Breaking it down - A multiple sclerosis podcast

Do you have feel embarrassed about your MS symptoms? Do you find some topics difficult to talk about? You’re not the only one. 85% of people we surveyed felt embarrassed by at least one of their symptoms and many of the community were hiding their symptoms from their partners. A third of people living with MS also avoided seeking medical help due to embarrassment. It’s time to shatter the stigma. MS Trust ambassadors, Trishna Bharadia, Dr Agne Straukiene and Richard Sprenger tackle taboo subjects like sexual dysfunction, bladder and bowel issues, drugs and opening up to your employer. Listen now for honest experiences, tips and more. Show Notes MS Awareness Week 2024 mstrust.org.uk/get-involved/ms-awareness-week Working life and MS mstrust.org.uk/information-support/work-money-legal/working-life Equality act mstrust.org.uk/a-z/equality-act Sexual problems for men with MS mstrust.org.uk/a-z/sexual-problems-men-ms Sexual problems for women with MS mstrust.org.uk/a-z/sexual-problems-women-ms Bladder and Bowel problems mstrust.org.uk/a-z/bladder-and-bowel-problems Podcasts How can I manage my MS bowel problems? mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/how-can-i-manage-my-ms-bowel-problems How can I manage my MS bladder problems? mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/how-can-i-manage-my-ms-bladder-problems Talking toilet troubles in MS mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/talking-toilet-troubles-ms Cognition and thinking problems in MS mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/cognition-and-thinking-problems-ms Sex and MS part 1 (women) mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/sex-and-ms-part-1-women Sex and MS part 2 (men) mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/sex-and-ms-part-2-men Relationships and MS mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/relationships-and-ms Working life and MS mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/working-life-and-ms

Have you ever wondered how your hormones might affect your MS? We're joined by podcast guests Olivia Mason, a woman diagnosed with multiple sclerosis not long after giving birth, and Professor Ruth Dobson, a consultant neurologist specialising in MS. Together, we explore how periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause can influence MS. Here's what we cover • Can periods make MS symptoms worse? • Is pregnancy protective for women with MS? • Can you use disease modifying drugs (DMDs) whilst pregnant? • Can women with MS safely breastfeed? • How does menopause affect MS symptoms? • Plus, Olivia shares her personal experience and insights on navigating an MS diagnosis as a new mother. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to understand more about how periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding and the menopause can affect multiple sclerosis. Listen now for all of the latest information, tips and more! Episode notes - MS Trust A-Z on MS and Hormones: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/hormones - MS Trust A-Z on MS and pregnancy: mstrust.org.uk/search/pregnancy - MS Trust A-Z on MS and breastfeeding: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/breastfeeding - MS Trust A-Z on MS and menopause: mstrust.org.uk/search/menopause - MS Trust Podcast on MS and menopause: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/how-does-menopause-affect-ms - Can the menopause affect MS - Research update: mstrust.org.uk/research/research-updates/update151013-menopause-MS -UK guidelines for treating multiple sclerosis symptoms during pregnancy - Research Update: mstrust.org.uk/news/research/230515-uk-guidelines-treating-multiple-sclerosis-symptoms-during-pregnancy - Why I created The Twelve Day Marathon - Blog by Olivia on MS Trust website: mstrust.org.uk/news/stories/why-i-created-twelve-day-marathon - UK MS pregnancy Register: ukmsregister.org/pregnancy

Bowel problems and MS. The underdiscussed topic that can leave many feeling anxious about leaving home. Have you experienced constipation or incontinence and wondered what part multiple sclerosis plays in them? Our podcast guests, Noreen Barker (MS Nurse Consultant) and Concetta Brugaletta (Clinical Nurse Specialist), are on a mission to shatter the stigma around bowel issues and MS. We talk treatments, strategies, tips and more! Join us as we discuss the loo taboo. Plus, find out what options are available for people living with MS bowel issues. Listen now. Show notes Bowel problems in MS - information from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-z/bowel-problems Manging your Bowel - Free book from MS Trust shop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/managing-your-bowels Ask the expert bladder and bowel problems in MS - information from the MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/ask-expert-bowel-and-bladder-problems-ms Finding a toilet when out and about - article from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/finding-toilet-when-out-and-about

Are MS bladder problems bursting the seams of your day-to-day life? You’re not alone. Around 75% of people living with MS experience bladder issues and we know how frustrating and isolating they can be. That’s why we’re talking to MS specialist nurse, Grace Hazlett, about treatment options, preventative strategies and practical advice. She gives us the low down on pelvic floor exercises, fluid retention, catheters and more! Whether you’re constantly fighting the urge to go, or looking for ways to prevent future bladder problems, this might just be the podcast for you. Listen now to find out tips, tricks, and practical advice to support MS bladder issues. Show notes Bladder problems in MS - information from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-z/bladder-problems Manging your Bladder - Free book from MS Trust shop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/managing-your-bladder/ Ask the expert bladder and bowel problems in MS - information from the MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/ask-expert-bowel-and-bladder-problems-ms What can you do about bladder problems in MS - MS Trust video with Angie Rantell, Consultant Nurse in Urogynaecology youtu.be/qXitm--wAnw

Living with MS means you might hit some unexpected mental health turbulence at times. Throw in the cost of living crisis, shocking world events and the gloomy news cycle and things around you can easily start to feel pressurised. Well, we may not have the answers to all of the world’s problems, but what we do have is a rather brilliant podcast guest: Professor Derek Willis. He tells us how being kind to yourself can unlock new perspectives in life. Plus, he outlines some practical strategies for managing the expectations of others and taking healthy breaks. Listen now for tips, tricks and more! And … breathe. Episode notes MS and mindfulness with Justin Standfield - video on YouTube Mindfulness and MS - Information from MS Trust Wellbeing and MS - Information from MS Trust Can mindfulness really help my MS? - podcast from MS Trust MS: your emotions and feelings - podcast from MS Trust

Ok, you’ve heard all about mindfulness and maybe you’re even considering giving it a go. But can it actually help you manage life with MS? Is it just one of those trendy well-being fads like eating charcoal or moss smoothies (yep, they’re both actually real)? Mindfulness teacher, Justin Standfield, lives with MS and he joins us to dispel a couple of mindful myths. Plus, he shares some practical ways that he manages his own MS symptoms using mindfulness. Join us to learn tips, tricks and approaches to mindful matters and MS. Episode Notes MS and mindfulness with Justin Standfield - video on YouTube Mindfulness and MS - Information from MS Trust Wellbeing and MS - Information from MS Trust How to meditate for beginners - information from the NHS comeonbabylightmyfire.com - Justin's Blog Justin on X A selection mindfulness apps (not reviewed or endorsed by the MS Trust) Headspace Calm Insight Timer Simple Habit Buddhify

What have the MS community been asking about this year? We interview Corinne from our helpline team who tackles the burning MS questions and trends that our service has encountered in 2023. In our busiest helpline year yet, the range of questions has been vast! We cover symptoms, equipment and a whole lot more. Plus, Dr Claire Winchester joins us for a fun experiment! We put forward your questions to an AI chatbot to see if it could be a useful source of MS information. Dive in to see if it has same level of expertise as our helpline service. Listen now for tips, helpful information and more. Episode Notes MS Trust HelplineSupporting the MS Trust - information from the MS TrustMS Trust Facebook Groupmstrust.org.uk/a-z/fatiguemstrust.org.uk/a-z/painmstrust.org.uk/information-support/newly-diagnosedmstrust.org.uk/information-support/work-money-legal/working-lifemstrust.org.uk/information-support/home-and-travel/equipmentmstrust.org.uk/a-z/altered-sensationsmstrust.org.uk/a-z/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mrimstrust.org.uk/news/focus-fact-or-fictionmultiplesclerosisnewstoday.com/news-posts/2023/11/27/

If you’re not sure how to best prepare for your next MS Nurse appointment, this could be the podcast for you. No matter where you are on your MS journey, talking about your condition can bring on a wave of emotions. Your mind is likely to be brimming with questions and points to raise. Add in long NHS waiting lists and squeezed appointment times, and it might feel as though you’re facing a steep challenge. When your appointment does come around, how can you make the most of your time with an MS Nurse and avoid information overload? Our podcast guest, MS Trust Lead Nurse Specialist, Dr Lou Jarrett explores some helpful tips on how to best prepare for your appointment. Learn how to build long-lasting relationships with your MS Nurse, what questions to ask and what to do whilst you’re waiting to be seen. Finally, we'll touch on why the MS Trust is on a mission to train MS Nurses in the UK. Episode notes Making the most of your appointmentsQuestions to ask health professional MS Trust HelplineThe Big Give - Supporting the MS Trust - information from the MS TrustHow we train and support your MS health professionalsPatient initiated follow-up (PIFU)MS Trust Facebook Group

Feeling overwhelmed and anxious at the thought of discussing your MS with a neurologist? Wondering what questions to ask and what you should bring? You’re not alone. Whether you’re preparing for your first appointment or your tenth, emotions can be heightened. Add in the limited time that you get to talk to them and lengthy NHS waiting lists, and it can make you feel as though you’re fighting an uphill battle. We caught up with MS Trust Ambassador, Dr Agne Straukiene, to set out some strategies for making the most of your neurology appointments. Find out how to bring up sensitive topics, what you can do when you’re waiting to be seen and who you should bring with you. Listen now to hear our helpful tips and get yourself prepared for your next neurologist appointment. Show notes: Making the most of your appointments - info from the MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/information-support/newly-diagnosed/making-most-appointments Questions to ask health professionals - info from the MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/a-z/questions-ask-health-professionals MS Trust Helpline: mstrust.org.uk/what-we-do/about-us/ms-helpline-and-information Bee Well With MS Podcast with Dr Agne Straukiene beewellwithms.com

Ever wondered if smoking affects your MS? Sure, we all know the health risks linked to smoking. But, does smoking cause multiple sclerosis progression? And will your MS symptoms improve if you quit smoking? We dive deep into these questions with consultant neurologist, Professor Richard Nicholas. Plus, Caroline Smith, who lives with MS, talks us through the steps she took to quit smoking. Listen now! Show Notes Smoking and MS - info from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/smoking Quitting smoking slows down MS progression - info from MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/news/research/230411-quitting-smoking-slows-down-ms-progression Five top tips for improving your lung health – blog from Jodi Barber - -mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/five-top-tips-improving-your-lung-health Stoptober - Stop smoking campaign from NHS www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking The MS Register: ukmsregister.org Set up a fundraising challenge: mstrust.org.uk/get-involved/fundraising-and-events/do-it-your-way

Multiple sclerosis can affect breathing in advanced MS. But breathing problems can begin at any stage with MS. To explain more in this podcast we talk to Racheal Moses who is a Consultant Respiratory Physiotherapist and Neuro Physiotherapist Jody Barber. They explain how you can spot breathing problems early, what you can do if you have breathing difficulties and what you can do to try to prevent them occurring in the future. Show Notes Breathing problems - info from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/breathing-problems Breathing exercises - info from MS Trust: /mstrust.org.uk/information-support/exercise-ms/build-your-own-exercise-routine/breathing-exercises Five top tips for improving your lung health – blog from Jodi Barber - -mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/five-top-tips-improving-your-lung-health Speech and language therapy – info from MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/a-z/speech-and-language-therapy Mindfulness and MS – article Jody mentions - mstrust.org.uk/news/views-and-comments/mindfulness-and-ms

This is a recording from a live stream we did earlier with the Head of Information and Engagement at the MS Trust Claire Winchester, we chat to her about a report called “Life changing: mental health and MS". In this report we find out about what the MS community in the UK has to say about mental with and Multiple Sclerosis. Episode notes Read the full report, Life changing: mental health and MS: shop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/life-changing-mental-health-and-ms/ Depression and MS - info from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/depression Anxiety and MS - info from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/anxiety Life changing: mental health and MS - news from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/life-changing-mental-health-and-ms Ask the expert: Mental health and MS - info from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/ask-expert-mental-health-and-ms Five top tips to help health professionals look after their mental health - blog from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/news/views-and-comments/five-top-tips-help-health-professionals-look-after-their-mental-health It's all in your head: Mental health and MS - podcast from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/mental-health-and-ms MS: your emotions and feelings - live podcast from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/ms-your-emotions-and-feelings-live Getting to grips with using a mobility aid - podcast from MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/getting-grips-using-mobility-aid MS and your feelings- publication from the MS Trust shop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/ms-and-your-feelings/

Sleep problems are more common in people with MS than the general population. Around half of people with MS say they experience disturbed sleep. In this episode we talk about some common problems and some potential ways to improve your sleep. We chat to prof Michael Banissy who has written several books on the topic and we also caught up with tiktok star Jo, also known as the Yorkshire wife, to talk to her about her issues with sleep. Show Notes Sleep and MS - information from The MS Trust: https://mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/sleep Focus on sleep problems - information from the MS Trust: https://mstrust.org.uk/news/expert/focus-sleep-problems-ms Sleep and MS podcast - podcast from MS Trust: https://mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/sleep-problems-ms The Yorkshire Wife On tikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@theyorkshirewife

Diagnosing MS can be a lengthy procedure, and getting on a treatment path can take even longer. So what happens when you treat potential MS really early? In this episode, we talk to Professor Klaus Schmierer about the AttackMS trial. The trial, the first of its kind, aims to use a highly-effective drug to treat people within 14 days of presenting with possible MS symptoms. Show Notes AttackMS trial: - classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05418010 How is MS Diagnosed - information from The MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/ms-symptoms-diagnosis/how-is-ms-diagnosed CIS - information from The MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/clinically-isolated-syndrome-cis Taking part in clinical trials - information from The MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/ms-research/which-trials-and-where The MS Guide video interview with other AttackMS participants https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j-t2qUhhO0 AttackMS: assessing the feasibility of multiple sclerosis treatment within 14 days of presentation - YouTube To get in touch with AttackMS Email: bartshealth.attackms@nhs.net Twitter: @AttackMS_trial Internet: https://multiple-sclerosis-research.org/2023/02/attack-attack-attack-underway/

Have you been told to consider using a stick or wheelchair, but don't think you're ready for it yet? Maybe you're noticing changes to your walking ability and you’re wondering what you can do about it? In this episode, we talk to neuro physio Laura about helpful mobility aids, and how to change your perspective on using them. We also check in with Hayley (my_sassability), who was diagnosed with MS aged just 13. She now uses mobility aids and is passionately advocating the importance of being seen not just using her wheelchair, but being proud to use her wheelchair. Show notes Hayley's Blog on MS Trust website: mstrust.org.uk/news/stories/my-sassability-if-we-are-not-seen-we-are-not-heard A-Z of MS Walking difficulties: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/walking-difficulties Mobility problems and aids in MS (Part 1) podcast from MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/mobility-problems-and-aids-ms-part-1 Mobility problems and aids in MS (Part 2) podcast from MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/podcasts/mobility-problems-and-aids-ms-part-2 Neuroheroes: www.neuroheroes.co.uk

So you want to lead a healthier lifestyle with MS? But, you're feeling overwhelmed and you're not sure where to start? We've been there. Can simple changes in sleep, exercise, and diet REALLY influence MS management? Special guest Charlie Peel, author of ‘Disease-modifying lifestyle in multiple sclerosis: evidence, challenges, and the importance of engaged, informed patients,’ gives us her take on the small steps that can make a massive difference to you. Learn practical strategies for positive lifestyle changes today! Plus listen to our colleague Stephen’s MS journey. You’ll hear about how the exercise challenge ‘Miles for MS’ changed his life, why he’s now organising it and how you can get involved! Oh, and the best part? This challenge is truly accessible to everyone in the MS community! Listen now to discover the power of setting goals, staying active and living well with MS. Show notes Miles for MS - Find out how you can get involved https://mstrust.org.uk/event/miles-ms Exercise and MS - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/exercise-ms Diet and MS - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/diet-ms Lifestyle Choices - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/lifestyle-choices Sleep and MS - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/sleep Exercise is good for your brain - research update from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/research/research-updates/210203-exercise-good-brain BeeWellWithMS Podcast with Dr Agne Straukiene - https://www.spreaker.com/user/12181923

Ready to take steps to improve your brain health? Neurologist Agne Straukiene (also host of BeeWellWithMS podcast) has a multi-pronged, scientific approach to boost your mental health, symptom management, fatigue resilience, cognition and sleep quality. We talk tailored exercise, learning how diet helps and hinders your MS, and the lowdown on supplements. Plus, how sleep, meditation, and stretching your mind with a new hobby or skill play their part too. Show Notes Episode notes: -Brain health and MS - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/brain-health -Exercise and MS - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/exercise-ms - Diet and MS - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/diet-ms - Lifestyle Choices - Information from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/lifestyle-choices - Sleep and MS - Information from the MS Trust mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms/sleep -Staying Smart - tool from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/staying-smart -Brain health - article from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/a-z/brain-health -Exercise is good for your brain - research update from the MS Trust: mstrust.org.uk/research/research-updates/210203-exercise-good-brain - Bee Well with MS podcast -podcast from Dr Agne Straukiene

During MS Awareness week we aired a live podcast were we talked all things MS, emotions and feelings. Our recent survey of over 2,000 people living with MS, revealed that 56% feel that MS negatively impacts their mental health. We were super excited to be joined by two excellent guests, who answered questions from the viewers: - Roshan das Nair • Senior Research Scientist, SINTEF, Norway • Professor of Clinical Psychology & Neuropsychology, University of Nottingham, UK - Dr Cora Sargeant, Educational Psychologist and presenter of Sciencing the s**t out of MS. Show notes -MS and your feelings, especially for people who are new to MS shop.mstrust.org.uk/publications/ms-and-your-feelings/ - This hub on our website connects you to all kinds of options to support your emotional wellbeing. mstrust.org.uk/information-support/wellbeing-ms - Mood matters film: youtube.com/watch?v=euZvutKFimU - MS Trust Mental health podcast series - It's all in your head

Every week around 130 people are diagnosed with MS. Finding information you can trust is important, particularly when you're newly diagnosed, as learning about MS can help you take control and feel more secure in a time of uncertainty. In this episode, we chat with Corinne from our helpline about what questions they hear from people who have recently been diagnosed and the types of responses they give to them. We also talk to Team GB athlete Lina Nielsen, who was diagnosed as a teenager about her MS diagnosis and her approaches to handling the condition. Episode notes - Newly diagnosed?: mstrust.org.uk/information-support/newly-diagnosed - MS Trust what is MS?: mstrust.org.uk/about-ms/what-ms - MS trust how is MS diagnosed?: mstrust.org.uk/about-ms/what-ms/how-ms-diagnosed - MS Trust A-Z of MS : mstrust.org.uk/a-z - MS Trust contact us: mstrust.org.uk/what-we-do/contact-us - Lina Nielson's Instagram: instagram.com/linaruns Our MS Trust Enquiry Service helpline is available from Monday to Friday (except UK bank holidays) from 9am to 5pm. Outside these hours you can leave us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Call our Enquiry Service on 0800 032 38 39 or you can email us ask@mstrust.org.uk. It’s available to anyone who wants to know more about MS, not just those currently living with the condition.

In this episode, we are doing an MS awareness week special. This year the campaign looked at how MS affects everybody differently and encouraged people to share their experiences using the hashtag #MSMakesMe. Helena and Erika, from our fundraising team, catch up on what has happened throughout the week, as well as some exciting things that are happening in the next few months for the MS Trust. Want to join the conversation? Listen now to find out how you can get involved and make your voice heard. Episode notes - MS Awareness week: mstrust.org.uk/MSAW - Live stream - MS: Your emotions and feelings: mstrust.org.uk/get-involved/ms-awareness-week#register - MS and mindfulness with Justin Standfield - YouTube - How does MS Make you feel?: mstrust.org.uk/news/how-does-ms-make-you-feel - Miles for MS: mstrust.org.uk/event/miles-ms - Host a Thirtea party: mstrust.org.uk/party - Volenteer with the MS Trust - mstrust.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering - MS Trust contact us: mstrust.org.uk/what-we-do/contact-us Our MS Trust Enquiry Service helpline is available from Monday to Friday (except UK bank holidays) from 9am to 5pm. Outside these hours you can leave us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Call our Enquiry Service on 0800 032 38 39 or you can email us ask@mstrust.org.uk. It’s available to anyone who wants to know more about MS, not just those currently living with the condition. To contact our fundraising team email fundraising@mstrust.org.uk or call the fundraising team on 01462 476707.