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DISEASE MODIFYING THERAPIES (DMT)
These are treatments that are usually given as a pill, injection or infusion, and can mediate the symptoms of MS and even alter disease progression. They do not cure MS but may help people gain control over the extent of their relapses. The most common treatment for MS are Interferon beta medications. They work by being injected beneath the skin into the muscle, disturbing the attack of the disease on the body. This reduces inflammation and promotes nerve production (Definition of MS, 2022).
Click on the link above to see a detailed description including all of the various Disease Modifying Therapies available from your healthcare provider.
OTHER TREATMENTS TO MANAGE MS ATTACKS.
CORTICOSTEROIDS ; These are steroids that can be given intravenously or orally. Drugs such as prednisone and methylprednisolone reduce inflammation of the nerves.
PLASMA EXCHANGE: This is a process that involves the plasma (the liquid element of blood) being removed. The remaining blood cells are then mixed with albumin (a protein solution) before being returned to the patients body. This is usually a treatment that is used if patients do not respond to steroids (Ziemssen, T. et al. 2023).
SIDE EFFECTS
INSOMMNIA
INCREASED BLOOD PRESSURE
HIGHER GLUCOSE LEVELS
MOOD CHANGES
FLUID RETENTION.
Below you can explore the new and developing research on stem cell and myelin repair treatments. In a similar way to Chemotherapy, stem cell treatments can be used to replenish your immune system by removing damaged cells. This can promote disease remission and reduce the extent of relapses. Many of these groundbreaking treatments are fairly new, but so far the research has shown a reduction in levels of disability, and a reduction of disease exacerbations. Due to the infancy of the studies done so far, it is unclear whether this effect is long-term (Figueroa, F, et al 2012).
TREATMENT & SIDE EFFECTS
Due to the wide range of treatments available, it is important to speak to your health care practitioner to find one that is right for you. Some of the disease modifying therapies are accompanied by side effects. If this is having a negative impact upon your quality of life you may not wish to wait until your next appointment to discuss this with your GP. Instead you can explore your options by booking an appointment ahead of your scheduled review (NHS England, 2022).
ACCESS TO TREATMENT
Many of the physical and mental health problems associated with MS, such as painful exacerbations, anxiety and depression may make accessing adequate treatment more difficult. Your symptoms, type of MS, relapses and disease progression will differ from other individuals. For example, you may have certain environmental barriers such as a lack of caregiver availability and support. Or your condition may have caused financial problems which may limit your ability to travel and attend follow up appointments, particularity where you may not have social support from others.
Many patients report how these experience's lead to feelings of frustration and hopelessness. This may worsen existing mental health problems, therefore, it is important to speak to your GP about any problems you are having with attaining treatments and if necessary be referred to therapist who has suitable insight into MS and its individual variations (Mayo, C.D, et al. 2023).
If you are struggling financially as a result of your diagnosis there is help available. Not all treatments are accessible through the NHS. Your clinical circumstances may mean you will be able to apply for an Individual funding request (IFR). If you would like more information about the grants and financial help available you can contact the MS Society benefits helpline on 0808 800 8000 or you can get in touch via email: msbenefitsadvice@dis.org.uk (Definition of MS, 2022). Alternatively click on the link below to find out what other financial support you may be entitled to.
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