Working and MS

Welcome-  I think we probably all 'lurk' around a bit before we post the first time.  And for me there are times where the hands won't type so well, so I mostly read and get a lot of information and comfort from that.  From what i have learned from the National MS Society, most people with MS can still work.  Sometimes they might need a different job or reasonable accomodations.  My first exacerbation was so bad I could not work for 5 months, but I had been in graduate school at the time and so had not been reliant on a paycheck.  I sneaked out a few more student loans.  Then I was so nervous about working that i took a seasonal job at JC Penneys just to see how it went. Next a part-time with flexible hours for a non-profit.  The flexibility was great.  I have not had any major exacerbations, just little or previous things that come and go.  I work 36 hours a week (requested instead of 40) and asked for accomodations for different lighting, computer equipment and a personal cooling unit.  Going through a human resources and having a doctor letter to back up your reasonable accomodations is important.  I am also able to schedule 'field' work in the mornings before it's hot and office work in the afternoons.  A good employer will work to keep a good employee.  But....I suppose that is all not possible when you are waiting on a diagnosis of what is going on.  Maybe someone else has suggestions for right now.  Willow

If you have any advice on living with the vertigo then I'd be grateful. The main thing for me is learning my limitations. Unfortunately I learned the hard way as I tend to be a bit stubborn as I don't want to let it stop me from doing anything but no regrets or complaints! :)

I find shopping the most difficult; something about going up and down the aisles. Sometimes I think that people look at me thinking that I am drunk. Thankfully my husband and I can take this and joke a bit about it instead of taking it to heart. He has been a fabulous source of support!


I'd also be interested in the types of jobs good for people with MS. What affects my working most is the dizziness, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Some days I am great and others I feel useless. It's a bit unpredictable for me at this point.


Thank you again!

Hey Capa,

I have not found any meds that help with vertigo.  I have found that turning and moving carefully helps.  I use a cane when I want to walk anywhere and look up.  If I am walking without my cane, I have to look at the ground about 12 feet in front of me.  I have lots of little tricks that help me.  I try to touch something not moving while standing.  I will have my lower leg against a wall, cabinet or sturdy table/chair.  I use handrails always.  I lightly drag fingers along a wall, that sort of thing.  I have a lot of trouble when walking in a crowd of people.  I must have my cane or someone's elbow.  That someone needs to move carefully and I have to hold onto them not the other way around. 

Good luck, I hope you find something there that helps.