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6 Common Myths About MS

September 13, 2024

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, it’s normal to experience fear and confusion. But a little bit of information can help with your processing and understanding of the disease.

“It’s important for patients to know exactly how MS can and cannot impact their life,” says Brian Wong, MD, a MS specialist with the Hartford Healthcare Ayer Neuroscience Institute Multiple Sclerosis Center.

To provide clarity, Dr. Wong addresses six common myths about MS, the chronic neurodegenerative autoimmune disease that affects nearly one million Americans.

6 common myths about MS

1. You can’t exercise if you have MS.

Exercise isn’t just possible when you have MS — it can actually be very beneficial.

Exercise can improve your balance, strength and overall physical health, which are crucial for managing MS.

But there are some potential side effects you should be aware of.

“The truth is the increase in body temperature during exercise can sometimes impact individuals with MS. They may experience increased fatigue or worsening of previous neurologic symptoms during their exercise,” Dr. Wong explains. “However, exercise will not trigger a relapse and symptoms should return to baseline after the person cools off and rests.”

2. MS is an old person’s disease.

MS is often diagnosed in younger adults, with most people experiencing their first symptoms before age 40.

“It’s actually uncommon for someone to develop MS after the age of 50,” Dr. Wong notes.

The disease does progress with age, making it more noticeable, but early symptoms and diagnosis happen earlier in life.

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3. You don’t need medication if you have mild symptoms.

Even if your MS symptoms seem mild, modern medications are also effective in preventing future MS-related symptoms, says Dr. Wong.

Because of this, most patients are encouraged to take medication and slow disease progression if possible.

4. MS means you’ll need a wheelchair.

The majority of people with MS do not require any kind of wheelchair of mobility aid.

“Most people with MS continue to work and ambulate on their own,” he counters. “Some research suggests around 60% of people with MS will not need a cane, walker or wheelchair for mobility.”

And with advancements in medication, these numbers may continue to improve as treatment options improve.

5. Women with MS shouldn’t get pregnant.

Many women with MS are able to have children, but planning is essential.

Dr. Wong recommends working with your doctor to coordinate MS treatment around family planning. This ensures you avoid using medication that can have an impact on pregnancy.

And if you’re concerned about passing MS on to your children, it’s important to know that although there is some genetic risk, the children of people with MS have a very low percentage change – around 3% – of developing MS.

> Related: 4 Things Women Should Know About MS

6. MS is a fatal disease.

While people with MS currently may have a slightly shorter life expectancy, Dr. Wong says the estimates are likely driven by old data and does not account for the latest treatment options available.

“I expect these statistics will improve in future studies. In general, someone with MS has a similar life expectancy to someone without it,” he says.