Speech therapy can help with the difficulties with communication and eating that some patients experience. Brainstem lesions are the source of motor and sensory problems of the tongue and oral and facial musculature. For those with intractable aspiration, feeding by gastrostomy tube is required. Surgical treatment Surgical treatment plays only a small role in managing MS symptoms. These approaches are extreme and have serious consequences, such as muscle wasting, that must be weighed against the potential benefits.
Few diseases have such a wide range of symptoms.
Some patients can live a nearly normal life, while some progress to disability and need assistance with ADLs. Most fall somewhere in between. Because MS is a chronic disease and has so many aspects to its care, coordination of the care plan and patient-family education by nursing case managers are critical. Many MS patients are on multiple medications, and interactions need to be understood. People with relapsing MS can often maintain an active exercise program and should be encouraged to do so, avoiding overheating and overexertion.