b"MS Focus ActivitiesFFrroommOOuurrWWeebbssiitteeThe MS Focus websitewww.msfocus.orgis a place to apply for our programs, requestmaterials, and nd upcoming events. But it also includes helpful answers to questions youmay have about MS. Here is an excerpt from the site as an example. To nd more information,visit www.msfocus.org and click Get Educated.What can I do to ght my MS?Multiple sclerosis is a challenge, but there are many things you can do to ght it. Start a disease-modifying therapy (DMT). Beginning treatment with a DMT as early aspossible is immensely important. DMTs do not stop or reverse MS, but they do slow itsprogress and help prevent relapses. This will provide you with better quality of life in the longterm. Stick to your treatment schedule. Feeling well is not a reason to stop your medication. Evenin the absence of symptoms, MS can be doing invisible damage to the myelin and axons inyour central nervous system. If you do miss a dose of your DMT, be sure to ask your healthcareprovider how to proceed. If one medication fails, try another. Getting on the right DMT can be a matter of trial anderror. Doctors don't yet know why a person's MS will respond to some treatments and notothers, but there are several options currently available and it is highly likely that one of thesewill benet you. Go (or stay) tobacco-free. Smokers and ex-smokers are at higher risk of getting MS than thosewho've never smoked. Cigarette smoke contributes to inammation in the body.Eat well. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit your intake of fats. A regulardiet like this will not only help fight against MS symptoms, but will also promote goodgeneral health. Sleep well. A lack of sleep can contribute to inammation, aggravate symptoms, and leave youshort on energy for self-care. If you have diculty sleeping, talk to your doctor, as there is anincreased likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea in people with multiple sclerosis. Stay active. Staying active will keep you strong, making it easier to bounce back from arelapse or adapt to progression, not to mention preventing other health conditions that comefrom being sedentary. If staying active becomes more dicult for you because of changes inability, consult a physical therapist. Get support. People with good support networks experience better outcomes and better qualityof life. Reach out to family, friends, and others in your community for help. Call on MS Focusin times of need. Visit our website to learn more about how we can support you.msfocusmagazine.org 24"