September, 2003
A Dutch study of 73 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) found that stressful life events made MS symptoms worse. 70 of the subjects reported a total of 457 stressful life events that were not related to their MS. (Stressful events that were determined to be MS-related were excluded.) Three subjects reported no stressful life events. Subjects were followed for an average of 1.4 years. Patients were all able to "walk with a cane or better" at the beginning of the study.
Regular visits between subjects and researchers were scheduled every eight weeks and additional visits were arranged within three days when patients reported an exacerbation of symptoms. Subjects recorded any stressful events that were not related to multiple sclerosis in a diary. Subjects included events such as job stress, financial problems, or death of a close family member.
A total of 134 exacerbations (episodes of worsening symptoms) occurred in 56 patients; and 136 infections occurred in 57 patients. Stress was associated with double the risk of an exacerbation, but there was no relationship between infections and stressful events.
We know that stress has effects on the mind and body. We are beginning to understand some of the mechanisms for this, but others are still a mystery. This study should provide guidance for those with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. It's not possible to totally avoid stressful life events, but it is possible to learn ways to manage stress. Managing stress may help you better manage your MS.
Reference: Self reported stressful life events and exacerbations in multiple sclerosis: prospective study British Medical Journal Volume 327, pp 646-649.
Last updated 3/14/06
