Smoking's impact on Multiple Sclerosis: An examination of the effects of tobacco use on this neurological disorder.
Smoking has been found to have significant negative effects on Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. People with MS who smoke are at a higher risk of developing secondary progressive MS, a more severe form of the disease, compared to non-smokers. This risk is three to four times higher for smokers with MS [1].
Smoking also accelerates disease progression, leading to earlier disability. Furthermore, it increases the risk of cognitive impairment in MS, worsening difficulties with thinking and memory, which affects up to 70% of people with MS [1].
However, there is good news for those with MS who are smokers. Quitting smoking can improve the course of MS by slowing disease progression and enhancing quality of life. Giving up smoking is one of the most impactful lifestyle changes for people with MS to help manage their condition better [1].
There are several methods available to help people quit smoking successfully. In-person or telephone specialized counseling can increase the chances of quitting successfully [1]. Similarly, the use of certain medications, such as bupropion SR and varenicline, can also increase the chances of quitting [1]. Nicotine replacement therapy, such as nicotine gum or patches, can also be effective [1].
Specialized self-help material can also aid in quitting smoking successfully [1]. However, it's unclear how using electronic cigarettes may affect MS. While they can help with smoking cessation, their long-term health effects are not yet understood [1].
It's important to note that there is no scientific evidence that smoking cannabis to relieve MS symptoms has been studied for its effect on MS disease progression [1]. Furthermore, there is no evidence to support the idea that smoking is good for stress management in people with MS [1].
In conclusion, smoking worsens MS outcomes by increasing the chance and speed of progression, intensifying cognitive decline, and promoting related health risks. Stopping smoking can positively influence disease trajectory and symptom burden for people living with MS [1][3]. If you are a smoker with MS, seeking help to quit could significantly improve your health and quality of life.
[1] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2019). Smoking and MS. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/NationalMSSociety/media/MSNationalFiles/Brochures/Brochure-Smoking-and-MS.pdf [2] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2019). Managing MS: Lifestyle and Self-Care. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/NationalMSSociety/media/MSNationalFiles/Brochures/Brochure-Managing-MS-Lifestyle-and-Self-Care.pdf [3] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2019). Cardiovascular Health and MS. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/NationalMSSociety/media/MSNationalFiles/Brochures/Brochure-Cardiovascular-Health-and-MS.pdf
- For individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) managing their chronic diseases, quitting smoking is a contextual health-and-wellness goal that could significantly improve their prognosis.
- Despite widespread use, there's no scientific evidence supporting the idea that smoking cannabis (cbd) has a positive impact on managing MS symptoms or slows disease progression.
- In the realm of fitness-and-exercise and mental-health, engaging in regular exercise and practicing stress management techniques can be beneficial to individuals with MS, but smoking is not suggested as a means to alleviate stress.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing chronic diseases. People with MS are advised to follow a balanced diet for optimal health outcomes.
- In the medical-conditions context, it's crucial to consider chronic diseases such as MS when making decisions about retargeting healthcare services and tailoring treatments for more effective outcomes.
- Neurological-disorders like MS and their associated complications can be better managed through organized health-and-wellness programs that focus on smoking cessation, exercise, nutrition, and mental-health support.
