Sleep disorders in multiple sclerosis and what you can do about them

Multiple sclerosis, also briefly called MS, is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the central nervous system. The disease is also often referred to as the "disease of many faces" because the manifestation of symptoms can vary greatly. MS can progress very differently. Those affected usually speak of various relapses in which symptoms occur and the health condition worsens.

What happens in multiple sclerosis?

In MS, the immune system attacks the body's own tissues. This leads to inflammation that attacks the protective sheath (also called myelin) of the nerve fibers. This causes communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body. Ultimately, the disease can lead to permanent damage or deterioration of nerve function.

How does MS manifest?

The signs and symptoms of MS are very diverse and depend on the extent of nerve damage and which nerves are affected. Very typical for the disease is that the course occurs in various relapses. Some people experience severe functional impairments in the body during relapses, while other affected individuals can experience long periods of remission without new symptoms. The first signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis can differ from patient to patient and vary greatly over the course of the disease, depending on where the affected nerve fibers are located. The symptoms often affect movement, leading to numbness or weakness of the limbs. Uncontrolled trembling, lack of coordination, and an unsteady gait are also among the symptoms. Visual problems are also common, accompanied by partial or complete loss of vision. Many affected individuals also describe slurred speech, frequent fatigue, dizziness, and tingling or pain in parts of their body as occurring symptoms. Accompanying the symptoms of MS, affected people report sleep disturbances due to pain in the limbs. Mood swings and depression can also occur as a result of the limitations on life.

What is the cause of MS?

The cause of multiple sclerosis is currently unknown. It is considered an autoimmune disease in which the body's own immune system attacks its own tissue. In the case of MS, this malfunction of the immune system destroys the fatty substance that surrounds and protects the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord (myelin). When the protective myelin is damaged and the nerve fiber is exposed, the messages transmitted along this nerve fiber can be slowed or blocked. It is unclear why MS develops in some people and not in others. A combination of genetics and environmental factors seems to be responsible.

Sleep disorders in multiple sclerosis

People with multiple sclerosis have a higher risk of sleep problems. They report twice as often about poorer sleep quality and three times as often about disturbed sleep. Although it can be difficult to sleep with multiple sclerosis, there are solutions that can help. Adjustable beds can facilitate changing sleep positions or getting out of bed. With bed rails, grab bars, and cushions, people with MS can be protected from falls and supported when changing positions or getting out of bed. Waterproof mattresses can also provide people with MS a clean and more comfortable sleeping environment.

MS and inner restlessness

Many affected people report persistent inner restlessness, anxiety, and negative thoughts that repeatedly revolve around the course of the disease. Almost all affected individuals worry about new relapses, worsening of symptoms, and also fears of death. Relatives of affected persons also increasingly worry about their loved ones and the impact of the disease on everyday life.

Weighted blankets in multiple sclerosis

Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for patients with multiple sclerosis. Various therapeutic approaches can, however, help to accelerate recovery from relapses, alter the course of the disease, and control symptoms. Some people with MS benefit from weighted blankets. Weighted blankets can soothe the symptoms of restless legs syndrome and promote sleep in insomnia. But persistent anxiety, inner restlessness, and negative thoughts can also be reduced with the help of the therapy blanket. The pressure of the blanket on the body leads to an improvement in sensory processing and often to a positive self-perception. The resulting deep pressure can thus positively influence sensitivity, sensory processing, and acceptance. The release of the happiness hormone serotonin and the sleep hormone melatonin is promoted when the blanket is applied. At the same time, the cortisol level (the so-called stress hormone) is lowered.