Multiple Sclerosis: Symptoms, Support & Care in NI
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong neurological condition that can affect how people move, think, and feel. In Northern Ireland, around 5,334 people are living with MS – that’s 1 in every 350 people (MS Society). Many individuals and families face daily challenges that require understanding, care and support. This article explores the symptoms, types, diagnosis and treatment of MS and highlights how the right care at home can make a real difference to daily life.
What is MS?
MS is a long-term neurological condition that affects the central nervous system – which includes the brain and spinal cord. It occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering (myelin) around nerves, causing inflammation and scarring (sclerosis).
This damage disrupts the way messages travel between the brain and the rest of the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms. MS is a complex and unpredictable condition – but with the right care and support, many people continue to live independent and fulfilling lives.
Symptoms of MS
MS affects everyone differently, and symptoms may come and go (relapses) or gradually worsen over time. Some common symptoms include:
- Extreme tiredness (fatigue)
- Vision problems, such as blurred vision or eye pain
- Numbness or tingling in different parts of the body
- Balance issues, dizziness or clumsiness
- Muscle cramps, spasms and stiffness
- Bladder issues or difficulty controlling urination
- Memory and concentration difficulties
Symptoms may come (called “flare-ups” or “relapses”) and go (called “remissions”), and may get worse over time (NHS).
Types of MS
The 3 main types of MS and how the symptoms might affect you:
- Relapsing remitting – You have flare-ups of symptoms where they get worse (relapse) and then go away or get better (remission). Over time, this type often develops into secondary progressive MS.
- Secondary progressive – Your symptoms are there all the time, and get slowly worse. This type of MS can come after relapsing remitting MS.
- Primary progressive – Your symptoms slowly get worse over time. You do not have periods when they go away or get better (remission). This is less common than the other types of MS.
Diagnosing MS
Diagnosing MS can be a complex process, as the symptoms often vary widely and can resemble other conditions. There’s no single test for MS, so diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical history, neurological examinations, and specialist tests.
A neurologist may use the following to confirm a diagnosis:
- MRI scans – to detect areas of damage or scarring (lesions) in the brain or spinal cord
- Evoked potential tests – to measure how quickly the brain responds to stimuli
- Lumbar puncture – to examine fluid from around the spine for signs of inflammation
- Blood tests – to rule out other possible causes of symptoms
Early diagnosis is important, as starting treatment sooner can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the condition.
Treatment Options for MS
While there’s currently no cure for MS, a range of treatments can help manage symptoms, reduce relapses and support overall wellbeing:
- Disease-Modifying Therapies – these medications, mainly used for relapsing remitting MS, can reduce relapses and slow progression
- Steroids – sometimes used during relapses to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery
- Symptom Management – supports fatigue, muscle spasms, bladder issues, pain and mood changes
- Therapies & Lifestyle Support – many people benefit from physiotherapy, occupational therapy, counselling, and healthy lifestyle choices such as staying active and eating well
Treatment is tailored to each person. A strong care team, including medical professionals, therapists and home care providers, plays a key role in helping people live well with MS.
Living Well with MS: Home Care Support
MS brings daily challenges, but the right support can make a real difference. Caremark NI provides personalised home care tailored to individuals living with MS. Our care assistants can help with:
- Personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)
- Meal preparation and healthy eating
- Mobility support and fall prevention
- Medication reminders and routines
- Companionship and emotional wellbeing
- Encouragement to stay active and engaged
Every person’s experience with MS is unique, and so is the care we provide. Whether it’s a few hours a week or daily support, our team helps people live independently at home.
Conclusion – Supporting Life with MS
Living with MS can be challenging, but with the right support and care, people can maintain independence and enjoy life. Understanding the condition, recognising symptoms, and accessing personalised home care all play a vital role in living well with MS. If you or a loved one are living with MS and need support at home, Caremark NI is here to help.
Contact us today at 028 9146 7004 to learn more about our care services and how we can support you or your family.
About Caremark NI
Caremark NI provides high-quality home care services, supporting people to live safely and independently at home. Our dedicated team offers compassionate and professional care tailored to each individual’s needs.
Learn more about our Caremark NI office and explore our home care in Belfast, North Down & Ards, and Lisburn & Down. Get in touch today to find out how we can support you or your loved one.