Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS). As the disease progresses, myelin---a nerve-insulating material---is destroyed. This damages the nerve pathways, causing a host of different neurological symptoms, including muscle weakness, vision and speech disturbances and fatigue. SPMS is one of the four forms of the disease. Unlike Relapsing/Remitting Multiple Sclerosis, which allows the sufferer to at least partially recover between relapses, Secondary Progressive leads to a gradual worsening of the condition, with little to no recovery.
Multiple Sclerosis, no matter the form, can be very difficult to treat, and not all treatments work for all patients. While there is no cure for SPMS, there are certain things you can do to help halt or slow down the progression of the disease.
Instructions
1. Keep a daily journal of your symptoms. Make note of the most bothersome symptoms and meet with your doctor to discuss manage these. A substantial number of medications can treat a wide range of MS ailments and issues, so don't assume you can't do anything about a symptom that is interfering with your life.
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle---which, while this applies to everyone, is especially important for those suffering from SPMS. Exercise regularly, eat a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients and try to get at least seven to eight hours of restful sleep a night. If mobility issues are preventing you from exercising, talk to your doctor about options that will allow you to be active despite your state.
3. Talk to your doctor about the different medications available for your condition. If inflammation is still present and you are experiencing rapid deterioration or continuing relapses, or your MRI indicates an increase in lesions or abnormalities, it's important to discuss treatment that will help to slow down the disease. According to a study published in the 2004 issue of Neurology, patients taking interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) experienced a reduction in the number of lesions and abnormalities within the brain tissue (see Reference 2). The drugs mitoxantrone (Novantrone) and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) may also be effective in treating more severe forms of the disease.
4. Maintain a positive attitude. This can be difficult, especially if you're suffering from the Secondary Progressive form of MS. If you are suffering from depression or anxiety as a result of your condition, talk to your doctor about getting therapy to deal with the psychological aspects of your illness.
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