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People with non-relapsing secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (nrSPMS) often have to manage symptoms like memory loss and cognitive difficulties. Sometimes called brain fog, these changes can affect every part of your daily life! It can be harder to remember important information, focus, or even find the right word in a conversation. Frustrating? Yes. But fortunately, there are steps you can take as a person living with the condition or as a caregiver to improve cognitive function. Let's dive into why memory loss is so common for people with MS, how it affects daily life, and what you can do to support better brain health.
Why Does Memory Loss Happen in MS?
MS affects the central nervous system which is made up of the brain and spinal cord. Cognitive issues happen because MS damages the myelin, the protective coating around nerve fibers. This damage slows down communication between nerve cells, making it harder for the brain to process and recall information. While memory loss is one of the most well-known issues people run into, other symptoms include:
- Difficulty concentrating and maintaining attention.
- Slower processing of information.
- Trouble finding the right words in conversations.
- Difficulties with problem-solving and multitasking.
- Feeling mentally fatigued.
These symptoms vary from person to person and can change daily. Things like stress, fatigue, and a poor night's sleep can make symptoms worse.
How to Improve Memory
If you start to run into issues with memory, what can you do? Although MS-related cognitive decline cannot always be reversed, there are some steps you can take to help manage and improve function.
Keep Your Brain Active
Regular mental exercises can improve how your brain functions. Memory games and brain-training apps have become increasingly popular in the last decade. These are designed to help improve recall and work on problem-solving skills. Reading and trying to learn new skills also helps! Whether it is an online course or diving into a new language, working on new neural pathways can keep you sharp. Puzzles like Sudoku or Scrabble can help with focus and memory.
Stay Organized
Organization is always important, especially if you are starting to run into brain fog. Using organizational tools can help with forgetfulness and keeping track of important information. Using a digital planner or calendar reminders will help with your schedule. Some people prefer to write things down, so keeping a notebook or sticky notes nearby to track important details and changes can be beneficial. Any essentials, like keys, glasses or your waller, should be kept in the same place every day.
Manage Stress and Fatigue
Stress and fatigue can make cognitive symptoms worse. If you need to work on these, mindfulness or meditation can be a great place to start. You can also take regular breaks to avoid getting mentally exhausted. A lot of people find that stretching, yoga, or listening to calming music are good at managing stress.
Sleep, Sleep, Sleep
A good night's sleep is important to everything we do! It helps us heal physically and recover mentally. A poor night's sleep can make memory problems worse. Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. You should also limit your screen time before bed! The blue light from your phone or TV actually interferes with melatonin production in your brain, making it harder to fall asleep. Do whatever you need to do to create a relaxing bedtime routine. Reading or taking a warm bath can help signal your body that it is time to go to bed.
Healthy Lifestyle
Just like how sleep affects your health, the lifestyle choices we make also play a role in how well our brain functions! A balanced diet full of vitamins, minerals, vegetables and antioxidants will fuel you properly. Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain. Things like walking, swimming, or yoga are good options. Finally, if you are a smoker, try to quit! Smoking can make MS symptoms worse and make cognitive issues worse.
Professional Support
For some people, severe cognitive changes may require professional support. Cognitive rehabilitation is a type of therapy aimed at improving memory, problem-solving, and attention. Here, a trained specialist works on personalized strategies to improve cognitive skills. Speech and language therapy can help with communication if this has become a challenge. Addressing the emotional side of MS also can help quite a bit. Finding a support group or talking to a therapist or counselor can help address concerns about memory loss.
If memory loss interferes with your daily life, talk to your doctor or MS care team. Sometimes, the symptoms could be linked to other factors like medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies, or depression. Your doctor can recommend rehabilitation or adjustments to treatment to help support brain health.
Memory loss and cognitive changes are common in MS, but they don't have to take control of your life. By making simple adjustments, staying engaged, and getting support, people with nrSPMS can improve their overall quality of life. If you or a loved one are struggling, reach out for guidance and support.
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