Multiple Sclerosis Vlog: MS and Aging

[@EvenSoItIsWell]

How the hey, hey do we sort out aging from MS? Yes! Yes! And yes! I am constantly asking is it MS or menopausal? It is a mystery. Thanks for the video Dr. B.

[@AaronBosterMD]

You're welcome Even So It Is Well!

[@37Raffaella]

Aaron Boster MD 1st takeaway, 51 is not old, yea....🎉💃🏼🎶🥂Good Morning Dr. Boster.....

[@2listening1]

Oh my Gosh, Even So, that needs to be a T-shirt "Is It MS or is it Menopause???? =0 " !!!!

[@suecooper2975]

I hear you. Is this a hot flash or a Tefidera flush?!? Is this MS fatigue or is it because I'm just home from work, didn't sleep well last night... and I'm 54 years old?!?

[@user-oe2yi6up8x]

Hi. Have you considered taking HRT? Eve

[@loricowan3084]

Yes! As a 92 yr old with MS, I definitely feel proactive care for my MS is ignored. I do a LOT of self care with diet, isometric , exercise, meditation & staying socially active.

[@arr2820]

Wow! So hiw are you dping?

[@debraindxb]

@@arr2820 Wow, right? I want to know MORE!!!

[@cc34945]

I was told at the beginning of this adventure, four years ago, that my best bet would be diet, exercise and meditation. It still seems to be the best answer. But sometimes I hate being my own doctor.

[@whoosh_angel]

Thanks for sharing this! Very encouraging! What age were you diagnosed, and have you had any DMTs?

[@cc34945]

You give me a bit of hope. I’ve added naps…actually a yoga nidra technique. Back in PT for foot drop. Forcing myself to get out of the house. Reaching out to old friends. And reminding myself that none of this is happening in a vacuum.

[@j.svensson7652]

I have yet to find a neuro who gives a fig for my health. I was told in Dec that my MS is stable and she would not be medicating me. That my condition would not worsen. She said I had Progressive Relapsing MS and refused to listen to me. Decided my bladder issue/and fatigue was tied to excessive trips to the toilet in the night (utterly NOT the case). She told me when I tried to express the issues I currently have "I don't have time for this". So... still searching for a neuro who wont blow me off. You are the BEST Dr B.

[@suecolclough1268]

I found out i had MS at 60. Thank you for help me understand what it is i have. I was given book to learn from but couldn't & found your channel better for me. So i would love to say biggest thank you ❤😂

[@Jerusalem_Warrior]

Yeah, 56 and diagnosed last year. Raging mad at doctors of every specialty in the entire medical profession, therapists of every therapy that exists and everyone whom I've ever known for overlooking the possibility that I might be suffering from MS this last 10-20 years. Slowly accepting that it was God's will that everyone went deaf, dumb and blind in this matter. Grateful for my Ocravus infusions, better late than never. Cleaned up the diet, relieved to have an excuse to use a walker, and most important, calmer than I've been in many years and ready to give grandmotherly advice from my armchair. Happy Sukkot from Israel. 🇮🇱

[@cynthiacamilarsen4859]

its divine I appriciate. Your story.. every emotion under the sun seems to be displayed, when it comes to lengthy dignosis specifically ..as every persons life and what they go through is different.. I wanted to just reach out n say "i get you" As our stories are slightly different.. Since im almost not 30 something anymore.. I very much appriciate the frustration n the fact you shared that emotion with us. For back in the day this world was filled with "old school nerologists" i was just a kid. N i suffered for years but maybe the emotions are similar.just backwards. I can see how it must be even harder in a older person when u face changes in natural aging.n it being that much hared to trely reach dx. I always knew i had to be my best avacate. N i realized at that moment just how hard it is for doctor to make a definate dignosis sometimes..when theres othere things going on. So in closing.. Thank u.. ~i honor you as a human being.. And how your such a gigantic inspiration to this m.s. community how u displayed greatness.. In your life now..after your dignosis..i think what i found so inspiring.. Was the inspiration. of what to do when our life gets turned upside down at any age.. Thank you for sharing your very personal story That takes strength..n courage N im very happy you found dr. B. Channel. Sincerely' DIVINE💛 God bless

[@dr.froghopper6711]

Jerusalem Warrior I understand your frustration. I’ve been having mystery symptoms for over 40 years. I was diagnosed at age 55 and was, for a couple of years, really messed up. A lot of that was because I thought I could “Macho” my way through a couple of flares. I wasn’t paying attention to the doctors or my body and I wound up an incomplete quadriplegic. Lots of work in physical therapy has got me back walking around my house and yard without assistance of a cane or walker but I’m not good for much distance. My point is that it gets better as you wrap your head around it. Every case is different and the battle is as much between the ears as in the body. I love that name Jerusalem Warrior! I believe every single bit of it! The fight is to stay alive and promote life, for others and yourself. My garden is my sanity. I live in the desert just like you, very near the same latitude. But I’m 5000’ in elevation above sea level. Blessings!

[@dinagreen2765]

You sound like me. Even our age is the same. However, I am not officially diagnosed with MS. Diagnosed with Fibromyalgia when it probably was a misdiagnosis. Now no one wants to tackle it. Very frustrating.

[@rebeccarussell9618]

im the same as u . fibro and me ..and spinal stenosis. im 41 with 2 and a 5 and an 18 year old..was diagnosed 15 plus years ago..when my symptones sugested ms but a clear mri....i also have trygemanral nuralga and intention tremors and cognative issus that are disabling that i cant even remember my 2 year olds date of birth..my speatch is afected and i have problems with my vision and balance. this docter is a god send

[@676dancer]

I hope you know what a godsend you are to so many people, Dr B. 💜

[@avjkids]

Good morning, Dr. Boster, this is Steve from Long Island, NY. I have had PPMS for 26 years and I will be turning 60 next week. This video answers many of my questions. Thanks so much for your compassion and dedication to those of us with MS.

[@lisalanham756]

Yes doctor I agree totally I was 50 when I was diagnosed which is older then the usual patient. I am now 63 and it's been difficult to say the least. I have relapsing-remitting. About five years into the disease it was really kicking my butt I was a nurse and Homecare so I didn't have a physical job but really it was the cognitive issues and fatigue. I have talked to many people that are my age and that seems to be the main source of her symptoms. I do have difficulty walking but I managed I fell last year and had a compression fracture in my spine due to osteoporosis so there's another thing that we deal with. I've lost my ability to add and subtract and do basic math and my memory is shot. I basically don't leave the house too much because I don't drive anymore it's not safe and it gets very lonely so I'm dealing with depression. But I'm glad you're addressing this because our needs are a little bit different than the younger Folk. I do feel very sorry for the Young patients they have children and that can really exhaust you. Thank you for thinking of us senior citizens sometimes we think we're the Forgotten bunch but we're out there and we're still fighting. Thank you again

[@AaronBosterMD]

#WeHaveMS

[@EvenSoItIsWell]

Hey, Lisa. I was diagnosed at 51 and am now 53. I can relate and empathize. Hang in there!

[@karengwen5405]

Thank you for sharing your MS story, Lisa. As I was reading it, it felt as though it was my own story, it’s so similar to my own experience. And thank you, Dr. B, your videos have been incredibly helpful to me.

[@dr.froghopper6711]

Hang in there Lisa! I was Dx at 55 and I’m male. I fight a couple of autoimmune issues. I’m 64 now and virtually every friend I have has abandoned me because I’m the inconvenient friend that can’t do what everyone else does the way they do. So I really do understand some of your frustration. I never wanted to live my life online and these days it’s pretty much the only option. Desert living in the summer and heat sensitivity don’t mix well. If at all possible I encourage people to grow a garden. Big or small, they can be grown in liter jars on a window shelf all the way up to an acre if you have the land and energy to farm it. I grow mostly in those blue plastic barrels cut in half and old scrapped metal bathtubs until I can get something bigger going out back. But for me it’s bringing herbs and greens and healthy things that I know for sure are totally organic into my household for food. I don’t feel so useless! I’m losing weight and getting fresh air and sunshine. I fatigue quickly but it’s honest fatigue and the energy expended is less than the energy I’ll get from the food I grow. I hope your journey goes well. You’re not forgotten. There are a lot of us in your shoes.

[@mickikindley7821]

I was 50 too

[@kristinjohnson4598]

At almost 68, I am glad to say I am doing everything right. I am still on Tysabri, but I have no more than 8 infusions a year, and luckily for me, it is the only drug I take! I'm lost excess weight and still exercise 3 times a week in a therapy pool my husband and I put in almost 5 years ago. BTW, it was ridiculously expensive, but it was the best money my husband and I spent. I'm going to give myself a good old "You've got this girl!"

[@loricowan3084]

Thank you so much for this video!! As a 90 yr old MS patient I have found it difficult to find a neurologist that will engage with my MS care. I am very proactive in my health issues. Would be helpful to have someone just to talk to that is an interested “partner” in keeping my health as good as possible.

[@flapkatt6094]

I just hit 70. SPMS @ age 51. My bad luck to have a VA doctor who can't even see me as a person of interest. When asked if I was depressed I replied that "Depression is anger turned inwards, so no. I am not depressed. I am however, angry. At being forced to endure pathetic dismissive "care" from such a callous person masquerading as a physician. Depressed? No. Just really pissed off". Welcome to the age of inconvenience for my MD. I can't wait till he ages out and finds his own share of being inconsequential

[@thebucksstophere8870]

I am a player on the MS volleyball team for years! MS doctor would say my symptoms were not MS , go see your Primary, Primary would say this is for your MS physician. So frustrating!

[@studiohost]

Outstanding,well articulated and most importantly,sincere. Thank you

[@megd7593]

Thanks for not shying away from the more difficult aspects of life with MS. 👍🏽

[@florabraswell-nm1re]

Mr Boster ! Thank you so much for being such a caring person,I really appreciate you taking the time to address MS in the older generation, l find as l age”MS”just gets worse more brain fog more pain , more numbness, more bathroom trips , more stress, more fatigue, more anxiety, just more everything, you are very kind 🙏❤️🙏

[@12rollover]

Thank you for this podcast! You have helped me understand which issues I need to address with my MS neurologist🙂

[@denisetaylor1872]

You have a heart of gold. I have the kindest Neurologists who have kept me going for 20 years . At 65 I would be devastated to lose my DMD's etc especially now I have a grandchild! I've learned so much from you. Be blessed Angel of MS ❤

[@deborahniehuus8253]

You're very lucky!

[@SimplyLesa]

This video is 4 years old. I just found it. Feb 2023 I was diagnosed with MS, based on testing from Dec 2019 - March 2020. The Dr said I was blessed to be 64 and not have it severely. He sent me home to "continue life the way you have " I haven't known what symptoms of health are MS or something else. I have been aware of many allergies. I struggle - and I feel glad to have found you and your videos. I wish I had help, understanding and knew what to do in my own life. I feel alone and limited by my diet as well as my cramps, spasms n instability. (Will it ever get easier?)

[@philcameron7306]

I’m 75 and watch most of your videos. For me this is one of your best.

[@sheridanrose9880]

What’s up Doc? I’m 64.5 and really appreciate this post. Things you discussed I see happening and not happening. I’m on Ocrevus with no issues at all from infusion to the 6 month mark. I take 6 baclofen throughout the day. I take Lipitor one a day. I also take 7500 oh Vitiman D every day. And of course Flomax as well. I have Primary Progressive. I fail at consistent movement. I’ve got some work to do! Have a great day!

[@whoosh_angel]

7500 IUs of vit D3?

[@desiredecove5815]

Sharing... lol I’m 42 but feeling like 82 😆🤦‍♀️

[@kathryn6402]

I’m nearly 42 and I so relate!!! Spring chicken mentally, but fatigue-wise have felt like 82 for 15 years! I actually watched this just to check that “older” didn’t mean “over 40” hahaha! 😂

[@11kjake]

I have PPMS and mostly bed ridden. It only took 9 yrs to get this bad. What should I do now?

[@wandareller8303]

Great video Dr Boster. I’m 62 and was diagnosed a couple months ago. This video is very helpful!

[@sherristevens3972]

I m 53 and DXed at 39 and it's been awful. Right now it's extreme nerve pain and tremors inside. It's horrible. Amen 👍

[@barbaradonofrio]

So glad to find this video, as I'm 81. Appreciate your philosophy!

[@andrewgoulding7287]

I was 60 last month this video has made me think.. I will be taking this fantastic guys advice.. I am 60 I am not old

[@AaronBosterMD]

Keep it up

[@debbiedean3165]

After I heard your view on coffee I started drinking one cupish a day in the morning. For me it's life changing. I get some energy in the morning and into the afternoon. This helps me to get some things accomplished, which lifts my mood in addition to it's own benefit. Thank you 😊

[@SimplyLesa]

Coffee? Is Coffee okay?

[@delaineymacphearson6850]

I’m 62 and have had these issues for so long. My dr is finally willing to look at this and hopefully we find an answer.

[@annconforti9294]

Me, too at age 65.

[@anneroberts9841]

Dr u are amazing the way you clearly explain things an speak the way we understand thanku

[@TRoseTheArtist]

Thank you for genuinely caring for the elders! 💜🌹💜

[@AaronBosterMD]

Of course!!

[@dougtagg9162]

As a member of the old peoples group (62) I thank you for this video Dr. B. Doug coffee in hand from Lyndhurst. I have been enjoying the spoils of my Dr. and supportive staff who has me on Ocrevus and Ampyra.

[@AaronBosterMD]

#MakeMSBoring!

[@deborahnooname5130]

Thank you so much for sharing information about MS. You have been helpfull. I am a 60 year old Grandmother of 11 grandkids. Dianosed at 30 years.

[@LB-zb4ub]

I am 55 and have become a shut in. I got so tired of canceling plans. It’s easier to not disappoint people. I’ve lost many friends, but not because they left me but because I left them. I am sad on occasion but have always been ok alone or with people.

[@AJHR77]

Hi Dr.B! I am a lifelong learner so I appreciate the lectures. Thank you for clarifying your philosophy and that everyone needs to be actively treated!

[@AaronBosterMD]

+AJ's HR thank you- what is your take?

[@AJHR77]

@@AaronBosterMD Thanks for always interacting with us! I think it is not being addressed and I know many in our MS Group who meet at our Catholic church once a month they cannot get a Neurologist to treat other than a conversation and some Prednisone. Need stronger thought leaders like you.

[@jackiegirl4530]

@@AaronBosterMD My Dr. said he "THINKS" I have fibromyalgia and gave me medication, he didn't listen to anything I told him, I have ALL the symptoms of MS I told him... and I demanded a MRI, he did so, my brain and to NO avail has called me to give me the results. I am older and very frustrated and very concerned about my health, I should find another Dr., it took about 3 months to get an appointment and I need proper treatment as my attacks are LONG lasting. I could use all your help, Thank you in advance. "Sleepless in NY"

[@leannecolman7366]

Thank you so much ms is very cruel not much fun.😊

[@fionablack1227]

I understand that late onset MS is on the rise - I was diagnosed at age 51. Glad you’ve highlighted the double whammy that is MS and normal ageing. Also for some a third problem of something else like Type2 or heart disease. I am totally sold on living to max brain and bodily health. The brain shrinks as we get older, but does this a whole heap faster in MS. To function mentally and physically as well as we can we need to look after our ‘main computer’ You have neatly summed up the advice available online in ‘MS Brain Health. Time Matters’ I am also persuaded by Mark Mattson in his TEDx Talk on intermittent fasting and brain health, based on his research for the Institute on Ageing/ John Hopkins Uni. I’m now using 16/8 on a daily basis.

[@acappellasingbr]

Thank you Dr. Boster!! Kudos for addressing tbe issue of aging. One thing that my Primary Care Dr. has done for me is to order more physical therapy for me. They evaluated me ans I am doing water therapy twice a weekm. I have gained strength and mobility from doing the water therapy. I have also considered purchasing a wax warmer for my hands. I appreciate what you do for us!!

[@patti280]

I’m 73 with ms. I live in Canada and I still get fantastic care. I’m still mobile because I really work at it. But I have great support from friends and my doctors. I refused the meds and doing well with diet and exercise. Fatigue is my only complaint.

[@Sharona811]

Thanks for the video as always 😊 I’d really like to know more about Late Onset MS. I was 52 when diagnosed and reading the comments here, there are quite a few with diagnosis around this age. The course of the disease does not seem to be the same as for those diagnosed in their 20s and 30s and no one seems to be writing about this cohort of patients.

[@rosiestevens4815]

Diagnosed at 70...doing well with exercises, I'm now 88 following a really nasty fall spine compressed lost nearly 3inches in height...now have bowel problems no movement.On enemas now without results suggested by one GP irrigation told not to by another gp.contine doing exercises.making me very depressed. help thank you..(.England).

[@dorisdephillipps9932]

I am 70 years old and 27 years of MS. In 2018 first round(5 days) of Alemtuzumab and 2019.second round (3 days) lived with no exacerbation till september 2023. No serious side effects and planning for a next round. My neurologist believes in Alemtuzumab as you do. I am a little scared because of age but my neurologist says I can go for it and after seeing your videos with more information I feel more confident.

[@lisawesner1548]

When I was on an ms injection between 43 - 50 yrs old, I was diagnosed with lung cancer and breast cancer. I haven’t been on any other ms drug since. I’m currently 61 and still only have 3 lesion same size back from 2006.

[@tracyfromwv9374]

Older MS here, dx at 53. Also dealing with menopause and its issues. Gaaaaaah.

[@mikaylabansie9512]

Ikr. Hot flashes are hell🥵

[@barbmelanson8399]

Same here 51 just diagnosed

[@user-oe2yi6up8x]

Hi Tracy. Have you considered taking HRT? Eve

[@lmundiclan]

Yep I am 78 and was just diagnosed a little over a week ago. Thank you doctor, the doctor neurologist didn’t give me another day to come back or refer me to anyone else either. Oh and never prescribed anything. I did finally get florineph.

[@iammark1480]

GREETINGS, Dr. Boster. I'm 11 months late responding here. Anyway at 62, I've pretty much ruled out everything else that could mimic MS, I've journaled my symptoms for over 2 years now. Question, can an MRI at my age when looking for spots be inconclusive? Last one showed negative for MS. Thanks for your help! I've seen many of your videos. Let's jump ahead in time from this video and say Congratulations again on 25,000 Subs. So many being helped by you! Yours truly included! You can tell how much you care! I have not seen that in my battle, they seem to just kick the can with me. So your are a blessing, 🙏 and you give me hope, thanks! Mark 😊

[@kahearne5361]

Thank you I just turned 60 and feeling invisible. Am single and live alone and friends moved or distant and COVID. Feel helped by your conversation. Wish singles living alone with no solid support person had more helps on steps to take. So many have their kids or spouse supporting but long term issues are a concern. Paid caregivers are not always a financial option. Addressing these topics may help many. Thank you for what you do! Kathleen in Canada p.s. our health system neglects supportive roles unless so severe and then only timed task assistance. Our system has deteriorated enormously over last few years. Having worked on the front lines if health care I have witnessed thus firsthand and education has not translated into better care or prevention of worse outcomes. Hope is alive but does not come from what used to be a good health care system. I recall the year a local hospital removed the word "excellence" from its mandate! :(

[@mariaa6918]

Amazing Aaron, thank you

[@Superchick.Marie777]

I am receiving my infusion at this very moment. And I am thankful for you Dr B thank you!!❤

[@janicehenderson3210]

I have been listening to you for many years and I am now 68 with MS and I just read the article about Benign or Burn out MS. I have to say that most of what I hear about MS doesn't interest me except when I here the findings of new beginnings of MS. I did have Epstein Barr and then Mono and Optic Neuritis but never did I hear anything about MS from any of those. I was officially diagnosed in 2002 but I know that it started probably when I had Epstein Barr and Mono. When I had problems walking and getting dizzy my doctor sent me to a neurologist and I got my first MRI which was terrible because I found out I was claustrophobic and I screamed to get me out and beat on the walls. The MRI was on the big film that had to be rolled up to take to the neurologist. I was told I had benign MS and I didn't need to start any DMT. I was totally shocked that I was told I had MS and it was benign so I just assumed it wasn't anything I needed to worry about. When I read the article about benign and burn out I felt that for the first time I was reading what had been me with my MS. I have never been on a DMT although I was constantly pushed to start one. Neurologist don't want you as a patient is you don't start a DMT. I have been to different neurologists but they never treated me like I was worth their trouble so I would find another one. I got so frustrated that I wasn't listened to and I never had any major issues with my MS. I had an occasional problem like the MS hug and itching but nothing that lasted as long as Optic Neuritis. Depression has been the only constant but my doctor always took care of my drugs and a yearly MRI but it always said nothing much had changed but I still had MS. I quit getting MRIs because nothing was ever showing much change. I quit going to a neurologist because it was just waste of time and I just dealt with anything that might be MS related. I have kept all my MRIs and the reports which doesn't show much of anything. My problem now is being 68 and age creeping up on me I really wanted to find out if the things that were happening now were just because of was getting older. I am having more issues with cognition and problems walking and my hands don't want to hold things but that could be arthritis. When I read the article about Benign and Burn Out it just made me feel so good that it was talking about what my MS had been like. I had never been told anything about what that could be with me. Some times I think I just used MS as an excuse for not being able to take what happens in life. I am just glad that old age is what I mostly deal with at this point. It would be nice to have a neurologist talk to me about what all my MRIs showed on my MS trip. I never had a neurologist talk with me and showing me my MRI but they always just read the report and that is what I was told. Thanks for letting me say what I think. Janice

[@paulahall1700]

Thank you for discussing this! I was diagnosed in my early 60s! The neurologist won’t subscribe any Ms disease modifying therapy at this point. I am frustrated because COVID forced my decision in not continuing Rutuxin because of the it. Now I am not being given any other option!

[@chrisc757]

Another great video. I am 65 had and this very conversation during my last visit with my Neurologist. His recommendation aligned with yours in that I should and will stay on my DMT. I was diagnosed with MS at age 56 and have been on Copaxone ever since.

[@teresahorner7065]

Thank you doctor boster you're a great man.

[@Turbo-6]

Amazing video and a great topic! Thank you Dr. B

[@nyrhockeychick4life655]

This helped me a lot. I’m guilty of being behind of regular health stuff now. I also appreciate the information on abuse so much.

[@estuardogutierrez9041]

Doctor i just wanna say thank you for this videos!! thank you for your passion and the way you show that you really care about us and you really love your career!! i wish all doctors could be like you!!

[@lrubin39]

Dr. B., Do you have a printed version of your video's? You talk so fast with so much information, my brain no longer works this fast, and I don't want to miss one word. Help!! Thank you. Lisa

[@debbiedean3165]

Thank you, Great detailed information.

[@RebeccaOsterbergFamilyandMusic]

I had two neurologists tell me I was too old for a preliminary diagnosis of MS. It went downhill from there. I remember falling in marching band and kids laughing at me, but had no insurance or other major symptoms to get a doctor to look at me.

[@down-to-earth-mystery-school]

Appreciate this conversation. Age 50, going to my neurologist on Monday to review the MRI for suspected MS

[@pnooom]

Wow! This is the first time I've heard of the link between MS and bone health. I'm a 51 year old male with osteoporosis of the spine and osteopenia of the hip neck. I take bisphosphonates and vitamin D and Ca and go for a walk every day with my walking stick. I didn’t know there was a link between the two. Interesting!

[@tereseawalker4516]

Thank you Dr Boster for this video, today my Neuro Md wants to stop my copaxone after being on over 20 years, her reasoning was no new lesions or inflammation last couple of MRI's ,plus the risk of being on immunesuppressant with the viral covid and other viruses now! I am 70 years old and diagnosed since I was 38, use a cane for mobility, balance problems, bladder and bowel issues, plus low vision, memory problems, and neuropathy pain, debilatating fatique. She wants to send me to a MS specialist to second her decision to take me off copaxone plus to have another MRI to make sure have no new active lesions! I am very frustrated and close to changing neurologist.

[@lauraluffman6177]

Thanks dr B you are very caring and compassionate this is very informative

[@sammikinney1601]

Oh my goodness. This made me feel completely overwhelmed. You make it all sound so doable. Almost as if every one is walking this path in the same shoes. With the same opportunities. Someone needs to enlighten you on the realities, of being elderly with the struggle of dealing with MS.

[@mikeecko]

I absolutely love your videos doctor B. Because you care about multiple sclerosis and helping people. I've learned a lot from watching your videos these past six months. Please continue to fill my head with your knowledge. Ms warriors!!!! 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻🙌🏻

[@Prunusspp]

Dear dr Boster, thank you for this video. There are people that developed evident disability due to untreated MS (DMTs unavailable, like in Serbia). Do DMTs still have an impact on the course of the disease if taken e.g. 15-20 years after disease onset without any previous treatment. I suppose the answer depends on whether they still have RRMS or it has progressed to SPMS.

[@JP-kl1mj]

I think my grandmother who lived in Italy her whole life was diagnosed ms in her 60's. She passed away at 92

[@dahlialewis4561]

I agree with you about treating persons as individuals as what works for one doesn't necessarily work for the other .

[@jillstevens5]

This was awesome! At 72 with MS I am confronting just about everything you talked about. And I feel that the medical people around me are addressing just about every issue. But here’s one: the other day I was supposed to have an MRI as a follow up to breast cancer six years ago. I have a gene variant that leaves me susceptible to several kinds of cancer. I could not, because of my MS and my gimpy legs, get onto the table for the MRI. There was no accommodation for me. I do not want to be lifted because it is dangerous and very scary. But basically I was unable to follow the protocols that my physicians have set out for me. And they too are unable to do their job because there is no accessibility to the machines. They say they don’t encounter this problem. I don’t believe it. I ended up not having this procedure and unless someone is able to provide accommodation, I will worry about this gap in my care.

[@nyrhockeychick4life655]

Finally dx at 45. It’s been a looooong road. Was told to go on Vumerity for RRMS? Figured I would be primary progressive by now, but only a syrinx & brain lessons. My legs hurt. Im tired. Thanks Dr. B

[@GODEED]

Thank you, Doctor.

[@AaronBosterMD]

You are very welcome

[@CathyChester]

I can't thank you enough for this video. This is a subject near and dear to my heart. As you may not may not know I was diagnosed in 1986 so obviously there were no FDA apprroved medications. So I wasn't on any DMT's until 1993. In your opinion will I pay the price for being off any meds for all those years?

[@juliejoraymond9815]

Same here 35 yrs no DMTs. Just started at age 60, diagnosed at 25. Will we pay a price?

[@Jerusalem_Warrior]

Cathy, Julie, there are no would - haves, there only is what is. Treasure it. Good luck, you're not alone. 🤞

[@dr.froghopper6711]

I was Dx at 55 after decades of mystery symptoms that nobody at the VA recognized as MS related. I just discovered that I was diagnosed with lupus years ago that has never been followed or treated. I’m 63 now and finally was able to get an MS specialist outside the VA system. I often wonder how much damage happened while waiting for the diagnoses and people failing to treat conditions. But I can’t afford to get angry about it. The stress of multiple autoimmune conditions is sufficient to keep me occupied. I hope everything goes well for you!

[@rosemaryking1072]

Okay, trying to make this short. I was Dx in December of last last year at the age of 68, very very active, saw the doctor for yearly physical, other than that I may catch a cold. I had a callus on both big toes, had for years, saw an orthopedic doctor in June of last year, said I would never get rid of them because of the way I walked, took me awhile but I agreed to what they call a Strayer Procedure ( both legs two separate surgeries ) after both cast came off a couple weeks later I started to notice sensation in my left arm pit when putting on deodorant, paid it no mind, then wearing shorts setting a cold can next to the inside of left thigh, jumped with the same sensation put it on different parts of my left side same thing odd but okay. A week later while riding my bike, put my left leg down to get of, went down like I had no leg, okay now, something is wrong. Went to my PD he ran a couple MRIs sent me to a neurologist, she did a battery of test, she was almost sure I had MS, an active cervical lesion, in December had five days of steroids, in March showed no difference in the lesion so another round of steroids was ordered. She sent me to a neurologist spine surgeon, after looking at a years worth of history in 20 min, ( that’s what he said) he believed it was not MS, said it was a tiny bone spur, I asked him if it would give me back my mobility, he said no, it to far damaged. Then said after the surgery and it gets worse you probably do have MS. After a year and getting worse no I have PPMS. No she wants to do a therapeutic Blood Exchange. So wow, I just turned 69 and seem to be getting worse, I have know idea what to do🤔☹️

[@LiesaWeaver]

What are your thoughts of older adults with chronic pain with muscles and joints. Dr. Says it’s not MS, it’s arthritic pain. What is the best treatment to help with quality of life?

[@lenafrost7279]

❤ I love you videos and information you give all of us thank you .here is something being on Medicare doesn't help pay for medications for ms you have to get grants to pay this.

[@kathleencrudele389]

Thank you so much!!!! You are amazing you have addressed so many things that I am going through and makes it understandable.

[@newyorkdiva3]

Thank you for this video you answered a lot of of my answers.

[@julie9155]

Nurse practitioner mentioned multiple times Friday that the older get the less ... I believe will be visiting Dr Boster sooner than I thought. OR send some of your students after complete education to southern WV lol

[@shelveyphillipsbowman8037]

You r so well spoken.wish I could c u in person.keep up good work. What can I do for pain and fatigue

[@kerriarceo3707]

I am 67 years old. Right now I am experiencing a severe MS hug. I will start IV methol prednisone tomorrow. My MS is still a big part of my life. I am concerned about staying on therapy. I still need help.

[@ernietollar7767]

58. I am not planning on sticking around to burden my kids with my PPMS. I've lived great life and their getting through they're teens. I love life, and look forward to trying to HALT progression. I'm only at edss 3-ish but it is not levelling off. I started a B cell depletor in Jan 2023 but It only seemed to have sped progression - beyond what I have ever experienced prior to DMT. I'll be getting non myeloablative HSCT in Sept 2023. I'm pretty strong otherwise for 58. If it stops progression (excluding any previous smouldering damage), I'll live in a renewed fiesty way. If I turn out to be a non responder - so be it. I've had a good kick at the can. I'll cross that bridge in the next year after I'll have tried HSCT. alive I'll bow out with as much grace as I can, and with love for my successors when the time comes. History will smile on the exceptional efforts of good Dr's Boster, Beaber, Burt, Ruiz and others. Hugz to all. Enjoy the day.

[@martinm8991]

We had a very nasty rule in Slovakia until 2008: no single MS patient over the age of 45 was to receive DMDs! The health insurance system here is semi-open, so there are lots of general rules and regulations which apply to all insurers. Slovak MS community launched a campaign in 2007 and mostly thanks to being an EU member this regulation has been almost lifted. Almost means, that if somebody gets their MS diagnosis after the age of 45, they still will not receive any DMDs... PS: Speaking of ancient rules: PPMS is still officially considered here as untreatable, so good doctors never declare a new patient to be PP anymore . . .

[@carlenewilsontheone3035]

I really wish you could be my doctor

[@amandaanderson8254]

Dr. B I have a question can you have a symptom without a co existing lesion. I developed speech problems around may and my specialist says because I have no new activity it has to be from something else. I'm so confused. He tries to blame all my symptoms on anxiety and depression.

[@jimmyfox3328]

As a 67 year old diagnosed 8 years ago with PPMS I appreciate this video. I have done well but have seen the worst of MS with my mother and brother. Both have since past. When at my summer home in Lake City, CO I walk 2-3 miles a day early in the morning when the temperature is 38-53 degrees. At my home in Amarillo,TX I exercise on a gym using an elliptical and weights. I use hiking sticks and an L300 GO when walking in my mountain home and an ice vest in Amarillo. Love your videos and live chats. I do the 5 things you recommend to all MS patients and I preach them. The future looks bright especially for those that take good treatment.

[@andreag.6977]

Also I hardly ever drink alcohol do not smoke and stretch daily. I do pt once or twice weekly. Oops I take a vitamin with Whitaker mushrooms daily and nitric oxide. I take Proteolytic Enzymes also in a tablet daily

[@mariamathews7829]

Do you believe that by being active (stretching, yoga, walking...), I can delay disability? Even if I’m 58?

[@taleenbright563]

Im 28 y o patient with ms .. im on avonex right now ! .. i always wonder how my life would look like when i ll be older ! I always think i ll be recover from it i dont know why

[@AaronBosterMD]

hang in thee taleen! You're not alone

[@taleenbright563]

Yes this is the idea of ms i guess that nothing can stop me only myself and i feel really strong ☺️

[@ope4r540]

taleen bright Hi Taleen. I’ve tried three DMT’s now. This last one, Ocrevus, has really helped give me back my life. I shared with Dr. Boster I didn’t think the infusion was strong enough to last the whole 6 months. After the second, infusion I noticed I approached the 3rd infusion less symptomatic. This medication really has calmed down the symptoms and the physical nerve pain. Fatigue is no longer hounding me. I really thought my MS was relentless. If you don’t think you’re Med is helping you anymore, please ask your Neuro on moving you to another DMT. Dr. Boster posted a video on this medication. It has really helped me to reclaim my life and I don’t have such a bleak outlook anymore. My best wishes to you for better days. 😄

[@andreawheatley5528]

@@ope4r540 Same here, I don't know why they give newly diagnosed old drugs like Avonex, I was on Rebif, Tecfidera, Aubagio and the generic Copaxone. Now on Ocrevus, best drug ever.

[@ope4r540]

Andrea W That’s great news Andrea! 👏 Please spread the word. Not just to help advertise the medication, but to let MSers know they have to try other DMT’s and their neurologist’s need to keep current with the latest treatment options. Not all Neuros specialize in MS. To have the support of your Neuro is critical to getting this horrible disease under control/arrested/diminished, whatever you want to label it. What many don’t realize, especially family and friends;?you’re so cognitively compromised to even formulate questions. That was the former self they remember and the new you may look okay, but your inquisitive self maybe hard to tap into. That’s why I recommend always seeing a backup Neuro, even if you have to drive farther away, wait months for the 1st appointment and/or pay cash for the visit. Just the input of a second set of eyes from a Neuro on top of the latest MS treatments is a game changer. You can always check-in throughout the year with a Patient Portal. But go at least once a year to visit. You’re not a nuisance patient, you’re an embattled patient fighting the most relentless disease. I’m glad Dr. Boster posted these videos and Live Chats. It was like having another doctor available to answer my questions. I didn’t think the Ocrevus was lasting long enough after my 1st infusion and he addressed this on a Live Chat, advising you can request the infusion sooner than at the 6 month mark. As easy it is to forget all the challenges and pain I faced, I will always turn around to help another MS patient. We are not alone and need to stick together until this disease is cured. Till then, I wish you better days. Cindy 💐😉

[@judiw2045]

I was diagnosed with MS in 2014. I was 54 years old at the time. My doc at the time told me that I didn't need disease modifying meds because of my age. This doc moved out of town in 2019. The second doc told me that he didn't really think I had MS! (despite symptoms and lesions on my MRI). I left him after 2 years because I didn't feel like he believed me. My new doc referred me to a rehab doc who is fantastic! This is the FIRST time since 2014 that someone finally told me that I had spasticity and described it to me. I am starting PT on Thursday. I was told that weight lifting would make the spasticity worse. I don't know if this is true. Still not on DMT................don't know if I should be. Also - I have chronic left shin pain that no one says anything about. Is this MS too?

[@jacih1034]

Thank you Dr. Boster ....this was very informative and very directed at myself.

[@karylquigley3658]

What about balance when you have had a hip repair, you now have one leg longer hense the balance issues 16:56 😊

[@EarthquakeKelcy]

How common is it for people to be diagnosed at 70+? Or is it highly unlikely that it's MS at that age and more likely some other auto immune disease? The family member I'm thinking about has suspected they have had this for some years and at 65 had a neurologist considering it but the person had no insurance and couldn't afford pursuing a diagnosis at that time. They also recently learned there are red flags for RA , which runs in the family, and they have had a malar rash for years. Currently exhibiting issue with focal mechanism of one eye, random involuntary twitches throughout the body daily, elevated icG, as well as many other of the common symptoms.

[@m3131m]

Awesome video content! Thanks doc.

[@rssikorski]

Do you consult at a distance? I am in NYC. Or, can you refer to a like-minded MS Neurologist in NYC?

[@WMACPT]

My concern with age and MS is what’s not addressed very clearly…those that acquire MS at an older age. Like me…it started for me at age 53 and I became really symptomatic at around 56. Nuero deficits are here now. Do I then become one of those you de-escalate DMD with? I started out with RRMS, but now have digressed to SP MS. No relapses while on Tysabri(I love it). But generally I feel a decline in ability. We’re now talking about a manual wheelchair just so I can be more independent and safe. But do I de-escalate DMD and DMT? I don’t want to. It’s not come up with my neurologist. But I’m not in favor of lightening the load just yet. What’s your opinion in this situation? I won’t hold you to it. Am I a new patient still or just an old patient now and get out to pasture? I’m 58. Thank you if see this after 2 years with original post.

[@catherinefreure7083]

Dr B for years I've been diagnosed with severe fibromyalgia. I believe I have MS. I'm 66. Cortisone was part of daily therapy for me in Canada and I had few symptoms. I moved to the US in 2014, no MD will hear of using the same protocol I was on, my symptoms have increased and worsened. How does a good MS doctor differentiate between fibro and MS as so many symptoms are the same if there is nothing in an MRI?

[@beverly9885]

This is difficult to watch….I’m 61. I used to be mobile. with a walker, ms stable for 13. Years. Was yanked off DMT and put on another. 3 relapses in 1.5 years, had to learn to walk again, but lost so much function. Was put on new DMT. Did well for a year and a half, and then had another massive relapse. Speaking of sleeping, after that relapse, I slept 14 hours a day for 6 weeks after I got out of the hospital. Yeah, hospital, and talk of a “rehab facility” which I absolutely refused. I am worried. If I have another relapse and lose more function, I don’t think I’m going to be able to live in my house. Oh I have a nice shiny red power chair now too. I use it as little as possible….. but I need it to get to the kitchen. And yes I’m on the highest tier MS drug that I can tolerate. And I can’t go to in person physical therapy because of Covid. Physical therapy over telemedicine it’s not very effective. Oh well. I could be pessimistic, but it wouldn’t work. That was a pretty bad joke eh?

[@cc34945]

I’m trying to make the decision whether to get on Ocrevus . I wasn’t diagnosed till I was 70 years old. The most recent MRI showed four years without any change. I can’t seem to get enough information to make a decision on a very expensive drug. I seem to be one of the outliers and after three Neurologists I’m not any clearer on a decision.

[@Jleet-3573]

What are your thoughts on testosterone replacement therapy? I’ve been on it for several months now and it has helped immensely with the primary progressive multiple sclerosis that I have. I’m 65 still active and I think that TRT should be recommended recommended for people with MS.

[@Daisy00984]

I am 68yrs old. I had symptoms early this Yr, which took me to doctor. All tests have come back normal, but, my symptoms persist. I had blackouts in the space of 3months. I asked to see a neurologist. Instead I've been referred to cardiology for a Loop recorder to be inserted. My concern is, is this a diversion technique to delay neurology input due to my age. Meantime, my family, friends and I are confused. Can you please clarify this situation, Dr Bostor. Thank you

[@cynthiacamilarsen4859]

Dear Dr. Aaron. It's divine. Thank you for making this video. As I my self have had a good amount of the complications you spoke about in this video.. A.e. im referring to things like ulcers.. phnemonia. Breathing issues.. ect . I had some generic questions. Or general ones.if that's ok? 1. Is it uncommon to want a DNR. C.c. with m.s. As a generization if a patient had issues with breath chronicly?. I guess I'm just wondering a statistic. Are DNRs less or more common in m.s. at end of life. Of course I know every situation is personal. And different. But I was asking I guess. Be cause at what point does it make our condition worse. Was my thought. 2.a question.. on villages.. In death and grief. As we get older in my experience anyhow. Due to the progressive nature of m.s.complicating. getting through things.. I've found such a fear. In later life and m.s. n this video is the exact reason. I had made u a video and sent it to Twitter. Just very recently. It was very difficult for me to make due to the subject matter. But my hope was you would understand my question I'm asking at the end.i used a program to make it so it should be very easy to follow there's even chapters . It's just 5 mins long. I also very much understand the amount of questions and content u must get. And it's ok I'd u don't get to it also. Sincerely, Divine Thanks again for all your continued hard work I very much appreciate what u stand for to this m.s. community. As a whole. 💯🤓

[@andreawheatley5528]

I really worry about brain shrinkage. I have been on Ocrevus for a year now, and it seems that it slowed, but before that, on 4 other different DMT's, it was shrinking.

[@mbl36]

Can you address MS induced scoliosis? PPMS. Left ab looks deformed. Two PTS said spine is crooked. Xrays don't show?

[@MiaJ-t3s]

I got PAO surgery on my hip at 39, now I’m 40 and year later my bone didn’t heal yet. I’ve been feeling for about 7 years like I have MS but I don’t know for sure if I have it. My Dexabone test three years ago showed normal.

[@anthonypetit7984]

Excellent topic! You mentioned over-medication; what about medication timing? Are there medications that shouldn’t be taken at the same time, or have interactions of note when taken together?

[@roberture5903]

Hello Anthony, I found out the hard way earlier this summer that it's not a great idea to take Baclofen and Gabapentin together. I took 1 of each one night about an hour before bed and for the next couple days I experienced nausea dizziness combined.

[@ccgt6667]

So, you would suggest that older people would stay on first line therapies? Say, people who at their early 50s took Lemtrada, would start taking IFNBs, GA, teriflunomide, and dimethyl fumarate, for the rest of their lives, right?