Apple Podcasts | Spotify 

When Did Your MS Actually Begin?

You may remember the exact day you were diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. But have you ever wondered when it really began? According to recent research, brain shrinkage associated with MS could start five years before the first noticeable symptoms and potentially up to a decade before an official diagnosis.

Let that sink in.

Your immune system could be attacking your brain silently for years, long before you feel the fatigue, the tingles, or the brain fog. This is both unsettling and validating for those of us who knew something was wrong long before we had a name for it.

But if you already have MS, you might be wondering: Why does this matter now?

Because understanding what’s happening in your brain can help you take better steps to protect it starting today.

What Causes Brain Atrophy in MS?

The brain shrinkage linked to MS, also known as brain atrophy can happen for a number of reasons:

• Neurodegeneration: MS causes progressive damage to nerve cells and their connections.
• Demyelination: Loss of myelin and repeated cycles of repair damage brain structure.
• Age-related factors: Natural brain aging accelerates when MS is involved.
• Lesion load: More or larger lesions can mean more significant shrinkage.

In short, the brain doesn’t just slow down with MS, it physically changes. But the severity and speed of those changes vary widely from person to person.

Factors That Influence Brain Atrophy

Everyone’s MS story is different, but here are some key factors that may influence the rate of brain volume loss:

• Type of MS: Progressive forms often see more pronounced atrophy.
• Disease duration: The longer you’ve had MS, the more likely you are to experience shrinkage.
• Age at diagnosis: Older age can compound the effects of MS-related brain loss.
• Disease activity: Active inflammation may speed up brain shrinkage.
• Treatment response: Some disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can slow the process.
• Lifestyle habits: Diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management all play a role.

How Does Brain Shrinkage Affect Daily Life?

Brain atrophy doesn’t just show up on MRI reports. It can affect your daily life in very real ways:

• Cognitive function: Memory, focus, problem-solving, and processing speed can take a hit.
• Physical ability: Mobility, coordination, and balance may decline.
• Symptom severity: Shrinkage can lead to more intense symptoms and relapses.
• Emotional health: Many experience more anxiety, depression, and emotional overwhelm.
• Treatment impact: Severe brain atrophy may influence how well treatments work.

So What Can You Do About It?

Here’s the encouraging part: while you may not be able to reverse brain shrinkage, you can take steps to protect and support your brain health.

Practical Strategies to Slow Brain Atrophy in MS:

• Use DMTs strategically: Work with your neurologist to choose the right treatment.
• Get regular MRIs: Monitoring changes helps your care team make timely decisions.
• Nourish your brain: Eat real, whole foods, especially anti-inflammatory options.
• Move daily: Physical activity supports cognitive and emotional health.
• Prioritize sleep: Rest is where healing happens. Don’t skip it.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress is a brain disruptor. Practice mindfulness, breathing, or prayer.
• Train your brain: Puzzles, reading, and new learning can support neuroplasticity.
• Stay connected: Social interaction is fuel for emotional and cognitive wellness.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s consistency. Even the smallest healthy habit can be a powerful step toward long-term brain health.

Why Consistency Matters

We often wait to act until symptoms demand our attention. But just because you can’t feel something doesn’t mean it’s not happening. The brain changes that come with MS may be silent at first, but they are significant.

So whether you’re focused on your diet, movement, supplements, or stress levels, stay consistent. Build daily habits that protect your brain and support your healing.

Because managing MS isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about starting with what you can do and doing it consistently.

Want More Encouragement Like This?
Tune into this week’s special episode of My MS Podcast: 🎧 When the Brain Starts Shrinking with MS Listen now to My MS Podcast