Is Alcohol Bad For Multiple Sclerosis Individuals?

Alcohol does have some effect on people suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It has been reported that MS patients claim that some of their neurological symptoms temporarily worsen after even one alcoholic drink. Lack of coordination and imbalance are common trends.
Alcohol is a depressant and therefore depresses the central nervous system. Because of this it may also have an effect with certain MS medications such as baclofen, diazepam, clonazepam and some antidepressants. People should consult with their physician before drinking alcohol. Some doctors claim that alcohol suppresses the immune system and that MS symptoms could worsen after drinking alcohol. It does seem that moderation is the key, whether you have MS or not.
Moderate drinking is classed as no more than 2 or 3 standard drinks per drinking session, and no more than 9 drinks per week for women, or 12 drinks per week for men. A standard drink is classed as 12 oz beer, 5 oz wine or 1.5 oz of spirits. It is recommended that people eat before they drink, stay well hydrated and to avoid drinking altogether when feeling ill.
There have been a few studies carried out into the effect of alcohol on MS patients. One carried out by Bombardier in 2004 found that younger, employed, less disabled, and depressed patients are at a higher risk from alcohol abuse compared to other MS patients. The research of another study, carried out by Carrie Lyn Sammarco in 2007, found that there was a strong link between the presence of a family history of mental illness and prominent anxiety with MS patients who regularly abused alcohol. To clarify it seems that alcohol affects some MS users more than others and that moderation is necessary, although during particular bad periods people with MS should avoid alcohol altogether.

I have MS and  when I drink my numbness, tingling, dizziness and fatigue go away.  I know drinking is probably a cover up, but when you feel as sick as I do at times...you will do anything to feel better.

I was diagnosed with MS just 6 month ago. I agree with many of the comments that alcohol can be very harmful to our bodies in excess.....however I find it can really be very calming to live as normal as I can and at times the experience of good friends, family and a social drink is not only helpful for me to live as I have in the past but actually helpful to those closest to me to understand I will go on and be the positive open person I have always tried to be.

My daughter was diagnosed with MS last year. At first she avoided alcohol because she was already having balance issues. Her neurologist has said she may consume alcohol in very moderate amounts. She has a cocktail on special occasions, and sometimes notices that her balance is actually better after a drink.

I too have ms and find that a glass of wine in the evenings actually helps a lot! It helps reduce stress and I have even noticed that the day after having alcohol my symptoms are less. The times I have gone to bed early and not had a glass of wine I have actually felt more tired and worse symptoms the next day which doesn't seem to make any sense. Everyone seems to say avoid alcohol with ms but I'm wondering if it actually helps in moderation?!

Goodness - isn't it all a question of moderation? Obviously don't drink until you're unable to stand, and if balance is an issue stick to non alcoholic when out...but a glass or two of good red wine with some good food can be uplifting for the spirits and God knows anyone with MS needs that sometimes. Better than  drugs or depression...

I was diagnosed 10 years ago and quickly found that nobody actually knows what's good or bad for MS. I do drink regularly but I use common sense - something the so called experts seem far to quick to forget we have! I wish you luck.

I find that alcohol has a greater impact, a very little goes a long way. A small amount creates a significant improvement in mood and has overall a positive general improvement physical well being. This from some one who generally disliked alcohol consumption. Don't have MS don't make a judgement.

I was diagnosed with MS last year. When I have a glass of wine on special occasions, and sometimes notices that my symptoms (tingling in feet and hand and walking) are actually better after a drink and the day after.

If anyone cares, my father has MS.  The doctor told him he could have a small amount at night to help with pain.  To make a long story short, he had a heart attack (so much for the "wine is good for the heart" theory.)  He survived, but 48 hours later in the hospital without his daily glass of red... He went into the DTs.  It was touch and go for 3 days.  The doctors say he's lucky to still be alive.  So no more wine for him.

"Alcohol is NEVER good, whether you are healthy or not. It has a negative effect on all systems in your body. Good luck to you."

Actually red wine is good for your heart. People in France have one of the lowest rate of heart disease, where they consume wine. As long as you do so in moderation.

Alcohol has direct or indirect effect on your health that leads in loss of health especially when you are diagnosed with ms so you should avoid use of alcohol for good health.

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant.  If you have problems with balance, coordination, etc, it will exacerbate or magnify those problems.  Drink at your own detriment!