Does MS treatment cause weight gain?

For some people who have multiple sclerosis (MS), the treatments involved with controlling symptoms can definitely cause weight gain.

Patients that are prescribed the steroids glucocorticoids may experience this. They’re used to manage relapses thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties, but their consumption can cause fluid retention. This is a temporary weight gain however, and should go away once treatment has stopped.

Other MS treatment that can cause weight gain incudes pregabalin (Lyrica) and gabapentin (Neurontin). Certain anti-depressants can also cause you to put on weight.

As well as MS treatments, there are many other reasons the condition might cause you to see the numbers on the scales rise. Fatigue is a common symptom, estimated to affect 80% of people with MS.

Experiencing fatigue might mean you’d rather slump on the sofa of an evening then grab your gym bag and head out of the door. On top of this, you might be too tired to cook healthy meals every day and more likely to order a takeaway.

It’s a cruel irony that MS causes fatigue and yet can also prevent you getting enough sleep. A lack of shut-eye is directly linked to weight gain. Not getting enough slumber disrupts the hormones responsible for hunger and satiety (feeling full). This means you’re much more likely to reach for the biscuit tin on a regular basis when you’ve not had a good night’s kip. Lack of sleep also diminishes your willpower to resist tasty treats so you’re more likely to snack, which can lead to weight gain.

Over-eating and not wanting to exercise or do much in general can also be symptoms of depression. Up to half of people with MS could experience depression at some point in their lives. Speak to your GP if you are frequently experiencing low moods.

Exercise and MS

You may be put off exercising because it can raise your body temperature which can in turn temporarily exacerbate your MS symptoms. Heat intolerance in MS happens because changes in body temperature can affect the speed that electrical signals travel along the nerves. To combat this, wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing, exercise in the early morning or evening in the summer when the temperature is cooler, and try to find an unheated pool to swim in if you can. You can also get cooling devices to wear round your neck which provide heat relief. If you’re exercising at home, do so in front of a fan.

Numerous studies have proven the benefits of exercising with MS, including improving symptoms, mood, mobility and muscle strength. And of course, the more exercise you do, the more calories you will burn, helping to keep your weight under control.

With MS-UK’S Online Activities you can try accessible exercise at a range of ability levels – there’s everything from chair yoga to seated Qi Gong. The best bit is you can take part without leaving the comfort of your own home – all you need is a computer or tablet and an internet connection.