March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

What do MTV reality star Jack Osbourne, talk show host Montel Williams, comedienne Terri Garr and Fox News Channel and Business Network anchor Neil Cavuto all have in common?

They all have multiple sclerosis, a chronic, degenerative and often debilitating autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. And, they are all living and thriving despite their condition.

“Many people live well with this disease, especially if treated early,” said Karen Blitz, DO, a neurologist and director of the North Shore-LIJ Multiple Sclerosis Center. “Early treatment has the best chance of being effective and preventing disability.”

March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, a time to expand your knowledge, understanding and support of the estimated 400,000 Americans whose lives are affected by MS.

Some symptoms of MS are silent, and despite someone with the disease looking ‘well,’ they can have severe silent symptoms such as pain or fatigue, said Dr. Blitz.

“MS is not genetic, per se, although there is a small, genetic predisposition,” said Dr. Blitz. “We believe it is an autoimmune disease where the immune system is ‘acting incorrectly’ and is acting against the central nervous system causing inflammation and neurodegenration.”

If you do have MS, Dr. Blitz offers these tips to help you manage your disease:

• Exercise is good for MS and an essential ingredient in staying well.
• Disease modifying therapies work and compliance with treatments leads to better disease control.
• Your vitamin D level should be checked and may be helpful in making your immune system more tolerant.
• Communication with your doctor is important as so many symptoms of this disease, such as fatigue, mood changes, bladder issues, pain etc., can be successfully treated.
• Hydration is more important than you think. If you are well hydrated you have more energy and brain power.