Be a Good Patient
Editor's Note: The author of "Be a Good Patient" has been sponsored by Biogen Idec and Elan. But the opinions of these authors are independent and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and policies of Biogen Idec or Elan. Please seek a professional's advice before changing your behavior because of something you have read here.
Author: Sande Hickey
When you talk with others who have MS, the subject of your doctor usually comes up - "Do you feel like your doctor is doing everything he or she can for you?" Perhaps the question really should be, "Are you doing everything you can for yourself?" There are things you can do to be proactive in your own care, which will make you a better patient.
Educate yourself
Don't depend on your doctor to tell you everything about multiple sclerosis. Visit the many sources available to learn what you can about your disease. My doctor encouraged me to use reputable internet sources and not to rely solely on published books. The internet is a good source since it can be easily updated. Visit your local chapter of the MS Society; many have wonderful libraries filled with pamphlets, brochures and videos. Another good source is the web sites and newsletters of the available MS therapies. As you are learning about MS, don't focus on the worst-case scenario—think positive.
Keep up with new developments
Use all of these sources to keep up to date with any new developments in the treatment of MS. Ask your doctor about new therapies for MS. We are lucky to be fighting this disease at a time when there is much activity. For many years, all that could be done for MS was to treat the symptoms. Many sources stress early treatment with one of the MS therapies available today, which may slow the progression of disability caused by an unpredictable and progressive disease.
Keep track of what's going on with you personally
It's a good idea to make notes in a journal of how you feel and what symptoms are better or worse. Note things that may have influenced how you feel like a busy day at work, running many errands, not getting enough sleep the night before or skipping a meal. Sometimes we can help our doctors help us by giving them some clues as to why we may have a particularly good or bad day. Don't show up for your next appointment and simply say "I haven't been feeling well." In addition to coming to your doctor appointment with this information about yourself, make note of questions you want to ask. Also, don't be afraid to take notes during your appointment. We have all thought, "What was that he said?" or "I wish I would have asked him this question."
Take good care of yourself
Whether you are fighting a disease or in perfect health, it always makes sense to eat right, exercise and get enough rest. With the many types of exercise available today, there is some form of exercise we all can do—whatever our limitations. Since fatigue is often a struggle for those of us with MS, learning to listen to your body and pace yourself is a good skill to learn.
In summary
The best way to maximize your plan to fight MS is to become involved—educate yourself, keep up-to-date with new developments and act as a participating partner with your healthcare professional. Combine this strategy with a healthy lifestyle—eat right, exercise and get enough rest. This combination will help you manage your MS; don't let MS manage you!
