Questions To Ask Your Healthcare Provider After an MS Diagnosis

A new MS diagnosis can feel overwhelming, and it’s natural to have many questions about what lies ahead.  Understanding your diagnosis and learning how to manage MS early on can make a big difference in your care and quality of life.  Below are some questions to ask your healthcare team as you begin this journey. 

What Type of MS Do I Have?

There are several types of MS, including relapsing-remitting, secondary progressive, primary progressive, and clinically isolated syndrome.  Each type behaves differently and knowing which one you have helps guide treatment choices and expectations for disease progression.  Ask your provider to explain how your type of MS may influence your care plan. 

How Will I Know When I Am Having a Relapse/Exacerbation?

A relapse, or flare up, is an event when new neurological symptoms appear or existing ones worsen for more than 24 hours, without another cause such as an infection or overheating. 

Ask your provider: 

• What signs should I look for? 

• When should I contact the clinic? 

• How are relapses treated, and when are steroids or other treatments needed? 

Are There Any Dietary Recommendations or Restrictions?

There is no single “MS diet,” but balanced nutrition supports brain and overall health.  Ask your provider or dietitian about: 

• Following a Mediterranean style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats 

• Limiting processed foods, saturated fats, and excess sugar 

• Maintaining vitamin D and hydration levels   

Your provider can also help tailor recommendations based on your other health conditions. 

Are There Any Physical or Lifestyle Restrictions?

Physical activity is highly encouraged for most people with MS. Exercise helps with fatigue, strength, and mood, and can and should be tailored to your individual needs. 

Ask: 

• Which exercises are safe for me? 

• Are there activities I should avoid during a relapses? 

• Can I work with a physical or occupational therapist to build a program that fits my needs? 

Your provider can also help with guidance on heat sensitivity, rest, and pacing your energy levels. 

Should I Be Taking Any Vitamins or Supplements?

Many MS specialists recommend vitamin D supplementation, as low levels are linked to increased disease activity.  Ask your provider: 

• What is my vitamin D level? 

• Do I need other supplements such as B12, magnesium, or omega-3’s?   

Always check before starting the supplements to avoid interactions with your medications.

What Should I Know About Family Planning and MS?

If you are considering pregnancy now or in the future, it is important to discuss family planning early.  Ask your provider: 

• Is it safe to become pregnant while on my MS medication? 

• How should I plan to stop or switch treatment before conception? 

• Will my MS affect my ability to have a healthy pregnancy or delivery? 

• Does having MS increase the chance my child will develop the disease? 

Most women with MS have a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby, and planning with your MS team ensures the safest approach. 

What Can I Do To Slow or Minimize Disease Progression?

The most effective step is starting and staying on a disease modifying therapy (DMT) recommended by your neurologist.  In addition, discuss how you can manage stress, sleep, and mental health. Healthy lifestyle choices and adherence to treatment play a big role and long-term outcomes, so avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and maintaining consistent MRI monitoring will support your long-term health. 

It is okay to not have all the answers right away.  Living with MS is a journey, and your healthcare team is there to support you in every step of the way.  Keeping open communication and asking questions will help ensure that your care aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and values.

References

1. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Relapses, Exacerbations, and Flare-ups. Retrieved from: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/managing-ms/treating-ms/managing-relapses — Defines what a relapse/exacerbation is in MS.   
2. MS Trust. Relapsing Remitting MS Explained. Retrieved from: https://www.mstrust.org.uk/a-z/relapsing-remitting-ms — Description of RRMS and relapse criteria (24+ hours, absence of infection/fever).   
3. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Diet & Nutrition for Multiple Sclerosis. Retrieved from: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/managing-ms/living-with-ms/diet-exercise-and-healthy-behaviors/diet-nutrition — Guidance on healthy diet for MS (“no single MS diet”, importance of balanced nutrition).   
4. Rush University Medical Center. The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Managing Multiple Sclerosis. Retrieved from: https://www.rush.edu/news/role-diet-and-lifestyle-managing-multiple-sclerosis — Evidence that diet & exercise support symptom management and possibly disease mechanisms.   
5. PMC (open access). “Exercise prescription for patients with multiple sclerosis.” Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America, 2016. — Review article showing recommendations for exercise and physical activity in MS.   
6. Mass General Brigham. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Diet – Foods to Eat & Avoid. Retrieved from: https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/multiple-sclerosis-diet — Commentary on inflammation, brain health, and healthy eating in MS.   
7. Kelly EE et al. (2023). “Multiple Sclerosis and Family Planning: A Survey Study of…” PMC — Survey study exploring family planning, pregnancy, MS disease activity implications.   
8. Can Do MS. Your Guide to Diet and Nutrition. Retrieved from: https://cando-ms.org/resource/your-guide-to-diet-and-nutrition/ — Practical guide for diet, weight management and lifestyle in MS.