Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition impacting the brain and spinal cord, disrupting central nervous system communication. This leads to varied symptoms. People with MS often wonder how alcohol consumption might affect their condition. This article explores alcohol’s potential effects on MS symptoms, medication interactions, and how to make informed choices.
Alcohol’s Impact on MS Symptoms
Alcohol can affect various common MS symptoms, sometimes exacerbating existing challenges. Fatigue, a frequent MS symptom, can worsen as alcohol interferes with sleep patterns. Alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant, contributing to increased tiredness.
Balance and coordination are often impaired in individuals with MS due to nerve damage. Alcohol further compromises these functions, increasing the risk of falls. Even a single drink may temporarily worsen these issues.
Regarding spasticity, alcohol might initially provide temporary muscle relaxation. However, this effect can be misleading, as alcohol can lead to rebound spasticity or dehydration, potentially worsening muscle stiffness and tightness.
Bladder dysfunction affects about 80% of people with MS. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production and potentially worsening urinary urgency, frequency, and nocturia. This can disrupt sleep and daily comfort.
Cognitive function, including concentration, memory, and information processing, can be affected by MS, leading to “brain fog.” Alcohol can further impair these abilities, compounding existing difficulties. Its depressant effects slow thinking and responses.
Mood can also be impacted, as depression and anxiety are common in people with MS. Alcohol can have a depressive effect on the brain. While it may offer a temporary mood boost, its overall effect can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety long-term.
Alcohol and MS Medication Interactions
Alcohol can interact with various medications commonly prescribed for MS, potentially increasing side effects or affecting drug effectiveness. Many interactions involve the liver, which metabolizes both alcohol and many medications.
Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)
DMTs aim to slow MS progression. Oral DMTs, for instance, may have reduced absorption if taken with alcohol. Some oral DMTs can also cause abnormal liver function, and combining them with alcohol could increase this risk. Injectable DMTs can cause alcohol intolerance as an infrequent side effect, leading to symptoms like skin flushing or low blood pressure. Infused DMTs generally have no specific warnings regarding alcohol, but any medication can affect liver health.
Symptom Management Medications
Muscle relaxants, used for spasticity, are central nervous system depressants. Combining them with alcohol can intensify side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of falls.
Pain medications, including opioids and neuropathic pain drugs, can have their sedative effects amplified by alcohol, leading to increased drowsiness and dizziness, and a higher risk of breathing problems or overdose.
Antidepressants, prescribed for mood disorders in MS, can have their benefits counteracted by alcohol, potentially worsening depression and anxiety. Some antidepressants can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure when consumed with certain alcoholic beverages.
Medications for bladder issues can also interact with alcohol, as alcohol can increase side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, or restlessness.
Making Informed Choices About Alcohol Consumption
Discussing alcohol consumption with a neurologist or healthcare team is advisable for individuals with MS. Open communication allows for personalized guidance based on specific symptoms, medication regimens, and overall health.
Moderation is a common recommendation, though individual responses to alcohol vary significantly for people with MS. Even small amounts can trigger or worsen symptoms for some. Moderate drinking is typically defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. A standard drink is 12 ounces of 5% alcohol beer, 5 ounces of 12% alcohol wine, or 1.5 ounces of 40% alcohol distilled spirits.
Monitoring personal reactions to alcohol is important for individuals with MS to identify if it exacerbates their specific symptoms. If adverse effects are consistently noticed, avoiding alcohol may be the most suitable choice.
General risks associated with alcohol consumption, such as dehydration and impaired judgment, can be amplified in individuals with MS. Dehydration can worsen MS symptoms like fatigue. Impaired judgment from alcohol can also increase the risk of accidents or injuries.
For those who choose to reduce or eliminate alcohol, various non-alcoholic alternatives are available, including non-alcoholic beers, wines, spirits, sparkling waters, and mocktails. Resources for support are also available for individuals who find it challenging to reduce or stop drinking.