Currently there are no studies linking alcohol consumption to an increased risk of developing MS, but alcohol could affect you differently than someone who does not have MS. Symptoms like imbalance and lack of coordination, can temporarily worsen after even just one drink. Alcohol is also irritating to the bladder and will increase urinary urgency and frequency. It also depresses the central nervous system and can interfere with certain medications that are commonly used to manage MS symptoms.
Alcohol consumption can also increase your risk for other health conditions (comorbidities), like cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, which could worsen your MS. It’s important to discuss your alcohol consumption honestly with your healthcare team.
Smoking and exposure to secondary smoke from other people increases the risk of developing MS and MS progression. People with MS who smoke tend to experience more disease activity and increased disability. Quitting smoking can help reduce the rate of disability progression. In addition, smoking can disrupt the body’s ability to process some MS
disease-modifying therapies, making them less effective. Smoking also contributes to other health conditions, such as lung and heart disease, and a shortened lifespan in people with MS.
You can make an impact on your MS if you stop smoking. Cessation of smoking will delay your time to transition to secondary progressive MS. The National Institutes of Health provides resources to help quit smoking. Visit smokefree.gov or call 800-QUITNOW (800-784-8669).