How can cognitive issues in MS be managed effectively?

Question

Hello doctor,

My brother-in-law, aged 45, was diagnosed with MS and struggles with strange cognitive temporal distortions. Time perception feels completely unpredictable, minutes feel like hours, and hours feel like seconds. As a project manager, these temporal disruptions make professional scheduling impossible. Is this a typical MS-related cognitive symptom?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns, and I want to assure you that I am here to help.

Cognitive impairment is a common and devastating manifestation of multiple sclerosis (MS). Although disease-modifying therapies have been effective in reducing relapse rates in MS, these treatments are ineffective in addressing cognitive dysfunction. As such, alternative treatment approaches to mitigate cognitive problems are urgently needed.

Cognitive rehabilitation and exercise training have been identified as potential solutions for MS-related cognitive issues. However, cognitive dysfunction is still often considered poorly managed in MS patients. While cognitive changes typically progress slowly over time, MS relapses can result in sudden worsening of both cognitive and physical problems, which usually improve as the relapse ends.

The earlier cognitive problems are identified, the easier it becomes to develop effective strategies to manage them. Smaller issues are always easier to work around than larger ones. It is advisable to consult a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive care, which includes a consultant neurologist, a consultant ENT (ear, nose, and throat specialist), a consultant psychiatrist, and a psychotherapist.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.