When you’re managing the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), it’s natural that you might find there are times you feel down. If you notice you’re getting depressed, let your doctor know. He’ll help you get the support and treatment you need to get back on track.
The Link Between MS and Depression
Anyone dealing with too much stress or a tough situation might have depression. So it’s easy to understand how the long-term physical symptoms of multiple sclerosis can bring on changes in your mood.
But MS itself might also cause depression. The disease may destroy the protective coating around nerves that helps the brain send signals that affect mood.
Depression is also a side effect of some the drugs that treat multiple sclerosis, such as steroids and interferon.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
When you have depression, you may get sad or irritable, lose energy, and stop enjoying things that you used to love. You might also feel hopeless or worthless.
Some other symptoms you may have are:
- Trouble concentrating
- Uncontrollable crying
- Hard time making decisions
- Urge to sleep a lot
- Trouble falling or staying asleep at night
- Aches and pains you can’t explain
- Upset stomach and digestive problems
- Low sex drive or other sexual problems
- Headaches and Migraines
- Change in appetite that causes weight loss or gain
Some people who are depressed may have thoughts of death or suicide, or even attempt suicide.