Multiple Sclerosis?

[Bader A]

My girlfriend has Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and I don't know how to deal with her.She is driving me crazy.I ment by "she is driving me crazy" that I'm ALWAYS worried about her.Thanks guys , I really apreciate your help

[nikkmak]

Do some research on it and learn what she's going through so you can better understand her reactions (mood swings and depression probably). People with the disease deal with a lot of chronic depression as well as fatigue and constant pain, not to mention the medications that come packaged with great side effects. I wouldn't be the happiest camper if I had to put up with that on a daily basis. Here's a good one for starters, then go ask google.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multiple_sclerosis

[Jamie L]

I know this might be a cold thing to say-but MS is a life long agonizing battle--if you're having trouble dealing with her now you should let her go...both for your sake and hers...it is a very hard battle you have to deal with all your life-there are experimental drugs, but it is an uphill battle always...think long and hard about this...good luck..

[kiikart]

If you are in a long-term relationship, I suggest you seek counseling. MS is a very severe, debilitating illness. Sure, the prognosis differs from person to person, but it is sobering all the same.Regardless, even if this person is your close friend or a person who you care about, learn more here:http://www.nationalmssociety.org/site/PageServer?pagename=hom_gen_homepagehttp://www.mayoclinic.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/DS00188http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/multiplesclerosis.htmlI don't know in what way she is "driving you crazy," but she suffers from a nervous system disease.

[the bird]

B, you really didn't give enough info to let us know what the problem is. Do research MS through National Multiple Sclerosis Society and Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.Is she having mood swings? May need medsNewly dxed? She NEEDS your undying support - physically and emotionallyI agree you both should seek counseling if this is long term.And both of you should join a local support group - lots of help for you both there!If it is time for you to move on, do so gracefully for her sake. Please don't stay if you know in your heart you shouldn't. Her needs are and will be big. I know. I have MS. Be easy on yourself, it's not for everyone to be a caregiver and a mate.Peace.

[Mrs. Inquisitive]

I was diagnosed with MS a year and a half ago, so I may have some expertise here! If you are worried sick about her, means you obviously care about her, but try to relax a little and give her independence all the while being there if she needs you. Best advice for dealing with her is listen to what she has to say, she may be scared, mad, depressed, confused... BUT keep in mind that these crazy emotions will calm down and she will get back to normal! Also, you can't worry about her SO much that it unravels your nerves... none of us are guaranteed a healthy tomorrow, not even you. And from someone who has MS, TRUST me when I say that it is equally annoying to have everyone jumping up every time you sneeze... for me, I am like "I'm cool dude, leave me alone!"I don't know how new her diagnosis is, but it takes time to accept the emotional part of this disease. When I was first diagnosed, I was in denial, mad, confused, depressed thinking that I would never be able to have my 'normal' life back and that I was always going to be tired and in pain. Has she started any meds for this (usually shots)? I would definately say that the emotional part will be a roller coaster for the first year. Things will 'norm' out as she gets a feel for what her new limitations will be.For me, a year and a half later, I have been exercising (in A/C locations to avoid the over heating) taking multi-vitamins (have her consult her neurologist before going too gung-ho on any alternative medications, as too many vitamins can have adverse effects) EAT healthy and sleep when she is tired!!! I have been doing these things and I have not only lost 25lbs, but feel better than ever! Save my profile and please feel free to send me a private message or give my info to your GF as I love to help others in the understanding of what MS is, what it does, and how to not let it slow you down!!!Take care of your girl!

[ms_gkygrl]

Hi there:I am a woman who is also an MS'er that was diagnosed in 2002. Because of the disease, I am now retired. As an IT person who LOVED her job and career -- the adaptation was tough. Now I love retirement. It allows me to enjoy life differently. Not at first though .... I am only 41. The gist is, MS can be relentless -- but it does not have to win. If you are a lifer with this girl, you need to take the time to learn what being a companion and a caregiver is all about. There are support groups available for the both of you no matter what stage you are in. If you care about each other for the long term - take the time to learn. If not, be honest with each other.You need to do the best you can to understand where she is coming from emotionally and take care of yourself in the meantime. Support her, but make sure you are supported too. Depression and anxiety are extremely common in MS and there are medications to take care of this. As a person who never struggled with either of these, the disease kind of wore away my defenses and I had to seek more help through medication. There is no crime in this, it is not a sign of weakness ... it's just another tool to help adapt to the surprises and changes that MS can bring. I have created a resource on Squidoo which I think could help you and your girlfriend.Sending a prayer.

www.squidoo.com (http://www.squidoo.com/ms_friends)