Brain health
What is brain health?
Brain health refers to the ability to remember, learn, plan, concentrate and maintain a clear, active mind.
In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages tissue in the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system). This results in lesions that can be seen on a MRI scan.
The brain can compensate for some of this damage by rerouting signals or adapting healthy areas of the brain to take on new functions. This capacity is known as ‘neurological reserve’ or ‘brain health’.
These inbuilt repair mechanisms can explain why disease activity may be invisible during the early stages of MS.
Why is brain health important?
About half of all people with MS will have problems with aspects of thinking at some time, perhaps their memory, attention span or concentration. These symptoms are referred to as cognitive problems.
Taking steps to maximise brain health can help protect against cognitive decline, and can help people to maintain a good quality of life as they get older.
How can I keep my brain as healthy as possible?
There are a number of things you can do to lead a ‘brain-healthy’ lifestyle. These include:
- Keeping as fit and active as you can through regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Keeping your mind active through reading, creative activities, or puzzles such as sodoku and crosswords
- Avoiding smoking
- Limiting how much alcohol you drink
- Continuing to take any other medicines that your doctor has prescribed
Find out more
- Staying Smart a dedicated website about cognitive difficulties in MS
- Cognition and cognitive symptoms - A-Z of MS
- Exercises for people with MS
- Lifestyle choices
- Which leisure activities can help memory in MS? - MS research update
- MS Brain Health website
- Brain health: a guide for people with MS
References
- Brain health: time matters in multiple sclerosis Oxford: Oxford PharmaGenesis Ltd; 2015. Full report
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