How Can I Cope With Sexual Problems?
Sexual response can be affected in patients with MS, as the condition damages the central nervous system. A person’s self-esteem or mental health may be altered negatively as well, which can translate to sexual dysfunction.
In one study, 63 percent of people with MS reported that intimacy had declined since receiving their diagnosis. Another survey discovered that as many as 91 percent of men and 72 percent of women with MS might be affected by sexual problems.
This is no reason to give up hope. There are many ways to cope with sexual problems
- Psychological therapy. Talking with a licensed professional can help you deal with your intimacy problems. A therapist can be more than just venting your frustrations or deepest emotions, and they can also provide mental strategies or coping tips to help you overcome pain or discomfort you feel during sex.
- Improve couple communication. Your partner is here to support you–no matter what you're going through. By opening up about your problems, you and your partner can work together to develop ways to decrease pain during physical intimacy.
- Use water-soluble lubricants. If you're a woman, a common symptom of sexual dysfunction in women with MS is vaginal dryness. You can relieve the pain you feel from vaginal dryness during sexual activities with lubricants. You can find lubricants at your local pharmacy.
- Medications. For less pain during intercourse, improve fatigue and improve other symptoms would help people with MS less apprehensive about sex. For men, you can try medications like Viagra, Cialis or Levitra.
What Can Help With My MS Bowel Problems?
Bowel problems in people with MS can cause feelings of discomfort, embarrassment or may even exacerbate other MS symptoms. The most common bowel problems in MSer's is constipation, loss of bowel control, and diarrhea.
While dealing with MS bowel problems is uncomfortable, there are ways to remedy it:
- Drink plenty of fluids. It is recommended that adults drink 8-12 (8 oz.) cups of water per day. You can also incorporate juices and other non-alcoholic beverages into your drinking routine.
- Physical activity. Walking, swimming, yoga, and low-impact exercises can all help to get the bowels moving.
- Eating a diet with adequate fiber. Following a diet that has whole-grains, fruits and vegetables can help to soften stools and lessen diarrhea.
- Medications. Remedies to help with bowel problems may include laxatives, stool softeners, bulk-forming supplements, enemas, or suppositories. Remember to discuss with your doctor about your bowel problems before trying an over-the-counter remedy.
What Are Some Effective MS Pain Treatments?
Many MS sufferers experience pain; one study found that about half of the MS participants experienced a significant amount of pain at one point, and about half of them overall have had chronic pain.
The medications given to persons with MS to control pain are from other classes of drug groups. Studies have found that these drugs are effective in managing the pain experienced by the patients. Interventions include:
- Pain management strategies. These strategies involve working with your physician, neurologist, physical therapist and psychologist to find ways to cope and manage your pain.
- Anti-seizure medications. Drugs like Tegretol and Dilantin have been found to be useful for pain control in MS patients.
- Antidepressants. Antidepressants can treat more than just anxiety and depression, and they can even help relieve pain. It is believed that antidepressants work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters, like serotonin, in the brain and spinal cord that regulate pain sensations from the body. Well-known antidepressants used for pain are Elavil, Pamelor, and Effexor.
- Over-the-counter pain medications. If you're looking for an affordable way to manage your pain, options like Ibuprofen and Diclofenac can help immensely.
- Prescribed pain medications. If over-the-counter solutions don't work, you will need to talk to your doctor about your pain medication options. Your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants, prescription-only NSAIDs, Botox, or Opioids.
What Should I Do About My Depression?
Clinical depression is the most common form of depression within the population of MS. Numerous factors can cause depression, from feeling isolated to receiving a diagnosis to MS-related changes.
Don't give up though, and there are treatment options for depression out there to help:
- Antidepressants. Numerous antidepressants may help to treat your depression. Your physician will discuss with you what your options are.
- Psychotherapy. Talk therapy may help people with MS who are emotionally overwhelmed. This type of treatment provides helpful coping strategies and a safe place to vent out your difficulties and feelings.
The Takeaway
Using therapies that do not involve taking medication should not be ignored. Things like journaling and yoga are activities that are relaxing and may de-stress your life.
As you're likely aware, stress can aggravate symptoms such as pain and fatigue. By practicing stress-relieving methods, you can control some of the symptoms MS causes. Being empowered will also boost your confidence.
Resources
National Multiple Sclerosis Society (MS Symptoms)
