Author: Dr David Rog, Megan Burgess, Dr John Mottershead, Dr Paul Talbot

Highly Commended in the 2010 British Medical Association book awards

Multiple sclerosis is a complex and unpredictable neurological disease usually diagnosed in early adulthood. It can affect any part of the brain and spinal cord and the symptoms can vary widely in type and severity. For many people the most disabling aspect of MS is uncertainty about the future and the unpredictability of the symptoms. Accurate information is essential to help you understand this difficult condition and minimise its effect on your life.

Written by four experts on MS, this comprehensive book answers 315 real questions asked by people with multiple sclerosis and their families. It covers the whole range of symptoms and treatments, and offers reliable and practical advice on living life with MS.

• Explains what multiple sclerosis is and the different types and stages of the disease
• Provides a thorough breakdown of all the potential symptoms: fatigue, impaired mobility and balance, nerve pain, visual and speech problems, disrupted bladder function and more
• Gives all the facts about existing treatments and disease modifying drugs, as well as information on new medication and research
• Answers questions about relationships with partners, family and friends, pregnancy and sex
• Offers guidance about practical concerns regarding employment, driving, finances and support

Sample questions:

• I am seeing a neurologist soon. What will he or she do?
• Are there any triggers to cause a relapse and what should I look out for?
• When and how should steroids be used?
• How do I know that the disease modifying drug my doctor has prescribed is the best one for me?
• How do I get to participate in clinical trials of new drugs?
• Can cannabis alter the course of MS?
• What is your opinion about homeopathy as a treatment for MS?
• Will my urinary problems ever get better?
• What is the commonest form of nerve pain in MS?
• I seem to suffer badly with fatigue. Is there anything I can do to help myself?
• How will a physiotherapist evaluate my problems of movement and balance?
• What help is available for drivers?
• Are there any proven treatments for tremor?
• Can MS affect your sexual libido? And, if so, can you get anything on prescription for it?
• I am currently taking several drugs to combat the effects of the MS. Do I need to stop taking these if I decide to become pregnant?
• Now that I have been diagnosed with MS, do I have to tell my employer?
• I am going to have a ‘Needs Assessment’. What will this involve?
• I have two young children who are not yet at school. How much should I tell them about my MS?
• What tips would you give me for getting the most out of my visit to my doctor?

". . . an extremely useful and comprehensive resource for the UK MS community."
Simon Gillespie, Chief Executive, MS Society

"Authoritative and comprehensive, a valuable resource for all those affected by MS."
Chris Jones, Trustee and Co-founder, The MS Trust