Multiple Sclerosis: Do quality apps exist?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative neurological disease that can have a profound impact on the lives of those affected by it. The symptoms of MS can range from mild to severe, and there is currently no cure for the disease.
Not only are there pharmacological treatments to help manage the symptoms of MS, there are also a number of non-pharmacological options that can help improve the condition of people with MS. This is where apps may be helpful.
How does multiple sclerosis affect the daily lives of people who suffer from it?
The symptoms of MS can vary greatly from person to person, and the severity of the symptoms can also fluctuate over time. The most common symptom of MS is fatigue, which can be debilitating and have a profound impact on a person's quality of life. Other common symptoms include muscle weakness, spasticity, problems with balance and coordination, bladder and bowel dysfunction, numbness or tingling in the limbs, vision problems, and cognitive difficulties. The combination of some or more of these symptoms can cause a progressive loss of autonomy, which can become severe and permanent.
Non-Pharmacological Options for the Treatment of MS
There are a number of non-pharmacological options that can help to improve the condition of those with MS. These options include:
Exercise
Exercise has been shown to be beneficial for people with MS, and can help to improve symptoms such as fatigue and muscle weakness. Exercise can also help to improve mental health, and can reduce stress levels.Diet
A healthy diet is important for people with MS, as it can help to reduce inflammation and promote overall health. Some specific dietary changes that may be helpful for people with MS include eating more omega-3 fatty acids, reducing saturated fat intake, and increasing intake of fruits and vegetables.Cognitive behavioral therapy
This type of therapy can help people with MS manage their symptoms by teaching them how to identify and change negative thinking patterns. CBT has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety, depression, and fatigue in people with MS.Complementary therapies
There are a number of complementary therapies that have been shown to be beneficial for people with MS. These therapies include massage, acupuncture, yoga, tai chi, and meditation.
Icompanion is a free app and web platform that helps you with the home monitoring of your condition. It is easy to use and full of relevant information for you. In only a few minutes a day, you will have an overview of your daily mood, any notes you wish to add, all your treatments, therapies, etc. to share with your clinician at your next visit. In addition, icompanion contains clinical tests to monitor your level of disability, cognitive abilities, and level of fatigue, among others. Furthermore, icompanion allows you to set reminders for your treatments, as to not forget any of them. This app is available in multiple languages, including French.
Emilyn is a free app that was designed in partnership with over 1,500 people with MS. It has got specially designed features to help you understand your symptoms, beat your brain fog and have more productive conversations with your doctor. It's also discreet and secure so you don't have to worry about anyone seeing your health information. Since its launch, Emilyn has improved the lives of over 50,000 people with MS.
Aby is a free app designed to help Canadians living with multiple sclerosis (MS) take control of their health. The app features a personalized journal to track symptoms, medication, and appointments, as well as direct chat with nurse educators, tailored content, and wellness programs. Aby also allows users to connect with their healthcare team and support partners, and access content and programs specifically designed for people living with MS, including information on nutrition needs, physical activity and how meditation may help.
Conclusion
There are a number of apps available that can help people with multiple sclerosis manage their condition. These apps can provide information and support, as well as helping with reminders for appointments and medications. While there is currently no cure for MS, these apps can help people to better understand their disease and the options available to them, and support them in non-pharmacological management of their disease.
Your health care professional can help you choose
Feeling confident is important. Get all the essential information about health apps by talking to your healthcare professional.
AppGuide provides reliable information about mobile health apps that allows patients and healthcare professionals to make informed, shared decisions about using a health app to track health status or act on your priority health goals.