PICKING THE BEST DMT FOR YOU
Being diagnosed with MS was overwhelming and there is no other way to put it. You are diagnosed with this disease which has NO cure! Quite a bit to absorb, to say the least. After being diagnosed, the next thing the neurologist wants to speak about is treatment methods. There are DMTs, or disease modifying therapies, that MS patients can take to help reduce relapses and improve the long-term outlook of their MS condition. My neurologist expressed how important it was to get on a DMT right after being diagnosed. I was sent home with a bunch of things to read and her recommendation on a DMT to begin. Ultimately, I did go with her recommendation after doing some research and it has been helpful and beneficial for me. I have had no new lesions or relapses since starting my DMT, which is great! I strongly believe in my DMT, as well as some alternative methods.
I did not fully know of all the different types of DMTs at first. Infusions were the only option my neurologist provided me with.
I did not fully know of all the different types of DMTs at first. Infusions were the only option my neurologist provided me with. But after learning more and researching more, I found out about different types of DMTs and some alternative methods people use. I find very interesting the different avenues individuals take to manage their symptoms and treat their MS and how it works for them.
There are three common DMT options to manage MS:
Injectables: These are given as a shot either into your muscles or beneath you skin.
Oral: Taking a pill however often it is required.
Infusions: These are given through a needle placed in your vein at a healthcare facility.
Although infusions are great for me, there are many others who don’t care for needles. So weighing the pros and cons is important for selecting your DMT avenue. There are many different drugs on the market that fall under each option.
I have come across many individuals who do not take any DMT at all. I don’t think this avenue is for everyone and I highly recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before doing this. Although this is not something I currently do, I found the following alternative methods interesting:
Diet and Exercise: Following strict dietary guidelines and work out routines.
A Holistic approach: Using different self-care methods, such as meditation, cupping, acupuncture, psychotherapy, massages and other stress-reduction approaches.
Supplements: Using different vitamins and herbs.
Cannabis: Using medical-marijuana or things containing it (brownies, drinks, etc.)
Moving forward with your MS care is solely up to you and your healthcare provider, but mainly YOU. Consult with your doctor and do lots of independent research. We must advocate for ourselves. If there is something you are interested in or DMT you want more information on, speak up and let your neurologist know. It can also be beneficial to ask around. Reach out to your fellow sisters in MS and members of MS advocacy groups, like We Are ILL, and ask them what they’re doing. How does it affect them and is it helpful? Overall, we have to do what’s best for us and our health. Do your research and make the best decision for you.
