Following Christina Applegate's appearance at the Emmys last night, more people than ever are becoming aware of the signs and symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
MS is a lifelong condition which affects both the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of varying symptoms including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance, muscle stiffness, numbness and problems with thinking, learning and planning.
The condition is currently under the spotlight following Applegate's speech at the Emmys, which comes three years after her diagnosis with the condition.
The Anchorman and Dead to Me star took to the stage with a cane to present the first award of the night, and was welcomed with a sea of applause.
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The 52-year-old jokingly said: "Oh my god, you're totally shaming me with disability by standing up. It's fine."
As with most health conditions, some people are more vulnerable than others and certain factors may increase your risk of developing MS, as well as there being lesser-known signs to look out for.
As well as the main obstacles brought on by MS, the condition can also affect your intimacy and sexual health.
Though these symptoms may be less known, it is important to be aware of what they are:
Sexual Problems
Some of the ways MS can impact your sex life include erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, numbness and overall loss of libido.
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MS can have an emotional and mental effect, causing pain, depression and fatigue that can make the condition hard to talk about with loved ones or a medical professional.
Physical changes
Sexual arousal begins in the central nervous system (CNS), so if the nerves have been damaged by MS it means the brain cannot send messages to sexual organs as efficiently.
Therefore, men and women can both struggle to have an orgasm, with men suffering with an inability to ejaculate while women can have difficulties with arousal and sexual pain.
Emotional changes
Numerous emotional factors can also contribute to sexual dysfunction in those with MS.
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Anxiety, anger, depression, decreased self-esteem and even the overall stress of living with a chronic illness can negatively impact your sexual health.
It can also impact the dynamics of your relationship with your significant other.
Treating Sexual Dysfunction due to MS
The most common issue suffered by men is the inability to achieve an erection, which be treated through medications, injections of a papaverine or a MUSE urethral suppository.
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Women tend to suffer the most from a reduced sensation and vaginal dryness.
This can be treated with the use of sex toys, lubricants or clitoral pumps which suction around the clitoris and help with sexual arousal.
If you’re living with MS and need emotional support or information about the disorder, call MS Society’s Helpline for free Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm (except bank holidays) on 0808 800 8000 or visit their website
Joshua Nair