Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
This entry was posted in April 22, 2024.png)
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Understanding Multiple Sclerosis
MS awareness week is an opportunity to spread awareness, take action, and gather a better understanding including what symptoms to look out for to how to help manage Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
MS has such a wide variety of different symptoms, but often some feel easier to talk about than others. Have you ever felt embarrassed by issues like bladder control or sexual dysfunction? Well, it’s important to know that these symptoms are normal when it comes to something like MS, and it's important to talk about.
Key Symptoms
This blog is an opportunity to learn some key symptoms when looking out for MS and a few tips on how to look after yourself and others when diagnosed. These are just a few things that may help when dealing with MS, however, if you are concerned about your symptoms then always seek a professional opinion.
Depression: Almost half of the people with MS might experience depression at some point, this symptom is often misunderstood and can be hard to recognize. However, there are always ways to work on improving how you feel.
Vertigo: Both vertigo and dizziness can occur in MS when the condition affects the brain stem and cerebellum, which are parts of the brain that play a major role in balance.
Cognitive Dysfunction: Cognitive Dysfunction is a common symptom of MS, affecting approximately 40% to 60% of a person’s time dealing with MS. This may include your memory, attention, information-processing, speed, executive functions, and visuospatial perception.
Pain: Pain from MS can be associated with stiffness and spasms in muscles. It may also include symptoms affecting the sense that is not thought of as ‘pain’ like numbness, pins and needles, or tightness in the chest.
Fatigue: Fatigue is an overwhelming feeling of tiredness and is one of the most hidden symptoms when it comes to MS. Primary Fatigue is caused by damage to both the spinal cord and brain. It’s suggested that passing messages around the nerve damage takes extra time causing fatigue. Secondary Fatigue may be caused by other symptoms such as pain and uncomfortableness.
How To Help Manage MS
Once you have been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) there are some things you can do to help manage this;
Getting Adequate Sleep: Getting adequate sleep is important to help maintain overall health and well-being. Lack of sleep can cause daytime drowsiness and make some MS symptoms feel a lot worse.
Taking Treatments: Treatments for MS may include medication, therapies such as; physiotherapy, and self-management techniques. If you think a treatment may help, then make sure you consult a professional about the right treatment for you.
Exercise Regularly: Although MS fatigue and stiffness may make you feel like exercise is the last thing you’d like to do, physical activity may help you cope with some of your symptoms.
Physical activity does not have to be intense or last for a long time. If possible, you may also incorporate activities like:
- Dancing
- Walking
- Water aerobics
- Doing household chores
- Playing with your pets
- Practicing yoga
- Practicing tai chi
A diet that is rich in fiber and low in saturated fat: A balanced diet may help your body function better meaning you can then manage your MS more effectively.
Some examples of nutrient-dense foods you may want to incorporate include:
- Garlic
- Eggs
- Kale
- Sweet potatoes
- Berries and other fresh fruits
- Salmon
These are just a few examples that could help an individual manage MS, however, each individual will find their own personal methods that work better than others.
Overall, we hope this blog has been useful to learn more about Multiple Sclerosis, however, if you are worried about yourself or a loved one then always seek professional advice. Further information can be found on the NHS website here.
Do Not Fall In The Shower!
This entry was posted in April 18, 2024
Regardless of age or physical ability, falling in the shower is a terrifying and potentially dangerous situation that can happen to anyone. Wet surfaces combined with water and bath products can create a hazardous situation that increases the risk of slipping and falling.
What are the Risks and Consequences?
The risks of falling in the shower can result in small injuries, such as cuts and bruises, or more serious injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, or even permanent disabilities. If you happen to fall in the shower, it is important to have a medical examination right away, especially if you hit your head or experience any pain or discomfort.
How to Prevent Falls in the Shower?
1- Install Grab Rails: Adding grab rails to your shower can provide extra support when entering, exiting, or moving around in the shower. Make sure they are securely installed and within reach to provide the necessary assistance.
2- Use a Non-Slip Mat or Adhesive Strips: This can help improve your movements and reduce the chance of slipping on the slippery surface. To ensure their effectiveness, make sure to regularly clean and maintain them.
3- Take Your Time: When transitioning between wet and dry areas, be extremely careful and mindful of your movements, avoiding sudden movements that could cause you to lose your balance.
4- Keep the shower area organized: Consider having a shower organiser to keep products organized and out of your way.
5- Consider Adaptive Bathing Aids: If you have mobility or balance issues, consider using adaptive bathing aids such as a shower chair or stool to sit on while showering. These aids can provide additional support and minimize the risk of falling.
By taking these simple preventive measures and being extremely careful in the shower, you can reduce the risk of falling and stay safe while bathing.
You can find more bathroom products at https://www.ableworld.co.uk/ .
Stay safe and enjoy a relaxing and worry-free shower experience.
Celebrate National Pets Day with Ableworld!
This entry was posted in April 11, 2024
Ableworld understands the happiness and companionship that pets bring into our lives. That’s why we are happy to celebrate National Pets Day today! This special day on April 11th is dedicated to admiring our scaly, feathered, and furry friends, and showcasing how important they are in our lives.
For some, pets are like a best friend or another member of the family, because they have a unique ability to bring comfort, happiness, and love into our lives. Whether you have a cuddly cat, a chirpy bird, a playful pup, or a slithery snake, pets can provide emotional support, companionship, and unconditional love. Over the years, studies have shown that having a pet brings numerous health benefits, like reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and increasing physical activity.
To celebrate National Pets Day, why not spoil your furry friend a little more with some special treats or toys? We also suggest taking them for an extra-long walk, cuddling up for a movie night, or most importantly, spending some extra quality time playing together. If you do not have a pet of your own, you can consider volunteering at a local rehoming centre or donating to a pet charity.
If you are thinking of getting a pet, remember the responsibilities that come along with PETS - Place, Exercise, Time, and Spend.
HAPPY NATIONAL PETS DAY FROM ABLEWORLD AND OUR PET FRIENDS!
