About MS
Common Myths
Myth #1: Multiple sclerosis is fatal
Fact: Most people who have MS are expected to live a normal human lifespan. In rare instances, extreme cases of MS may be terminal.
Myth #2: There is no treatment for multiple sclerosis
Fact: While there is no cure as of yet, there are treatments available to help people manage their MS and delay disability progression. The course of treatment will depend on the type of MS and the person’s condition.
Myth #3: Multiple sclerosis means being confined to a wheelchair
Fact: People with MS may experience issues with mobility, but only an estimated 25% use a wheelchair or other assistive devices. Depending on the type and condition of MS, some patients may not need a mobility device or have to adapt to their environment to make life easier, while others may use assistive devices, such as a cane or scooter.
Myth #4: People with multiple sclerosis can't work or have children
Fact: Often, it is suggested that people with MS avoid occupational stress. However, many people with MS do work full-time, productively and successfully. As well, there are no physical reasons why a woman with MS can’t give birth—odds of passing the disease on to the child are low, between 1 and 5%.
Myth #5: Multiple sclerosis isn't a physically painful condition
Fact: A lot of the time MS is associated with numbness, but that doesn't mean people with MS don't also experience physical pain. In fact, studies have shown up to 55% of people with MS will experience significant pain at some point during the course of the disease.
Myth #6: Multiple sclerosis only affects white people
Fact: The occurrence of MS is higher in Caucasians than in other racial groups—but the disease is still found in other races. In fact, a study supported by the National MS Society in the U.S. shows African Americans who develop MS are more susceptible to experience a more aggressive course of the disease.
Myth #7: MS is contagious
Fact: MS is not contagious, nor is it directly inherited; however studies suggest distinct genetic factors make certain people more susceptible to developing MS than others.
Myth #8: Multiple sclerosis is caused by a poor diet or negative thinking
Fact: Although scientists have yet to identify the origin of MS, they do exclude diet and attitude as a cause. It is believed MS is caused by a mixture of environmental and genetic factors.
Myth #9: Multiple sclerosis can be cured through dietary changes or optimism
Fact: A nutritious diet and positive attitude are always advised. But, there is no evidence that supports certain lifestyle choices can act as a cure for MS.
Sources:
Multiple Sclerosis Health Center. Quality Health. Available at: http://www.qualityhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-articles/multiple-sclerosis-myths-vs-facts.
FAQs about MS. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Available at: http://www.nationalmssociety.org/about-multiple-sclerosis/what-we-know-about-ms/faqs-about-ms/index.aspx.
