Just Diagnosed

Hi .Sinclaire. A new diagnosis can be overwhelming. Please know we are here for you whenever you need support or a place to vent. I am glad that your family is so supportive and eager to learn more about MS. That is so important. The best way to prepare for a relapse is to learn everything you can about the symptoms of MS, your own triggers and the treatments. MS presents differently in everyone so no two relapses will be the same. You might consider keeping a journal so you can tell more easily when symptoms worsen and so that you can look back on it and learn from it. Here is an article from one of our advocates about identifying and treating relapses: https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/relapse-signs. I thought you might find it interesting, especially the comments section. Here is another article with some advice for people who are newly diagnosed. https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/advice-for-newly-diagnosed. Always try to remember that no two journeys with MS are the same. Some people go through life barely giving it a thought because it doesn't affect them much. Others think about it every second of every day because of the challenges it presents. No one can tell you what your own journey will be like, not even your doctor. Sending lots and lots and lots of gentle hugs your way. Please let me know if there is specific information you are looking for and I will help you find it. - Lori (Team Member)

Hello Lori, Thank you so much for the information! I don't have specific questions because everything is new right now so it is hard to even think. I haven't had an attack yet but I would like to know if I can even prepare for one. I haven't been able to find a group for young people with MS yet which would be nice. I will definitely buy a journal thanks for the advice!

Remember that you have MS & that MS doesn't have you. You are in charge not MS. Keep a positive attitude, it helps during the rough days. Everyone's MS is as differnt as you are from other people, although there may be similarities. Continue to research, read, listen to videos, attend seminars as much as you can. Knowledge is power. The more you know the better you will be equipped to handle a new situation as it arrises. You should be able to talk to your neurologist frankly and ask as many questions you need too. If and when you have a flair up make sure you call your neurologist and report it to them.
There are a lot of Disease Modifying Therapies (DMT) for MS. Research/study them so you can talk to your neurologist about which one will be best for you. You may have to try a couple of differnt ones before you find one that works for you. I am on my 4th one in 16 years.
It's important to not be afraid of MS, it has no control over you, it just agrivates you & makes you have to do things a little differently than you are used too. Be aware of how your body & cognitive functions are behaving, especially after starting a DMT, give it some time to work as it may take a month or more before you notice any changes and how well you are tolerating the drug. It's good to journal daily so you can watch for any progression that may occur.
Write down questions for your neurologist because you may forget them by the time your appointment comes, which is not uncommon for people with MS.
The most important thing to remember is to try to stay stess free as much as possible. Stress will agitate MS as it will any disease. Relax and stop to smell the roses!

My motto is "Everyday is a new adventure, you never know what's going to happen."