Thouhghts from MS'ers: dealing with Invisible Illness

[GuitarRox]

A family member has MS.  She says that she hates that it feels like an invisible illness in that no one knows she has it and doesn't understand her limitations.  It's very frustrating to her.  How do other's feel about that and cope with it?

[supermum_ms]

Hi and welcome,

A lot of MS symptoms are invisible to others, one of the most common comments pwMS hear when they mention MS to people is "but you look so good" and if your having a bad day it really can be frustrating....each pwMS has a unique combination of issues, fatigue is a big problem that limits what most MSers can do on top of everything else your dealing with.

Knowing your not alone helps, venting with other MSers when your having a bad day helps, laughing with other MSers about the weird and bizarre that has become your normal helps, talking to a counsellor helps...

I hope that helps answer your question.....JJ

[GuitarRox]

Thanks for that.  I guess I was referring to suffering in silence without anyone giving you any credit for what you are going through because they can't 'see' it.  It's not obvious.  KInd of like when you hear a parent of a child with a neurological issue verses a physical handicap.  Wouldn't wish either on anyone but something that is apparent to the outside world seems to get more help and empathy.  ??  Maybe not.

But I agree that support and caring people going through the same thing can be liberating and a great comfort.