When it comes to multiple sclerosis (MS), there are still a lot of misconceptions surrounding the disease, but not everything you’ve read or been told about MS is correct. Here, we separate fact from fiction by dispelling five of the most common myths about MS.
Myth #1: Women with MS cannot get pregnant.
Sure, women with MS may face certain risks and complications while being pregnant, but according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, pregnancy has been proven to reduce the number of MS relapses and flare-ups, especially during the second and third trimesters.
Myth #2: All people with MS need a wheelchair.
Not true at all.
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Many people with MS live active and mobile lives. In fact, most MS patients – two-thirds to be exact – remain able to walk on their own without needing any type of assistance (cane, walker, scooter, etc.), according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Myth #3 People with MS shouldn’t exercise.
Nonsense! MS patients can and should exercise just like everyone else.
The only difference is that you may have to take frequent breaks throughout your workout session to avoid feeling fatigued.
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Myth #4: MS is a death sentence.
With the proper management, the majority of people with MS live full, active and enjoyable lives.
For the most part, MS is not considered fatal, and most people with MS have normal or near-normal life expectancies.
The percentage of people with severe MS who die from complications is actually quite small.
Myth #5: MS is curable.
There is no cure for MS yet, but the good news is that there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to better control your symptoms.
