help you learn how to manage the symptoms and be a part of a community committed to making things easier. One day at a time.
You and your family will likely have many questions about MS: How it may affect your lifestyle. How it can be treated. And how you can get the support you need right now.
We’re here to help you with these questions – and more.
People living with MS can experience a range of symptoms that may change day-to-day. There will be good and bad days, but it’s important to know:
You can play a key role in making decisions about your treatment and support needs. And take control of your own health and wellbeing.
By treating and managing your symptoms, you can still actively participate in your community and workplace.
Read more about common symptoms and how to manage them.
You may have many questions about the impact of pregnancy. If you’re considering parenthood, you may be wondering if you could still get pregnant. The answer is yes, you can.
People with MS generally don’t need special care during pregnancy and childbirth. And there’s no evidence that people with MS face higher risk of complications during pregnancy.
There may be some challenges to being pregnant and having MS, especially around the MS treatments. But with the right healthcare team, resources and support, you can safely grow your family.
The key goal in managing MS is to keep your brain and spine healthy through reducing damage, minimising relapses, restoring function and reducing the impact of symptoms on your day-to-day life.
One way to achieve brain health is through disease modifying medications or treatments.
Many therapies are available in Australia – and your neurologist and MS nurse can help you decide what’s right for you.
It’s also important to know as much as you can about your treatment options, so you can make an informed decision with your neurologist.
You can keep your brain healthy by making positive lifestyle changes. These include:
While research continues into the causes of multiple sclerosis (MS), health professionals have a range of tests to achieve an accurate diagnosis.
People with multiple sclerosis (MS) can experience a wide range of physical symptoms, from visual disturbances and heat sensitivity through to changes in sensation. Knowing what symptoms to look for can help you find answers and gain more control over your diagnosis.
This page has been reviewed and approved by Executive Manager Client Engagement and Wellbeing Jodi Haartsen. Jodi is a registered MS Nurse who has helped thousands of patients over her 20 years’ experience at Eastern Health MS service in Australia, in several roles including nurse educator, research nurse and nurse practitioner. Jodi is the 2022 winner of the global MS Brain Health Leader Award in the Independent Healthcare Professionals category.
We offer a wide range of services and support to help you manage your health and wellbeing – so you can maintain your lifestyle and achieve your goals.
Wellbeing is more than just physical health. It’s a combination of your body, mind, relationships, and other aspects of your life. If you’re living with a neurological condition, here are some ways you can take care of your wellbeing.
Find everything you need to know about living with MS – from managing symptoms and your emotional health to navigating employment and the NDIS.
