Multiple Sclerosis Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment is seen in over half of people with multiple sclerosis. In this video I review factors that can contribute to multiple sclerosis brain fog, ways to assess cognition, and tips to improve thinking and memory. If you have questions related to Multiple Sclerosis memory loss and other MS cognitive issues, then start watching this video!
In this video, I review factors that can worsen cognition in MS, 3 helpful ways to assess cognition in MS, and 6 easy tips to immediately optimize your thinking and memory!
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LEARN about MS with me, Aaron Boster MD! I started this channel to help my own MS patients learn between clinic visits. I use easy-to-understand language to provide accurate and approachable Multiple Sclerosis education. So, if you’re impacted by MS and want to up your game, make sure to SUBSCRIBE to my channel right now!
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These videos do not provide medical advice and are for informational/educational purposes only. The videos are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or seen in any of our videos.

[@popcorn682]

Hi Dr. B! Another thing that I’ve found helpful in remembering what I need to do is to utilize the apps on my phone. I always have my phone but don’t always have enough room for my notepad whenever I’m out and about. So, I utilize my alarms (you can specify the labels in there), the calendar, and the notepad. I’ve tried to use the reminder app, but it doesn’t remind me of anything, so I’ve had to make it work using the rest of the apps. Thank you for another great video!

[@AaronBosterMD]

fantastic recommendation popcorn! I agree that the smart phone can be super useful to keep notes and set reminders. Thank you for watching and thank you for sharing this great tip!

[@cmedina238]

Yes, I have a little difficulty writing these days so using apps has been great! I have also been recording my meetings to ensure I am not missing anything. Just have to let everyone in meeting know they are being recorded...lol . Thanks for this video Dr. Executive functioning has become an issue for me. I am taking steps to work through this and your video is timely.

[@AaronBosterMD]

👍👍

[@morillosky]

I have had to instale an app to call record because the phone conversation is too fast.

[@AaronBosterMD]

does that help?

[@sbc279]

I must say that, after over 30 years of having MS, I’m blessed that my cognitive skills have not deteriorated. Being a software engineer requires a great deal of brain power. My best tip I can give to my fellow MS victims, is ATTITUDE. Easily said, I know. But try to remember that you ARE better off than someone else, who would gladly switch positions with you. I have MS, but I’m one of the luckiest people alive... I have a wonderful family, a job, and Dr. Boster as my neurologist, for starts. And you? Count your blessings. You are great!

[@AaronBosterMD]

My brother from another mother! #WeHaveMS

[@RicardoManuelArana]

Wish me luck Stephen. Last year I got MS and back in 2019 I got a mention for my skills at my local college and I even was selected for a masterclass. Now have you experienced any brain fog. Maybe briefly?

[@jedemrich5383]

I hear you. Attitude is all!

[@ehjohn027]

I'm in tears watching this video. I'm still in the process of being diagnosed even after over 2 decades of symptoms which are only getting worst. I have seen two Neurologists which one told me he believed I had MS but later came back and said my lesions on my MRI didn't line up to what he felt was MS. Now my MRI is showing that I most likely have IIH as well. I continue to fall, trip because my feet want move, walks side to side like I'm drunk, often fatigue, nausea, hand tremors, neuropathy, numbness in hands lower legs and feet, headaches, brain fog, tightness in my chest which I was hospitalized in 2013 for almost a week because I thought I was having a heart attack and the hospital thought it was my heart too, but my heart is fine etc. My worst fear for years is forgetting my love ones and my precious childhood memories. To watch this video was hope for me. It's encouraging me to not give up and continue to search and find a Dr who will listen and stop seeing me as a unique case as many drs have actually told me. Thank you so much.

[@borntobemild-]

It does get better ❤

[@ew4243]

I write detailed 3 day meal plans (including ingredients). I first started doing this because I would catch myself unintentionally mixing recipes up (creating interesting hybrids) or planning a meal to use a particuliar ingredient and then forget to use said ingredient, or start preaparing a meal that I'd wanted to do the next day. Planning and writing things down and sticking to the plans helped greatly.

[@imsum1now]

HYDRATION & breathing. I stopped getting frustrated @ not remembering a word. Deep breath & big sip of water. Not 100 %, but free & non caustic. Another great video. Thank you.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Thanks for sharing!

[@jenniferpacker1900]

I was just diagnosed yesterday. I'm feeling pretty lost and confused,i think your tips are really going to be a guideline on how to start this new life today,thank you. 1.Take a nap 2. Get a notebook 😊 Thanks again.

[@_lil_lil]

The suggestions sound very similar to suggestions to work with symptoms for ADHD-inattentive type fog. I won't pretend I know what MS feels like (I'm learning this info to be more supportive to a friend) but having severe ADHD- inattentive type, the things you described are all too familiar, losing keys, forgetting things easily, slow completion of tasks, needing naps to function, trouble with sleep routine... I just think that's fascinating.

[@Haghenveien]

Years ago, when I was learning english and my vocabulary was still very limited I was tought to give a description everytime I didn't know a word. For example, If I didn't know the word "Juice" I would say " This is a liquid that it's made out of fruit. Many people like to have this at breakfast, specially the one that it's made out of oranges. It has vitamins and it's usually sweet" So, now every time I can't remenber a word, which happens quite frequently, I use this technic. Most of the times, it helps me to remember the actual word, but even if it doesn't, I can at least transmit the idea to the person I'm talking to. And I apply this for other things as well, instead of trying to actually remenber, I try to use deduction and logic.

[@AaronBosterMD]

That is very clever Haghenveien! Thank you for sharing this great idea! #WeHaveMS

[@Petra44YT]

Cool! ... You may laugh, but sometimes I can't remember the German word for something right away, even though German is my native language and I live in Germany. But what I've done at time is take the English word and look up the German word in a dictionary :-D

[@user-iu9gj8yg9s]

I once forgot the word “ketchup” and described it to my husband as “that red stuff you put on hamburgers”!

[@giftboutiq]

I also want to mention that I was always severely depressed but with the Aderall, I haven’t been depressed! My cognitive function has improved significantly.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Glad this has helped! More energy = better mood oftentimes. I actually made a video on this topic. I will publish it in the next month or so!

[@John283T]

When I was 18 yrs old I became so depressed that I quit working and almost never left my bedroom. Back then, Adderall like drugs were used for dieting. I had some left over from my last diet so I took them again and within 2 days I was out of my bedroom. In the next week I was working again. The only problem with Adderall is some people will abuse it. Provigil & Nuvigil do almost the same thing but they don't make you want to abuse them. But I don't disagree with Dr. Boster, more energy usually does equal a better mood. It's definitely true.

[@claudettes9697]

Sir, I'm in tears, because I wish I had a Dr like you 6 years ago. He just stacked med apon med, didn't explain anything, I gained 60#, and I didn't really walk for 2.5 years. I'm off meds, and scared of Drs, but have an appt w a new neurologist next month, and walking w/o a walker. I medicate w cannabis and food. Good food will save lives! Walnuts are anti-inflammatory, who knew? I had to detox off my meds two years ago, and its getting better. I know my med combo messed w my cognition, because its getting better. I remember being curious, again, and it was amazing! I feel like I'm constantly jiggling the keys to a file cabinet in my head. My friends understand when I pause, because maybe something jiggled lose. 🤣🤣🤣 It takes a lot to learn now, for things to stick, but its about adjustment, and so worth it. Its important to know how you learn. I remember sitting in front of people, hearing noise, and not gathering what was said. I started to hide. Don't hide, tell people what's going on, they want to understand. Thank you so much for your videos! I'm going to give this new Dr a chance, thanks. 🤗 But I'm bringing a friend. 🤣🤣

[@AaronBosterMD]

hang in there Claudette!

[@lw5682]

My neuro has not once assessed my cognition. Sometimes I feel so frustrated and think that my MS is under-cared for by my doc. My last appointment lasted about 10 minutes. I felt so crappy afterwards. My cognition usually slips during the day at work as my job is very mentally demanding. I get to the point where I feel like my brain is short circuiting and I can barely handle any type of usual life stressor. Anyways, I am just venting as I had a bad day with my cognition today. I live about 4 hours from your clinic and sometimes wonder if I should make the drive. But then I don't think I could mentally handle that! Thanks for listening.

[@angelablair3473]

I am right there with you. Seems we are going through the same thing & might have the same doctor. Prayers my friend. 🙏🏼💗

[@Youremyboyblue_]

I hope you got a new doctor

[@John283T]

L W, Maybe you can get a ride to Dr. Boster's office. I can tell you from experience that Provigil, Nuvigil and Adderall will improve your mental and physical functioning. The problem is finding a doc who knows and believes this. The 3 meds I mentioned make all the difference in the world with MS.

[@lbaker9251]

Hi Dr. B! Thank you for the informative video. After being diagnosed with MS 9 months ago, I learned that I wasn't losing my mind and just needed to implement some rules for myself. Rule 1.) If using the oven or stove top an alarm (attached to me) must always be set. A must after leaving bread toasting in the oven while I left the house to go grocery shopping. Multitasking is not my friend! Rule 2.) If there is running water, an alarm must be set. A must after refilling the pond outside ALL night. I work in research in an academic setting and students, residents, and faculty often need my help. I had to set guidelines up for everyone around me as well. I always want to help but I realized I cannot answer questions on the fly, well not answer them appropriately. I ask people to schedule meetings ahead of time with me and to shoot me an email of what needs to be discussed so that I have time to put my thoughts together and write some ideas down. Often I don't have answers at the conclusion of the meeting but I have notes and I get the appropriate answers to them later once I have had appropriate time to process. This is a work in progress but it is getting better. I also have my mornings dedicated to things that are more cognitively taxing, e.g. when writing, reviewing papers, drafting budgets or contracts, I always set time aside in the mornings when my mind is fresh. I know I only have approximately 3 good hours and then I have to switch to something less taxing. And last but not least, you will never see me walking around without a notepad in my hand. Everything is written down. Sometimes I email myself reminders but it gets written down. I think the very act of writing it down helps to remember things but If you can't recall that item, it's okay because it is written down.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Thank you for sharing L!

[@stephaniecolon702]

Omg is this why I can't do anything

[@j.svensson7652]

I park in the same row every time. I chant a statement when I do something that I know I'll likely forget "I paid the water bill I paid the water bill" I clap my hands or pat the table as I chant it (I'm always alone so nobody thinks I'm crazy) it's a mnemonic device that helps. I keep a pin board on the front room wall and pin important things to it and I use my phone calendar alarm to alert me to events I'd probably forget. I play puzzle games daily to help keep my brain as sharp as I can. I try to learn new things daily to help stimulate that mess upstairs.

[@AaronBosterMD]

smart ideas! TY for sharing J!

[@micheleanderson3158]

I’ve never been given a cognitive test even though I struggle & have request one. It is a shame all drs are not as thorough. Thanks for the information! Thanks

[@hardcorgamer007]

Metformin, Intermittent fasting, Curcumin, flaxseed and fish oil, blueberry extract helped me a LOT in MS symptoms, especially the crippling, volcano like anxiety that impaired my life and also heavy fatigue. Thank you so much Doctor aaron. You are awesome, God bless you.

[@1970karenleah]

As a Respiratory therapist that works in sleep Medicine make sure to get treatment for sleep apnea.

[@AaronBosterMD]

amen!

[@giftboutiq]

I was prescribed Aderall recently and I have to say it worked so,good I could cry. No brain fog at all. No side effects at all.

[@AaronBosterMD]

wonderful!!

[@syazwanimohdsabri91]

Wow, it's 2 years ago but I'm watching it now. I actually forgot husband's face for a while in 2017. Now I have mild brain atrophy. This helps make sense of everything. My Tip: Use a note taking app on the phone just so you'd remember things you'll most likely forget. Side note: I put my husband's face on my phone screen so I'll remember how he looks like. Now I don't need that anymore.

[@markjewell6080]

Thank you Dr Boster for your videos. They a e so helpful and inspiring. I use a couple of things to help my brain fog. 1) I try to schedule any important meetings in the mornings. By mid - late afternoon, my brain is often too foggy to be productive. 2) I use my cell phone calendar, to-do lists and other apps to keep me focused. 3) I have clear routines at home and work. I try not to allow things to impact or change my routines. 4) Crossword puzzles help keep my brain active in an enjoyable way.

[@LOLALASKA]

Hi doc! I have never met a doc who knows that Benadryl can cause restless legs. Have to know your tolerance level. They usually just give another drug for restless legs! I take doxipen for sleep. Works and never depressed. Win Win. Really enjoyed the MS V&N presentation. You rock! Lo the RN in Pcola.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Howdy Lo! Thanks for watching and thank you for attending MS V&N. That's a great organization and I enjoy working with them. Your comment about benadryl is super helpful, thank you for highlighting it!

[@connielarge6180]

HiBrian. I'm 73. Just saw your you tube. I want to say how well I've gotten through life doing what you suggest especially writing things down. I keep a special 4x6 book I call my medical book. I have 5+ Dr's now and I keep info for each. And want to encourage folks to do so. Thanks and will try to make time daily to listen to you . I'll consider yo< my 6th Dr. Lol Be well to all and listen to Brian. Connie

[@JoeD60]

I take a lot of naps, write notes to myself or journal. As I have done here with Google Docs or a few Microsoft products I edit what I want to say before I post in a comment section. What helps the most with getting things done is entering events in the calendar on my phone. The start of taking paint classes has been an absolute game changer with keeping my mind focused. No one needs to be a great artist. The instructor lets you paint any variation to what is being taught. Once you leave the classroom, creating layers of paint on canvas has proven a very effective way to prioritize everything else in life. Plus your artwork make great gifts that people can enjoy for a lifetime.

[@amym.5960]

I started using a bullet journal this year; it's been very helpful! I want to continue working on optimizing my diet.

[@shirlt5789]

I no longer drink alcohol. I don't smoke. I don't take any MS meds. Never have. Started with relapsing-remitting diagnosed at age 28. I am now almost 57. My cognition worsened extremely about 6 years ago. Couldn't do my job because of it. I was terrified it was early Alzheimers or other early dementia. My neurologist diagnosed secondary progressive MS at that time. Is it too late to start disease modifying meds now? Or is the damage already done? I try to sleep when I need to, including naps. If I am having brain fog, I write myself notes in a pad or on my phone. I always write reminders on my calender.....both phone and paper one on my fridge. I find if I am stressed about something, symptoms are worse for sure. Deep breathing, trying not to be too hard on myself when my memory fails or be humiliated when people make fun of my memory issues.

[@gregggregg1711]

How do you deal with MS and not take medications, doesnt it become unbearable? I have had ms for almost 13 years now and started on Rebiff injections right away. Please tell me how you deal with MS and use no medications!

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

No it IS NOT TOO LATE !

[@lorrainejohnson829]

Hi ive had rrms for 25 yrs now. Did injectables till i couldn't stand the shots anymore. Am not on dmt now but lost weight, walk my dogs daily and have dr appt next wk- wish me luck 😜

[@jerriesanders8138]

What I've been doing lately is when I have a thought about a matter I'm addressing it right then and there.. It helps to not forget so much.. I have ms and was diagnosed when I was about 30 yrs. Of age and I'm 62 now.. Cognitive and fatigue is what I've suffered mostly ...

[@AaronBosterMD]

Howdy Jerrie. Certainly worth talking to your doc about because there are lots that can be done to optimize ones thinking and memory!

[@shaunsarahadams4426]

Trying to explain cognitive impairment to a friend or family member? Show them this video and slow the playback speed down. Really helped me explain how I’m feeling.

[@scroogemacduck9826]

Dear Dr Boster, I have recently taken it upon myself to investigate the brain fog phenomenon .... and my research has led me to experiment with .... fasting. Over a period of 6 months I did 3 day fasts and noted that after a 3 day fast ... the brain fog lifted considerably and stayed like that for 2-3 weeks. I felt much more alert during that period. Granted 3 days with no food may not be easy for everyone ... but :) as I am not a foodie ... it really was easy for me. From my research, fasting uses up the processed sugars from our ingested food and once they are insufficient to supply the brain ... the body produces it's own sugars for the brain ....which is purer, better but limited in supply. BTW I have secondary progressive MS, which started as Relapsing and Remitting MS ... for the last 20+ years. Also ... I may have MS ... but it does not have ME.

[@alyssaolps5805]

The biggest thing here for me is depression. I can't remember the last time I was actually happy and not feeling miserable. I've fallen into some really bad depressions but always dug myself out to some mild ones but I'm ok with it because I'm not self harming myself. I feel one of these days I will finally be happy because I now know there was always something wrong with me and it wasn't always in my head. Well technically it was. Plus need to start carrying around a note pad.

[@bridgetgraham4565]

I agree with using your phone to leave reminders. I use Color Note to leave reminders and lists for myself. It's like having the old school Post It notes that I simply remove when the reminder is no longer needed. I use it for tasks such a running shopping lists and for planning my errand routes so I don't forget to make a stop. Great tip!

[@AaronBosterMD]

Howdy Bridget! Thank you for watching my video. I totally agree with you - post it notes are THE BOMB. My team leaves post it notes on my computer monitor at work to help remind me to do things all the time (and it works GREAT!).

[@terrydunlap5183]

Excellent suggestions. Reading through the comments that people made, one was to set a timer when something is on the stove. That one made me chuckle, because I've burned stuff more than once. The next tip was to set a timer while watering. I got right up because I had started a sprinkler, set a timer, but when the timer went off, I forgot what it was for. Ran outside to move the sprinkler. Saved by the video!

[@JimKlucar]

Thanks for doing this one. CI is my biggest fear with MS. My job is basically to sit down and think about hard math problems then make computers go solve them. My brain is my livelihood and I need it to work at its peak level!

[@AaronBosterMD]

Amen Jim! I agree maintaining cognition is SUPER DUPER IMPORTANT! Which of the techniques in the video might help you the most Jim?

[@seankressinger4361]

Hi to all from the UK and thanks for posting these videos and helping to break down some of the barriers that exist between patients and health-care professionals. I personally follow the OMS program and find much of the advice very similar. In particular the mindfulness aspect has slowly taught me that it's good to pause several times a day, breath and clear your mind. Once done (and it only needs to be for a minute or so) I tend to remember tasks/jobs that had slipped my mind. I can't recommend it highly enough. If you're in a situation where there seems to be too much going on, too many people/conversations or too much information to absorb- remove yourself if possible and give yourself a few moments of calm.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Howdy! That sounds like an awesome technique Sean, thank you for sharing. Do you have a link to the program so folks reading this can learn more about OMS by chance?

[@seankressinger4361]

Aaron Boster MD Of course I should have naturally included that! The website is: www.overcomingms.org

[@AaronBosterMD]

Thank you Sean! #WeHaveMS

[@bo6048]

Hello Dr. Boster😊 Thank you for your videos🍀! You present the information amazingly well; after 23 years of living with MS, now I finally understand what is happening and why and what to do about it. I am lucky I somehow found your post. As for cognition, I ensure that every day I eat a healthy diet, physically exercise however possible, I read and write (and grab every chance to talk without embarassment🤔) in foreign languages I speak, and I complete “brain games” - BrainHQ and Elevate. Using Duolingo and Coffee Break Languages podcasts is a fun way to practice foreign languages daily. I find all these things are fun and easy to stick to. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU DO 🌻☀️🥰

[@elysesteinmann-ci5vr]

For me I find sensory overload a problem, also the processing of information. I have addressed all other issues you discussed except naps which I shall incorporate in my daily life.

[@michaelfirestone7440]

I have used a notepad and pen for ever it helped me as a business owner, now more than ever. also I am big on routines (and I dislike change) immensely. It throws my daily life off. Example going to the bathroom #2. I have a daily routine I follow for breakfast. If I verge off the routine I miss my opportunity to eliminate that day, ( Like a doctor's appt. during my am routine, it throws me off. Thanks for sharing DOC...Hope other's learn from this as well ♥

[@billielewis5562]

Keeping a note book helped me tremendously in my employment, highly recommend it. I also keep lots of notes and schedules in my iPhone. Also pill boxes too, last night I took one to many pills, I didn’t use the pill box, won’t be doing that again!!

[@AaronBosterMD]

pill box = brillant! they are NOT for "old folks" they are for SMART FOLKS!

[@denisestewart1693]

Thank you so much for your videos. I’ve watched them for a long time, and repeat them as necessary.

[@AaronBosterMD]

You are so welcome!

[@newyorkdiva3]

I write everything down it helps me tremendously. Your videos are so helpful I'm so glad I found you. Thank you keep them coming.

[@patriciarivas5369]

Thank you doctor! I use my phone, try to take my naps and stay as active as I can. I decided to disclose to my coworkers of my disease. It’s difficult to go from a white collar, professional job to a part time minimum wage job.

[@AaronBosterMD]

I'm impressed by all that you're doing to maintain brain health! Go Patricia!

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

Nailed it Doc .

[@MsTubbytube]

mini naps have been helpful. When at home I try saying aloud what I am planning to do or what I am doing or what I am looking for, hearing the words helps me remember.

[@brittaroth3780]

Hello Dr. Boster, this video is great again! What I try to improve my cognition is crosswordpuzzles, not the easy ones in the newspapers, no I mean the good ones you buy in paper stores! I love that and it is killing waiting time at doctors' offices, too (;)) And I try to sing with the music I am listening to. I can't sing out loud anymore, which I could before, but I tra to whisper with the lyrics and this is a good training for my brain. AND: I am writing English posts on youtube! Ha! English is not my native language and so I am training my brain too! And I guess I am pretty good...... Thanks for your videos! I am loving the easy understandable language and the tips and tricks to dela with different issues from a view of a doctor! Thanks so much! Greetings from hot southern Germany (oh, the heat is killing me softly and slowly!!!) sincerely Britta

[@AaronBosterMD]

Howdy Britta! Thank you for watching this one! I love the idea of training your brain all these different ways. For those that dislike crosswords, I recommend sodoku puzzles. Have you ever tried those, just out of curiosity?

[@Petra44YT]

Oh, English is your second language, too? Fancy giving yourself a challenge? Try the free English crossword on boatloadpuzzles. I was a bit sceptical at first, having tried English crossword puzzles a couple of years back with not too much success. But I find these feasible. :-) Okay, I'm a translator, but have a look.

[@pandora8478]

Fantastic video. Thanks!

[@tinksspixiedust]

Exercise & notebook are my choices. I’m already working on the others.

[@giftboutiq]

Currently waiting for authorization for Tecfidera which my doc says has had phenomenal results.

[@AaronBosterMD]

right on giftboutiq!

[@sweetmali27]

I’m being evaluated for ms, one of my symptoms is episodes of short memory. I forget things frequently and it is very frustrating specially at work. I have to take notes so I don’t forget tasks. I have trouble sleeping and it doesn’t matter if I’m tired I just can’t sleep early, it’s hard. My face gets numb and also my tongue, my back hurts constantly, I’m having problems with balance, sometimes I can’t pronounce easily, also I can feel stinging sensation in various parts of my body. My neurologist decided to order another MRI but with contrast just to be sure if he has to refer me to an MS specialist. In the first MRI without contrast they found lesions and they are suggesting MS. Something makes me feel that it is MS but I’m scared of how bad it will affect me, I’m just 29 and I really don’t want to feel like I’m loosing control of my body. Your videos are helpful and very informative, thanks!

[@lorrainegarrett3715]

Love your segment thank you so much

[@ezaserrano4677]

Great video! I read a few pages of a book every day and try to keep a voice memo of my thoughts every few weeks. I find that expressing myself helps!

[@Liz_Langer]

Hi Dr. Boster, nice to know now where the brainfog is coming from. Now that I've started learning more about ms I can see that my neurologists in the past years have not been very forthcoming about ms. Anyhow I'm glad I know now. For me to make sure I don't forget my meds I mainly use my alarm clocks twice a day. Otherwise as of late I'm using the calender in my phone to mark appointments and I have one of those piles of notepapers on my desk where I write down stuff I need to remember. The most helpful thing to do though is exercise. I notice that I get a more clear head in my vacations when the weather is nice (warm) and I go out with my fiancee and take long walks and am out and about doing things most of the day.

[@jeffreygingold831]

Excellent discussion, thank you, Dr. Boster. For PWMS, I believe it all starts with Acknowledgement of your cognitive challenges, leading to a better understanding of what is happening to you, then reaching for the coping strategies that work best for you. These successful strategies are often easy to learn tactics from those who have struggled with MS cognitive difficulties, but have been there and done that to find cognitive techniques that work for them. Learn from these folks, I suggest.

[@gregggregg1711]

The note book idea is great! I will use this. My doctor will check me out when i have complaints but if nothing shows up on testing then she wont do anything else. I have had severe neck pain since 2017 and she says nothing shows up and lets it go, something is wrong and i feel it daily and the pain is only getting worse. Headaches, stiffness! Turning my head hurts when i try turning my head from side to side. But nothing is ever checked but a mri and then it just gets worse every year. Its like having a broken leg and being made to walk on it everyday.

[@suzannesesbreno2400]

Suzanne: Sudbury,Ontario,Canada/// I am all ears for this one Dr. Boster

[@claremartin8633]

Hi Dr B. Thank you so much for doing this video on cognition. For me it is one of my most upsetting problems and I don't feel there is enough out there on it so I have watched with great interest and will watch several more times as I do struggle to absorb the information! I've been putting off the diet and exercise for far too long now and not taking the sleep issue seriously so I really need to start investing some time in this and actually remembering to as silly as that sounds! ( I think the notepad may help as my mind just jumps from one thought to the next. ) Then hopefully I will see some improvement! Also I think my phone has too many apps loaded and I just get confused so I need to get into a ROUTINE with a smaller selection of apps! And maybe I'll get on better! I love your videos. Thank you for all of the time you give to helping those of us with ms. Big hugs from South Wales,U.K. xxx

[@AaronBosterMD]

Thank you for watching and thank yo for the wonderfully insightful comments Clare! #WeHaveMS (PS- Wales is on my bucket list!)

[@hackett1181]

Excellent!!! Great information. Thank you.☺️

[@cathlenethomas5522]

Hey Doc! I have a Notebook 4 phone, and I am always writing notes in my Snotes. Also, I have been called a Post It Note queen, my computer at wrk is covered with them. Great video!

[@AaronBosterMD]

#MSWarrior

[@maggiemae2585]

Naps really do help! I overdid it one weekend in June, and thankfully I had a few days in a row that I could rest during the day. I woke up feeling like a new woman. Unfortunately, I don't get the opportunity very often. Great video!

[@AaronBosterMD]

I'm telling ya, naps = secret weapon!

[@smmcb647]

Thanks for this video Dr B… I was diagnosed with MS six months ago but sleep has been a problem for much longer - I have Sleep Apnoea and wear a mouth guard device during sleep, but also suffer Insomnia which can make me feel really depressed. My last blood test showed I was vitamin B12 deficient and so I started taking B group vitamins before bed and it seems to have really helped! Depression is still a big thing, but I try to push through with exercise, then sit and rest in the sunshine and pat the cat. It helps!

[@gayaneabovian4367]

Thank you sooo much. I have been diagnosed with MS when I was 23, in 1999.

[@GreenHatemerald]

Thank you for creating these videos. It gives me more to think about and implement for my presentation on MS and music therapy next week!

[@AaronBosterMD]

Thanks fantastic to read! TY for sharing Kristen #WeHaveMS

[@LoveAshh.LongTime]

Watching this brings me to tears because this me! Why you couldn't have been my doctor especially when I was diagnosed back in 2013. My neurologist up and left all of his patients smh 🥺

[@Bubba242424242]

Thank you so much for explaining that to me. I had the surgery this past Wednesday and now, my family and friends can understand.

[@AaronBosterMD]

right on Larry

[@leekspinner]

Thank you so much! Clear and well-structured, you're a great professional! My friend is struggling with this and I'm happy to understand it better now

[@AaronBosterMD]

Glad I could help!

[@abbypaige6682]

This was a lot of help.🤗

[@AaronBosterMD]

I'm super glad to read that Abby!

[@Novastar314]

Wow..you are great. Thank you so much

[@AaronBosterMD]

You are very welcome

[@AmenAmenet]

I was diagnosed in '92. I've received 3 Master's degrees. I'm working on a doctorate now as well as having trouble getting enough continuous sleep. and my brain gets foggy at the worst times! When I'm doing homework! I'm taking turmeric pills, but so far, I haven't noticed any difference. My handwriting sucks, so I take my iPad to the Dr. with me and use it to set alarms. I've got 5 books on my desk, If I read on them first thing in the morning, I've used up a significant amount of brain power for the day. I'm gonna try to be more active tho I have paraplegia. i don't take DMD- not good for me.

[@erniejoel1234]

Can't thank you enough for these videos full of information for us MSers. My phone is of great help and is full of reminders notes and alarms. Developing good sleep hygiene helped me with my cognitive issues. And to answer the question since i've already have my phone i do the diet first. Again Thanks Dr. Boster.

[@AaronBosterMD]

YW Ernie!! #WeHaveMS

[@willowtree9082]

Thank you for this video,I haven't even been diagnosed yet, and am not likely to get that diagnosis any day soon because of the public health system waiting list in my country, my cognitive impairments are progressively worse as each week passes by waiting to be seen, so I can get on with slowing this down, I believe I have damage to the cerebellum because often I have to stop and actually say to my legs, right your going down steps, now lift your leg and step down and do this with each leg just to get down a few stairs, so my brain has lost that automatic movement of just doing it.

[@karenpny]

Thanks for the information. When I don’t get enough sleep, I’m super slow....thinking and processing.

[@AaronBosterMD]

YW Karen. Sleep is sometimes under-appreciated as a key element to optimizing cognition in MS. Do you find that a nap (which I call a secret weapon!) helps recharge your thinking and processing?

[@MrZimmmy]

Another informative video spoken in easy to understand language. My primary takeaways from the video are the importance of SLEEP/NAPS, and EXERCISE! The other factors are important but I’ve noticed that my cognitive functioning improves when I get a good night sleep. When I have a bad cognitive day, I will nap. Thanks for the tip! And, I use a pocket sized as my “peripheral brain.”

[@suzannesesbreno2400]

I've listened to all the video thank U 4 everything that U do Dr. Boster./ Well appreciated doc! !. first thing I took is that notepad first & foremost in my living thanks again never enough THANK YOU./ Suzanne fr. Sudbury,Ont.Canada

[@cementra2007]

Thanks Dr. Boster for this video. I couldn’t agree more on the importance of monitoring and treating depression to improve cognitive performance. With regards to your question: I’m pretty happy with how I use my phone to plan my day and week, organize my thoughts before an important meeting, and keep notes on the go. I’m not as good when it comes to dieting, but I’ll work on that.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Thank you for answering the QOTD Cementra! I think you'll find that when you clean up your diet you feel more energized and think more clearly!

[@msenit4lifepattylong76]

I use games to help with cognitive function. Things like candy crush & dots & co. on my phone or puzzles saduko, cross sums & matching games. Routines are a big help and my exercises are part of that, yet still I struggle greatly learning new things as well as thinking quietly. I guess I’m what you might call a verbal learner. I’ve come a long ways doing these types of things, but still have a long ways to go. Thanks for all the great videos, tips & tricks and everything else you do for the MS community! ❤️❤️

[@AaronBosterMD]

Howdy Patty and thank you for your ongoing support! I'm so glad that you find the videos helpful! #WeHaveMS

[@Scotty.Rosencrance]

And The MS Gym on FB is the worldwide go to fir MS specific exercise Trevor Wicken is THE GO-TO for improving any MS symptom. If cognitive improvement is what we want, then dealing with our depression (u are helping me deal with depression, THANK YOU) and doing MS specific exercise are the most important to me. Our brains are much clearer when we feel good physically, and doing all we can to take our bodies back makes no sense. Then we are giving ourselves our best chance

[@AaronBosterMD]

Wise words Scotty! Thank you for sharing!

[@vickiegray690]

Dr. Aaron I keep a list of things on the same day as my doctors appointment is scheduled on my iPhone. I just add to it as questions crop up because my iPhone is always with me. I even have it by my bed at night charging so I can easily add to my list. I know I wouldn’t remember the next morning. I also keep grocery lists and other lists On my iPhone because my iPhone is s always with me. Plus, I don’t have to remember to get my list before I leave home. Dr. Aaron I really appreciate your videos. Even 22 years post diagnosis I still have a million questions.

[@lorrainejohnson829]

Hi Dr B great info as ever! i do 45 mins of walking wit my 10 yr old dog daily and will get a notebook asap!

[@JJDiddley]

To help with memory and cognition, I like to compose music on my piano and I also study and learn new languages. As someone else mentioned, my cell phone is important for scheduling appts, documenting upcoming events, giving me reminders and also playing games that require the application of logic and critical thinking when I have time to play them.

[@AaronBosterMD]

What languages do you study? What kind of music do you like to compose?

[@stratcat3216]

This is the worst thing about MS in my opinion. I can handle the pain, weakness and tiredness a LOT easier than I can the confusion.

[@AaronBosterMD]

I am reassured that many of highly effective DMTs have been shown to decrease cognitive dysfunction!

[@stratcat3216]

@@AaronBosterMD any progress at helping people is a bonus in my book. I wish I could afford to do more than I can now but we all do the best we can.

[@loirocks18]

I already do both tips :D

[@Calamitygirl]

I live very rurally, so I really depend on what you have to say. I don’t leave much.

[@Paradox-nt5ce]

Can someone have Cognitive problems if they are diagnosed with MS at 13? I noted all your tips! Thanks

[@cassieski8005]

The very best thing I have done for my cognitive issues, was treat my fatigue. Once I started that, my regular sleep hygiene balanced. I am now going to bed at a proper hour, and only napping as you described above (when cognitively or physically necessary), previously I had been napping about 3 hours every day and up way too late. It was a vicious cycle. Also water! Making sure I get enough water for the day. Sometimes when I feel tired, I drink a large class of cold water and it perks me up. Diet. I have cleaned up my diet a lot. Recently we were out of town and I ate too much friend food and sugar. I felt groggy, tired and overall yucky. Just another reminder to myself how important diet is. I would like to point out a recent situation I found myself in. I started noticing I was getting tired quicker with activity, a little short of breath easily with minimum activity, and had been eating ice like crazy...like it was candy! I had been anemic in some of my pregnancies, so it occurred to me to have my iron checked. Now, my first thought was to blame it on my MS and assume maybe my medicine for fatigue wasn’t working. However, when I took a careful evaluation of what I was feeling, it wasn’t like my MS fatigue which almost always consumed my cognitive function. This felt more winded, muscular etc. Anyway, sure enough I had my primary care check my levels, and I am/was anemic. (Working on bumping that up). I already am feeling a bit better, but it takes time. Just a little experience I had about not always sweeping everything under the MS rug. Another great video! Thank you as always!

[@AaronBosterMD]

Awesome real life insights into real life cog fog. Thank you for sharing - super valuable!! TY Cassie!

[@danielhernandez-fo3mj]

hello love your video me and my fam all have m.s except my dad and really your videos are so informative but i just want to say for some peole witj ms cognition issues can end up like altimers cuz my sister the secound to get m.s. actully forgot where and who she was on her verry first attack granted she already is low cognative before the ms but really it happens but really i love your videos and glad i found you mabye you could do a video on the dawson finger lision i feel not enough pepole know about it and is the only reason me and my middle sis got our diagnosis cognition in the biggest issue with the corrpus collossom and the dawson finger lesions

[@LumiaMarie]

Wow, another golden nugget of information. As well as presenting a radio show, I also sometimes compere or present events and I remember so well last year, less than 6 months following diagnosis, I was presenting an event which involved interviewing participants. In the middle of one such interview, I couldn't think of a simple word to link the interview.....believe it or not, that simple word was "and". I paused for what seemed like an eternity, yet it was simply seconds, but I immediately changed direction of question if that makes sense. After the show, I cried as I thought I was going mad. This video explains so much and gives me greater confidence to all the time keep training my brain so that the next time I hit a wall or a fog, I can get beyond it. Thank you again Dr B!!

[@AaronBosterMD]

You CAN get beyond it Darragh! FIGHT! #WeHaveMS

[@LumiaMarie]

Aaron Boster MD I have every intention of Fighting!! #WeHaveMS

[@AaronBosterMD]

And you've got a huge village behind you my friend!!

[@pipedreams1685]

I have had MS for seven years and have never been given a SDMT or neuropsychmoetric test.

[@Brenda90210]

Hello Dr. I also have ms . I think I have a lot of problems with cognition. Some of it are moving in some sort of a cycle . I get a day or 2 of extreme anxiety. Usually it’s followed by fatigue. I also noticed some moments of euphoria, but it doesn’t last long . My emotional are very often out of control. And recently I’ve started dreaming excessively. I can dream all night it feels . Sometimes it’s so bad that only closing my eyes for a few moments I already start dreaming . It’s strange to explain but I feel a thin line between thinking and dreaming at times . When I feel anxious my face often starts burning . Burning on my face is another of my symptoms. Also recently seeing a black spot in my right eye vision . My left and right hands are always numb . And the pinky fingers on both hands are usually paralyzed when I wake up in the morning. It returns to normal again although it remains very numb all day . About my cognition I often have obsessive thoughts. One thing that can never leave my mind . I think about that thing all day . I often also feel to faint when I try to fall asleep so I must always try to fall asleep carefully because of it . I often can not concentrate well and my mind jumps from thought to thought. On very bad days I can not listen to music at all , it makes me feel so sick. I get headaches sometimes and feel very dizzy and then at the same time usually also emotionally unstable. I experience a lot of itching together with burning or crawling feelings .

[@gittaflower8602]

This is my life 😊😳

[@lheenlejardesazon7890]

i always plan to “write down important information “ but always forget to do it soon after always say “i should write it down!!!!!😢

[@scottburge219]

I understand that. I’ve been using my phone. The the microphone to take notes took a little practice.

[@elizabethhilburn7730]

I find that playing daily word games and mental exercises (trying to figure out exact change before the cashier announces it from his/her cash register) also makes a difference.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Those are smart ideas Elizabeth! Thank you for watching and thanks for sharing them! #WeHaveMS

[@billiejoe413]

I love your Exact Change Game. I'm going to start using cash more!

[@AaronBosterMD]

right on Kathy! #WeHaveMS

[@leventerethelyi8461]

Yes!!! Im not crazy for doing this stuff! :D

[@lisacook3841]

I use my cell phone for a lot I'd say in place of the notebook. I have a place I leave myself notes, I set an alarm for my medications and other tricks. I try every day to put things in the same place (creating routines), my physical activities are getting better as I dog sit and often take the dog to the park, but on the other hand too much walking or standing causes me issues with my bulging disk and degenerative disks. I DO NEED to clean up my diet, I kicked the Diet Coke habit and now just drink water so that was the first step NOW I need to find a way of kicking my Sugar habit. I get an urge to have something after dinner at night, I believe it has become a habit or just a craving that is stirred up from my Diabetes. My Poly-Pharmacy.... Well I'm on MANY meds as I have; MS, Diabetes Type 2, RA, Fibromyalgia, Asthma, and A-Fib and have weaned myself off a few we shall see. I have lost my sense of smell and taste and the doctors are at a loss, actually my sense of smell is that I do have a sense but EVERYTHING stinks food smells specially IF its HOT. My taste even chocolate can taste bad. :'( Use to LOVE oranges and lemons and now they taste rotten. I can't wear cologne/perfume I feel I stink all the time and that includes deodorant. One doctor called the pharmacist to see IF my medication could be causing this; they recommended getting off the Fluoxetine and the Flecainide I did both and still have the issues. Any suggestions Dr. Aaron Boster MD would be appreciated and thank you for your channel I have now subscribed :o)

[@andycoburn2122]

Try repeating Tai Chi which helps with movement and memory and fitness!!

[@billhobson1277]

No one ever seems to be cured. I had to change neurologist (he retired all of a sudden) and on my latest scans they are clean. I was diagnosed 9 years ago, now I am confused. I don't feel diagnosed and cured. I feel so bad that I made them put me back on Tecfidera. Hopefully that will make me better.

[@PrettybirdM]

Post it notes are our friends! Also...Alexa has been pretty helpful reminding me of things I tell her to. And finally I use a wall calendar in the kitchen, and write important things down so I can see them daily to remember them.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Sherry, At my house we also use Alexa and a wall calendar! Super helpful! Thank you for listening and thank you for sharing!

[@carolynbeck8485]

I’ll definitely be using the notepad tip first. Mainly because I already do. Lol Seriously though. I try keeping a “to do list” going and checking off things when I get them done. The diet angle is a work in progress. I had gotten to where I only eat 1 real meal a day. I’m trying to build up to at least 2 meals a day. Once I do that I’ll concentrate more on WHAT I’m eating. My theory is that if I make little changes, and make them one at a time, they changes I make will be more permanent.

[@Letsgetbusy293]

Thankyou

[@AaronBosterMD]

#WeHaveMS

[@bernardoserrano3092]

I use both the notebook and the diet, I eat a MSG/Glutten Free diet and it has helped alot🤗

[@AaronBosterMD]

That's fantastic Ibet! #WeHaveMS

[@nargizask5235]

Dr. Boster, Thanks a lot for your videos. Could active continuous learning such as learning languages help to preserve cognition and minimize cognition issues?

[@AaronBosterMD]

Yes I think it could help

[@dianabeaudreau5484]

Hi Dr. B., Dee here from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. I have a question that I feel is crazy or cognitive fog. I do weird things; mostly when I'm waking up but not always. I've made a cup of tea and put bbq sauce, ketchup, mustard and milk and tried to drink till I tasted. Last nite I took my phone cover off my phone put my phone on floor and almost stepped on it, would have if my mother hadn't got me. When she said stop, I took the rubber off and tried to put on my foot and she stopped me, I then tried the other foot. All of the sudden I'm aware of my surroundings and don't understand why I do that stuff. Help please I don't like mustard. Lol

[@timburns9890]

First tip being used is the notepad. I had recently started using a notepad when work was getting crazy busy and started missing steps in processes that I created.

[@AaronBosterMD]

wonderful Tim, I hope you're finding it helpful!

[@amyweinstein3428]

I use the app on my phone to keep lists of questions and reminders. I always have my phone with me so it works well for me.

[@AaronBosterMD]

Awesome Amy! TY for sharing with us! #WeHaveMS

[@sonjachancellor1972]

I've learned more from you than the doctors here in Oklahoma. I wish you were here!

[@AaronBosterMD]

Where are you from Sonja?

[@sonjachancellor1972]

I'm from Oklahoma and still live here . I just found out today I'm on a 12 to 18month waiting list. The vertigo is getting worse and I'm starting to fall. I was told the last 15 years it was fibre. My sister who is 13 year older was diagnosed 14 years ago and was misdiagnosed for years. I have demilynation and old damage. I feel very frustrated.