Betty's MS Story

By bettyjmendoza

1 min read

I have had double vision since coming down with MS in 1962, and my vision has very much, become blurry.

Also, I would like to mention how important daily walking and exercise is, and helps a great deal.

The worse thing is the incontinence I experience. Especially in the last 2 or 2 and a half years, both Urinary, and fecal, but I am assuming this could be because of my age.(76), and I am having a lot of breaking out all over, like little pimple holes that hurt very badly and take a long time to heal, like weeks or longer. And sometimes my skin just hurts, and this is more frequent.

I have swelling in the lower limbs, and it is steadily getting worse. I would really like to talk with a counselor or someone, if possible. Depression seems to be getting worse, most days, and I cry a few times a day. I need some tips on how to deal with all of it.

Thank you. BettyJ

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multiplesclerosis-net Member
Hi Betty, Thanks so much for joining our community and sharing your story. You’ll hear from our moderators (or other community members soon), but we wanted to mention that the National MS Society has a volunteer network of MS patients available 24/7 if you feel you need to talk to someone. The MSFriends helpline can be reached at: 1-866-673-7436
Lisa Emrich Moderator & Contributor
Hi Betty, I am a bit in awe that you have been living with MS for 2/3 of your life and that you are walking every day for exercise. Good for you! I haven't experienced some of the symptoms you mention, but I have dealt with depression for decades. I feel strongly that anti-depressants are very helpful. Sometimes when one medication stops working as well, a different one may help. I've switched anti-depressants and even combined them at different times during the past 20 years. Also, talking with people can be very helpful. Does your neurologist have any recommendations for a counselor or experienced patient in your area to talk to? The MSFriends hotline is excellent. I'm sorry that I don't know what to do about fecal incontinence. Would a regular cathing schedule help with the urinary incontinence? I'm not sure. I know that if the thought of needing to go to the bathroom crosses my mind, then I should be ready to head to the toilet to avoid any accidents. However, they can still happen. I hope that others will stop by and give their own tips. I'm really glad that you reached out. I know what it's like to be in a place where crying each day becomes all too frequent. It can be dark and lonely. Keep reaching for the light and it will come to you (often with a little help from treatment). Big hugs, Lisa
Cathy Chester Moderator & Contributor
Betty, I am sorry you are experiencing these MS symptoms. You have lived with MS for so long, so I consider you a true MS warrior and hero. Your fighting spirit comes through your writing. As far as MSFriends, I used to volunteer for them. They are a marvelous group of dedicated and trained MS volunteers who are available to speak to you 24/7. I know someone else gave you their phone number, but you can also read about them on The National MS Society's website (<a href='https://www.nmss.org' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>www.nmss.org</a>). Give it a try! Speaking to someone else who understands your issues can help you feel better and perhaps take an edge off of your depression. As far as the swelling, I've never had that myself, but I know that some people experience swelling due to side effects from their medications, including steroids. Speak to your MS doctor about it, and make sure it's not being caused by a non-MS issue. Here is an article from The National MS Society about bladder dysfunction that I thought you may be interested in: <a href='https://www.nationalmssociety.org/about-multiple-sclerosis/what-we-know-about-ms/symptoms/bladder-dysfunction/index.aspx' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>http://www.nationalmssociety.org/about-multiple-sclerosis/what-we-know-about-ms/symptoms/bladder-dysfunction/index.aspx</a> As far as depression, I recommend (from personal experience!) making an appointment with a qualified therapist to talk with and, perhaps, get some prescribed medication. The combination of these two things has made my world a better place to live in. If you don't know of a therapist near you, consult with The National MS Society's website for more information. MS is such an unpredictable disease that we all have good days and bad. As long as the good ones outweigh the bad ones then we're AOK! You have the MS community, and especially those of us at <a href='https://multiplesclerosis.net' target='_blank'>MultipleSclerosis.net</a>, banding around you in your fight against MS. We are here for you. You are never alone. Please keep us posted on how you are doing. Best, Cathy
Laura Kolaczkowski Moderator & Contributor
Hi, Betty. Living with MS for over 50 years is a testament to your attitude and willingness to keep working at what is important, such as exercise. I hear your concerns about deciphering is it MS or is it age - please don't second guess yourself and see your doctor. The pimple-like pores are concerning, especially since they are taking a long time to heal. Have you had your sugar levels checked recently? That is one condition that can cause slow healing. Depression is pretty common because of MS but is also a regular visitor with chronic disease and also with aging. Be sure to talk to your doctor about this while you are getting those sores looked at. The NMSS has lines you can call and speak to MS Advisors who can direct you to the services you might benefit from. Please take advantage of those resources. I'm glad you found us here - I hope to see you again. ~Laura
laurelwells Member
Betty, my problems are mainly on my right side. My right ankle and foot swell and change color. My internal specialist, not Neuro, explained that muscles, lymph valves weak. She gave me mild diuretic for about twice a week. Wear compression sock. Put foot up whenever possible. Hope this helps. Laurel