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Fighting MS and Depression During COVID-19

Daryl H. Bryant — Wed, 02 Dec 2020 11:41:03 EST

In the midst of a global pandemic, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Uncertainty, isolation, and the daily onslaught of bad news can wreak havoc on our emotional wellbeing. In a recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll, nearly half of respondents said that they felt the pandemic was harmful to their mental health. When you struggle with MS it can be hard to maintain a positive outlook as it is, so a global pandemic certainly doesn’t help. Know that you are not alone, MS warrior!

The strategies we’re going to cover in this post are meant to help you cope with MS by battling negative thoughts and improving your mood. By incorporating these tips into your life, you can help fight depression and boost positivity during this difficult time.

Here are 10 tips on fighting depression during

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4 Mindfulness Techniques that Melt Stress & Reduce MS Symptoms

Daryl H. Bryant — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 12:08:11 EST

Studies suggest that 85% of MS symptoms are related to day-to-day stressors. One of the easiest ways to reduce your symptoms is to reduce the stress in your life.

While you might not be able to remove all of the things that build tension in your life, you can reduce stress by changing how you feel about them. A change of perspective is often enough to make your body release less stress hormones and increase the “feel good” ones.

Before we get started, I would like to walk you through what stress is and how it impacts your body so that you can better understand how mediation will work for you.

Stress Hormones

There is a cocktail of hormones that our bodies release when we are feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed. Cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline are all responsible for our fight or flight responses. You can read the full store at MS Living Sympton Free - Daryl H. Bryant 4 Mindfulness Techniques that Melt Stress & Reduce MS Symptoms

8 Ways to Reduce MS Flare-Ups While Working Remotely

Daryl H. Bryant — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 14:54:38 EST

Nothing about 2020 has been predictable. COVID-19 changed the world in unforeseen ways and caused the majority of the professional world to move from an office setting to working remotely from home. As we navigate through the new normal of working from home, it’s critical for those with MS to understand how to manage flare-ups that may arise.

Anyone with Multiple Sclerosis knows how crippling flare-ups can be, with symptoms that range from numbness and fatigue to depression and difficulty walking. The first step to dealing with flare-ups is understanding your triggers and making an effort to avoid them. Managing MS symptoms and reducing the severity of flare-ups can be extremely difficult, but with an optimistic mind and the determination to take back your life, you can face flare-ups head on and overcome them.

Here are eight of the best ways to handle MS

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The Ultimate Guide to Getting Better Sleep with MS

Daryl H. Bryant — Mon, 13 Jul 2020 17:11:14 EST

Getting adequate sleep when you have MS is vitally important. Not only does sleep catalyze your performance but it allows you to withstand MS symptoms capably. Regardless of the stresses in your life, it’s critical to get restful sleep on consistently.

Here are five effective strategies that will help you get better sleep each night.

Create a Sleep Schedule

Programming your body to sleep and wake at consistent times helps prevent disruptions during sleep. To create a schedule, go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time each morning. The temptation of sleeping in on the weekends is hard to resist, but maintaining the same sleep schedule will allow you to get sufficient sleep that your body needs. With time and discipline, your body will learn to adapt to this routine.

Limit Caff

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5 Tips to Reduce MS Symptoms in Children

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 14:21:47 EST

Living with multiple sclerosis as a child can be incredibly challenging. However, there are several ways to reduce and manage a child’s MS symptoms. There is no need for little ones to live in pain thanks to these pain mitigation methods that have been found to effectively reduce the symptoms of MS in children.
Here are five ways you can reduce MS symptoms in children.
Incorporate Anti-inflammatory Foods and Supplements
Anti-inflammatory foods and supplements will reduce the inflammation within the body, which can provide a welcome relief to the immense pain children may feel sometimes. Common foods that people living with MS swear by are wild sockeye salmon and turmeric powder. Salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory compounds. Integrating both of these foods into a child&rsqu
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Four Ways Tech is Helping in the Fight Against MS

Daryl H. Bryant — Mon, 18 May 2020 14:18:13 EST

Anyone who has been diagnosed with MS knows this condition can turn your world upside down. While it’s a relief to know the culprit behind your symptoms, the diagnosis itself brings lifestyle changes, endless medical appointments and tests, dietary adjustments, therapies, and more. Trying to maintain these new adjustments while also managing your symptoms can be overwhelmingly challenging even before the fatigue and brain fog!
When diagnosed 20 years ago, the internet was still relatively new. Most of my research involved printed materials, and my notes and appointments kept on paper. While there’s nothing wrong with “writing it down”, it can be difficult to keep track of everything in a notebook.
Thankfully, technology has made advancements in the past 20 years. Not only is tech helping us to stay connected, it’s helping those of us with chronic conditions manage our health, our symptom
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Can Treating Allergies Help Manage MS Symptoms?

Daryl H. Bryant — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 10:24:41 EST

Does spring pollen have you sneezing and sniffling? If so, you’re not alone. Seasonal allergies can cause more than the occasional runny nose and red eyes. Allergy sufferers can run low-grade fevers, battle body aches, and fight extreme fatigue.
When multiple sclerosis is added to the mix, both MS and seasonal allergy symptoms can be exacerbated. It can be frustrating and exhausting to deal with a double whammy of health challenges as the seasons change.
The good news is that there are many ways to manage seasonal allergies and MS that go hand in hand. Here are several strategies that can help you curb the sniffles and manage other symptoms year-round.
Eat an Allergy-Friendly Diet
Hippocrates famously said, “Let thy food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” While medication can be a necessary and helpful component of symptom management, our overall health is aff
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Tips for Managing MS During a Pandemic

Daryl H. Bryant — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 12:26:47 EST

Living with multiple sclerosis can be a challenge even in the best of circumstances. However, when a national health crisis, such as coronavirus COVID-19, arises, managing MS can become even more challenging. Those with compromised immune systems are often at a higher risk, yet must weigh that risk against the resources they need to stay well.
Sheltering-in-place doesn’t mean you have to hide under the covers until this situation resolves. Here are nine tips to help you manage MS and take control of your health as we navigate the coronavirus pandemic.
Be Informed, Not Inundated
It’s easy to get caught up in the 24/7 news cycle, so set specific times throughout the day to check for coronavirus updates. Limiting the amount of time you spend reading about it or watching the news will help you avoid the panic that comes with sensationalized reports amidst this global pandemic.<
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Are You At Risk for MS? Seven Factors You Need to Know

Daryl H. Bryant — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 15:52:57 EST

Nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with Multiple Sclerosis today. There could be more, but many people may not yet know that their symptoms are actually MS. Research shows that people can start showing signs of MS years before they are formally diagnosed. Actress Selma Blair said receiving her diagnosis was a relief; she’d been battling symptoms for more than a decade before doctors finally identified her condition.
Multiple Sclerosis can be tricky to diagnose because it affects each person differently. Symptoms can mimic other autoimmune conditions such as lupus, fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue syndrome. Some people live with mi
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MS Awareness Month: Celebrating How Far We've Come

Daryl H. Bryant — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 11:39:20 EST

What do orange and butterflies have to do with Multiple Sclerosis? More than you may realize!
March is National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. During this time, you’re likely to see orange ribbons - the official color of MS awareness. You may also see butterfly symbols, which represent the butterfly shape that shows up on many MS patients’ MRIs.
While no one wants to receive a MS diagnosis, the truth is that nearly one million of us are living with this condition. Each of us is affected differently, from physical symptoms to cognitive challenges to flares and relapses. Some days are harder than others.
However, there is hope! Here are four positive facts about MS. Let’s look on the bright side and celebrate how far we’ve come since MS was first identified over 150 years ago.
Awareness Is At
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Early Treatment Options for MS

Daryl H. Bryant — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 09:40:18 EST

Receiving a medical diagnosis is the first step in managing a new way of living. When someone is diagnosed with MS, finally putting a name to the brain fog, fatigue, and nerve pain they’ve experienced can be a relief.
Unfortunately, relief can often turn to frustration when you’re faced with treatment options. It seems everyone has an opinion, and it can be challenging to navigate the best options for your early-stage symptoms.
I understand what it’s like to face the daunting task of researching your diagnosis. Since my own MS diagnosis, I’ve discovered that treatment options generally fall into four categories. By understanding what these four categories are and how they work - both independently and with one another - you can make a more informed decision when discussing treatment options with your medical professional.&
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MS & Cognitive Health

Daryl H. Bryant — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 08:29:21 EST

Of all the symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, cognitive challenges may be among the most frustrating. MS can mean more than a little brain fog. Symptoms can include challenges processing information or concentrating, memory issues, changes in visual perception, and even trouble finding the right word.
You deserve to be at your personal best every day. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to boost your brain function. Here are five tips for improving your mental abilities.
Eat for Mental Health
Diet plays an essential role in both physical and mental health, and getting the right nutrients can boost brain health. Eat healthy fats such as tuna and salmon, and include plenty
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Symptoms of MS in Men

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 08:38:28 EST

Multiple Sclerosis is often (mistakenly) considered a condition that affects women. While it is true that women are three times more likely to be diagnosed with MS, men who are diagnosed tend to have more severe symptoms.
It can be frustrating for men to navigate health symptoms and challenges, especially when it is difficult to find information about their condition. Everyone deserves to have access to the information they need to mitigate symptoms and live their best life.
While living with MS can be challenging, it helps to understand the symptoms so that you can develop a treatment plan. Here are five symptoms of MS that typically affect men.
Speech Problems
Multiple Sclerosis can damage nerves in the brain, causing a variety of speech problems. You may have problems with specific words, or your speech p
You can read the full store at MS Living Sympton Free - Daryl H. Bryant Symptoms of MS in Men

How to Avoid MS Flares in Winter

Daryl H. Bryant — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:25:27 EST

As autumn leaves give way to snow and ice, many people look forward to the beauty of a winter wonderland. But for those with MS, colder weather can trigger flares and make winter weather a frustrating foe.
We know how disheartening it can be to see others enjoying the outdoors while you struggle to stay warm, avoid muscle spasms, or simply find the energy to go outside. No one should have to spend their winters inside piled under blankets.
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to avoid a flare and alleviate MS symptoms in winter. Read on for simple strategies to make winter weather more bearable.
Move Your Body
When you’re cold, moving your body may be the last thing you want to do. However, moderate exercise can alleviate symptoms and warm you up by boosting circulation. Yoga or light stretching can relieve stiffness and stave off muscle spasms. If you have ac
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Five Fall Foods For MS Symptom Relief

Daryl H. Bryant — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 08:54:27 EST

Fall means cooler weather, cozy blankets, and a fresh array of hearty fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately, for some, fall also means a return of MS symptoms. Temperature changes, less sunlight, and new routines can all contribute to a flare-up.
While you can’t control the weather, you can take advantage of fall’s fresh bounty to help stave off brain fog, joint pain, and fatigue. Here are five popular fall foods that may alleviate your MS symptoms.
Turkey
Healthy fats are shown to boost brain function and benefit people with MS - when consumed in moderation. For this reason, leaner cuts of meat such as chicken and turkey are a better option. Turkey is also high in protein and vitamin B, which is a key nutrient for those seeking symptom relief.
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Simple Life Hacks to Alleviate MS Symptoms

Daryl H. Bryant — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 08:47:14 EST

Living with Multiple Sclerosis can be challenging. The fatigue, brain fog, balance issues, and other symptoms can zap your energy, leaving little leftover for daily living duties.
Everyone deserves to put their best foot forward every day. Fortunately, thanks to technology and some good old-fashioned ingenuity, there are many ways to conserve your energy when taking on everyday tasks. Here are three life hacks that can help alleviate MS symptoms and save your energy for something fun.
Boost Your Brain
Multiple Sclerosis affects cognitive abilities. Common mental symptoms include brain fog, depression, and memory issues. It can even affect one’s ability to stay organized.
One simple way to address this is to play brain games. Whether it’s a brain training app, guided meditation, or a book filled with crossword pu
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How to Support Someone Newly-diagnosed with MS

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 14:27:32 EST

Receiving a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis can bring lifestyle changes, uncertainty, and many new emotions. These experiences affect not only the person who is diagnosed but their friends and family members as well. If your loved one was recently diagnosed, you may be wondering how to help. Here are
Research
Most people with MS are happy to answer a few questions about their condition and how it uniquely affects them. However, answering the same inquiries over and over can be exhausting. You can help by doing your own research about MS. Learn the signs, symptoms, and treatment options so you know what to expect. This will also help you ask better questions about your loved one’s health goals, symptoms, and daily living needs.
If you choose to share any rese
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How MS Affects Women

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 10:20:45 EST

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affects each individual differently. Because it affects the nervous system, one person may need significant support to manage daily living skills, while others may live with minimal flares. People can be diagnosed with MS at any age, but the condition seems to most commonly affect women between the ages of 35 - 54.
The most common signs of multiple sclerosis in adults include fatigue, balance and vision issues, numbness and tingling, and brain fog. However, there are several issues that are specific to women. Here are four ways MS may affect women differently.
Misdiagnosis
Although women are proportionately more likely to be affected by MS, it’s also more difficult for women to receive a proper diagnosis. On avera
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Coping with Chronic Illness: 3 Tips for a Positive Life

Daryl H. Bryant — Wed, 17 Jul 2019 08:45:49 EST

There’s a strong link between mental health and chronic disease; that’s why positive thinking during illness is so important. These 3 tips for a positive life will help as you are coping with chronic illness.
Surround Yourself With A Solid Support Network
One of the most critical elements of staying positive after an MS diagnosis and while coping with chronic illness is having supportive people around you. Whether it’s family, friends, coworkers, or new people you’ve met through support groups, it’s imperative that you find supportive people who will help you stay positive when things get hard. You need these people so you have someone to talk to when you need a sounding board and to help when you really need a hand.
Take Time For Your
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Managing MS Symptoms in Summer

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:13:23 EST

There is nothing quite like the sounds of summer - birds chirping, kids playing, pool parties, backyard barbecues, and block parties that last well into the evening. But with those joyful sounds comes the oppressive summer heat. For those with multiple sclerosis, summer temps can trigger heat-related symptoms such as:
Fatigue
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Tremors
Weakness
Cognitive Challenges
Fortunately, with a little planning, you can keep your cool and manage symptoms e
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To Sip or Not to Sip: Alcohol and MS

Daryl H. Bryant — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 08:35:17 EST

Being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis means making important diet and lifestyle changes. But does that mean you should avoid alcohol altogether?
The Science Isn’t Settled
As the old saying goes, “You are what you eat.” This applies to what you drink, too. Research has shown that people with MS fare better when they avoid certain foods. And it’s well known that moderate amounts of alcohol can boost heart health.
However, the verdict is still out when it comes to alcohol and MS. Some people claim they are better able to manage symptoms with a glass or two of wine. However, alcohol can also affect cognitive abilities, balance, and sleep - all of which can be affected by MS. Research shows that moderate consumption may help To Sip or Not to Sip: Alcohol and MS

Five Steps You can take Now to Manage MS Long Term

Daryl H. Bryant — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 11:11:49 EST

Living with Multiple Sclerosis can seem overwhelming- especially in the beginning of a diagnosis. However, there is more to MS than just therapies and medications. There are many actions and lifestyle changes you can make at home to help live a symptom-free live. Here are five lifestyle changes you can start today that will help you better manage MS long-term.
Eat For Health
Hippocrates is credited with saying “Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food.” Research has found that what you eat does impact how you feel. Many people with MS find that they feel better on a diet that focuses on anti-inflammatory foods. It’s also important to find quality supplements that can help m
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MS vs. ALS: Whats the Difference?

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 11 Apr 2019 12:02:57 EST

Learning you have an autoimmune disease can be scary. Autoimmune conditions that affect the nervous system can be confusing due to similar symptoms.
Many people confuse Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Both diseases affect the same area of the body (brain and spinal cord), which is why both have the word “sclerosis” in the name. Both conditions also affect motor skills and brain function - people affected with MS or ALS often have similar early symptoms such as difficulty walking, impaired cognition, slurred speech, and even depression. Last, neither disease currently has a cure.
These conditions are unique and provide vastly different outcomes for a person facing a diagnosis. Here are four ways MS and ALS differ.
Definition
Both MS and ALS have the word &ldquo
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Signs and Symptoms of MS in Adults

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 14:52:40 EST

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition that affects your nerves. Each individual is affected differently by MS; some people live with minimal flares, while others struggle with daily living tasks. The condition can affect people of all ages, but the most common diagnosis is women between the ages of 35 - 54.
The list of symptoms that accompanies MS is long. Symptoms can vary, or even disappear and then reappear during an MS flare. Although each person experiences MS differently, there are symptoms that are common among those battling the disease. Here are four signs of MS that frequently occur in adults.
Fatigue
Fatigue is more than just feeling a little sleepy. Adults with MS can ex
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6 Triggers That Can Cause an MS Relapse

Daryl H. Bryant — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 14:34:14 EST

You may not be able to avoid MS relapse entirely, but being aware of MS relapse triggers can help you make healthy choices. Learn what causes MS relapse, how to identify MS relapse triggers, and how long an MS relapse can last.
What Causes MS Relapse?
The truth is that scientists aren’t 100% sure what exactly causes MS relapse, also known as MS flare-ups, but those of us who live with MS know that a sudden relapse can stop us in our tracks. Some MS relapses occur seemingly out of nowhere, with little sign or warning that they are coming on. Still, there are a handful of common MS relapse triggers that have been identified.
MS Relapse Triggers
There are 6 major triggers for MS relapse. Most of the recognized MS relapse triggers are unhealthy habits such as not getting enough sleep or smoking. Eating unhealthy inflammation-causing foods, overdoing physical
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