Do I need to tell my employer I have MS?

You are not required to say that you have MS. However, if the information you provide is not sufficient to determine that you have a qualified disability under the ADA, your employer has the right to ask for more detailed information — which may lead to disclosure of your diagnosis.


Can a company fire you for having MS?

No. You cannot be fired because you were diagnosed with MS or requested reasonable accommodations. While your employer can fire you because you cannot perform the position with reasonable accommodations, they cannot fire you because of your MS. They first must try to accommodate you so you can continue to work.

Can you work a normal job with MS?

Overview. People living with MS often continue working long after their diagnosis. On the flip side, some people with MS decide to leave their jobs when they are first diagnosed or experience their first major exacerbation, often at the suggestion of their family or doctor.


Is MS classed as a serious illness?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and/or spinal cord. It can cause symptoms like problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance. It's a lifelong condition that can sometimes cause serious disability.

How does MS affect your job?

Recent research shows fatigue and cognitive impairment as the two main reasons why an employee with multiple sclerosis (MS) has to change their job, reduce hours, or retire early. The implication from the research is that MS affects employment status before physical disabilities even set in.


Should I Tell My Employer I Have MS? | Decisions



Can you hold a job with MS?

You can work with MS. Many people who have it stay in their job for years after they're diagnosed. It varies greatly from person to person. In time, you may need to ask for accommodations so you can continue there.

What are MS sufferers entitled to?

Access to Work is a government scheme to help pay for any extra equipment or support you need as a result of your MS, so you can do your job. This could be to help you start work, stay in work, or move into self-employment.

What's the average lifespan of a person with MS?

Average life span of 25 to 35 years after the diagnosis of MS is made are often stated. Some of the most common causes of death in MS patients are secondary complications resulting from immobility, chronic urinary tract infections, compromised swallowing and breathing.


Does having MS mean you are disabled?

Is everyone with MS protected? Yes. Some conditions like cancer, HIV and MS are automatically seen as disabilities under the Equality Act.

Is MS classed as high risk for Covid?

MS and coronavirus (COVID-19) – what are the risks? Early research indicates that having multiple sclerosis (MS) in itself doesn't increase your risk of getting COVID-19. But some people with MS could be at greater risk of getting coronavirus, or of complications if they catch it.

Does MS make you tired all the time?

Fatigue - an overwhelming tiredness - is one of the most common invisible symptoms of MS. Some people find it's the symptom that affects them most.


Does working make MS worse?

Having a chronic disease like MS can establish a new source of stress. But stress can stem from other sources, including work, personal relationships, or financial worries. Too much stress may worsen your MS symptoms. How to avoid: Find a relaxing, stress-reducing activity that you enjoy.

Will MS affect my car insurance?

Car insurance

However, be aware that if you choose not to disclose that you have MS, some insurers may decide not to provide you with a quote as it's more difficult for them to estimate the level of risk you pose if they aren't aware of what your medical condition is.

Can I get a Blue Badge if I have MS?

If you're disabled or have a health condition that affects your mobility, you can apply for a Blue Badge. You can also apply for a badge if you care for a child with a health condition that affects their mobility.


Can people with MS drive?

Many people with MS can drive normally, but others may need adaptive equipment. Some people with multiple sclerosis may have to stop driving altogether for safety concerns. The best way to find out if it's safe for you to drive is to get evaluated by a driving rehabilitation specialist.

Can you live 40 years with MS?

Many people with MS may live for 25 to 35 years or longer after their diagnosis. Survival is improving in MS patients, but chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, depression, or diabetes may lower life expectancy in MS.

Can you drink alcohol with MS?

Alcohol's Effect on MS Symptoms

Even one drink can make issues like unsteadiness worse. “If you have a lot of trouble with balance, thinking, or memory symptoms from MS, it may be better to avoid alcohol altogether,” says Graves. Alcohol can also lead to sleep problems and worsen bladder symptoms.


Does MS cause weight gain?

It's also common for people with MS to gain weight due to their symptoms. It's important to try and reach a moderate weight and maintain it. Being overweight or underweight can worsen MS symptoms.

When Should MS patients stop driving?

There is currently no specific guideline for when individuals with MS should stop driving. MS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The Expanded Disability Status Scale is used to describe the progression of MS. As the EDSS rating increases from 0 to 10, the ability to continue with safe driving decreases.

Can I claim any benefits with MS?

You may not feel disabled, but if you have MS, you can claim to be legally disabled from the date of your diagnosis. There are several different benefits which may be available to you if you have a disability or care needs due to your MS, even if you are currently working.


What worsens multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) triggers that worsen symptoms or cause a relapse can include stress, heart disease and smoking. While some are easier to avoid than others, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and overall health and wellness can have outsized benefits for MS patients.

How important is rest with MS?

It is essential that people with MS get enough rest. Establishing a good bedtime routine will help ensure they get restful sleep. MS can cause debilitating fatigue. Although getting plenty of sleep can help, one symptom of fatigue is waking up from rest feeling unrefreshed.

Should you stay active with MS?

People with MS can benefit from at least 30 minutes of physical activity at least three days a week. For someone with MS , exercise that's too aggressive can bring on severe fatigue and injury and exacerbate symptoms.


Can you rebuild muscle with MS?

You'll Build Muscle Strength and Function

Resistance training (with bodyweight, free weights, or machines) and swimming are effective ways to build and maintain strength in exercisers with MS, says Ashley Davis, C.P.T., a trainer with Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital in Wheaton, IL.

How can I stop my MS from progressing?

Lifestyle Changes That May Help Slow MS Progression
  1. Stick With Your Treatment.
  2. Exercise.
  3. Eat a Healthy Diet.
  4. Vitamin D.
  5. Get Restful Sleep.
  6. Don't Smoke.
  7. Get Vaccinated.
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