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Multiple Sclerosis Foundation

Our Mission

The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MSF) provides a comprehensive approach to helping people with MS. We strive to motivate, educate, and empower people with MS to maintain their health and well-being.

The MSF offers a wide array of free services including national toll-free support, educational programs, homecare, support groups, assistive technology, publications, a comprehensive website, and more to improve the quality of life for those affected by MS.

Our resources assist people who have MS, their families and caregivers, regional support groups, and healthcare professionals. Access to our programs and services is available through our interactive web site or our national, toll-free helpline staffed by caring caseworkers and peer counselors. Our priority is to serve with empathy, resourcefulness and responsibility.

All MSF services, as well as information, literature and subscriptions to our publications are provided free of charge.



Activity

  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    What is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?
    The Anxiety Disorders Association of America estimates that generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) affects about 6.8 million American adults a year, with women being twice as likely to be affected as men. People who are suffering from GAD experience uncontrollable and extreme worry about hypo...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    Can learning how to cope with my multiple sclerosis lessen my depression?
    Interestingly, studies in multiple sclerosis (MS) and depression have found that there is no direct relationship between the progression of MS or disability and depression. Rather, the level of depression is more associated with the number of coping strategies that people with MS possess....  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    What are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)?
    Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), Celexa (citalopram), Paxil (paroxetine), and Lexapro (escitalopram). They are the commonly used first-line agents for depression and many anxiety disorders.  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    How is hearing tested in cases of multiple sclerosis (MS)?
    A basic hearing test is conducted in a sound-controlled booth with earphones and involves an audiometer. This screening tool will produce a range of tones that vary in pitch and intensity. Your response to these tones can help determine the degree, type and pattern of your hearing loss. The...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    How common is fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis (MS)?
    Experienced by 75-95 percent of people with multiple sclerosis (MS), fatigue is the most commonly reported symptom associated with the disease. Approximately 50-60 percent describe fatigue as their most disabling symptom, regardless of their disease course or level of ability.  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    Can multiple sclerosis (MS) affect my hearing?
    No particular pattern of hearing loss has been associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), although some studies have suggested that a loss of hearing in the high frequencies, low frequencies, or both, with best hearing in the mid-frequencies (also known as an arched or dome configuration) may...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    How common is erectile dysfunction (ED)?
    Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common. According to a Johns Hopkins study, nearly 20 percent of American men are affected. Among men aged 40 through 70, the numbers climb to 50 percent. Though the condition is highly treatable, only 10 to 15 percent of those experiencing ED seek medical sol...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    Why should I discuss my sexual problems with my partner if I have MS?
    Although it can be awkward, couples dealing with multiple sclerosis (MS) should make every effort to discuss their sexual difficulties. If you simply shy away from physical intimacy or avoid sex, your partner may assume you're no longer interested in him or her and may not realize that MS...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    How common is sexual dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis (MS)?
    It's normal for everyone, with or without multiple sclerosis (MS), to occasionally experience sexual difficulties. However, for people with MS, many additional hurdles can get in the way of having a satisfying sex life. Up to 90 percent of men and 70 percent of women with MS report having...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    Why might I lose touch with my sexuality if I have multiple sclerosis (MS)?
    It's not unusual for someone with multiple sclerosis (MS) to lose touch with their sexuality as they battle physical challenges. If your self-image changes due to illness and your self-esteem suffers, you may no longer feel like a sexual being. When this happens, your sex drive can falter,...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    How could acting as a caregiver for my partner with MS affect our sex life?
    A common dilemma for caregivers of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are also spouses is how to transition from one role to the other. When you're helping a loved one with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or walking, it can be confusing to then see them as a lover or sexual...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    How can I maintain a healthy sex life with my partner if I have MS?
    Couples dealing with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are able to successfully transition between their roles of caregiver, care-receiver and lover tend to strive for balance in their lives. For instance, they participate in activities together that have nothing to do with MS. This reminds couples...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    How can I effectively speak if I have a speech problem due to MS?
    Here are some strategies for speaking if you have a speech problem:

    1) If the listener isn't aware you might have difficulty speaking, let them know.

    2) Take your time and don't get frustrated. Speak slowly, pause frequently and consider shortening your sentences to get the basic message...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    What is methylprednisolone for multiple sclerosis (MS)?
    Medrol Dose Pack contains the oral corticosteroid named methylprednisolone. It is administered over six days, with the daily dosage dropping gradually from six tablets to one tablet. This drug is primarily used to treat allergic reactions and acute inflammatory processes, for example, coughing and...  Full Post
  • Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
    Multiple Sclerosis Foundation answered:
    What is a restrictive ventilatory defect in multiple sclerosis (MS)?
    Multiple sclerosis (MS) can result in something called a restrictive ventilatory defect. This is caused by weakness or spasticity in the muscles between the ribs or intercostal muscles. People with a restrictive ventilatory defect may feel short of breath or like they cannot take a deep breath. F...  Full Post