This site is intended for people living with MS in the UK and members of the general public.
This is a non-promotional disease awareness campaign developed and funded by Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Limited.

MS can shift in subtle ways - notice what's changed over time. 

About MS
MS is characterised by inflammatory and neurodegenerative processes. In MS, the body’s own immune system attacks the neurons, causing damage to their protective coating called myelin. There are a wide range of clinical symptoms, including problems with vision, movement and sensation, fatigue, pain and cognitive impairment. The causes of MS are still unknown but the understanding of the disease is constantly improving, helping to advance treatment and enabling patients to live a more normal life.

Everyone experiences Multiple Sclerosis (MS) differently. And over time, your symptoms can change in subtle ways. 

Even small shifts in how you're living or feeling may be important, and shouldn't be seen as a normal part of MS. They could be a sign your condition is evolving. 

Noticing any changes, and sharing them with your doctor, can help you. 

This page has been developed to help you decide whether it's worth raising a change with your doctor. 

Tools to help you prepare for an appointment

 

You know your MS best.
If you're noticing any changes, start a conversation with your doctor today.

Would you consider starting a conversation with your doctor?

Is my MS changing?

MS doesn't always give a clear signal when it's evolving, so it's important to take a moment to reflect and listen to your body. Asking yourself a few questions can give you a clear view of how MS is affecting you. Over time, you may notice subtle changes in fatigue, cognition, mobility, or bladder and sexual function. Don't push changes in your MS to the back of your mind. Your care team expects you to talk about them, so make a quick note of any you want to mention. Remember, you're not alone in raising them.
Person working in a laboratory or technical environment

Do you often find yourself struggling to find the right word, or losing your train of thought when talking?

People with rainbow socks sitting on chairs in a waiting room

Do you need more breaks, reminders of little adjustments just to get through the day?

Two people sitting and talking on steps at sunset

Have you been turning down plans or invitations more often because you're not sure how you'll feel?

Family enjoying tea together outdoors at a wooden table

When choosing what to do, are you choosing what's easiest, rather than what you really feel like?


If you've noticed changes in how you're living or feeling - even small ones - you 
should mention them to your doctor or MS nurse.

Would you consider starting a conversation with your doctor?

 

 

MS support and resources

MS can be difficult to talk about. These resources have been created to help you organise your thoughts, remember changes you want to mention, and support open, structured conversations with your doctor, so you can discuss what matters most to you.
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My MS Checklist

A short checklist designed to help you prioritise what's important in your MS management and care plan.
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My MS workbook

A comprehensive journal to help you and your care partner prepare for discussions with your doctor ahead of your next appointment.

For more information please visit:

MS Together

MS Trust

Would you consider starting a conversation with your doctor?
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