Cognition In Multiple Sclerosis

We would like to acknowledge that Dr. Monica Margoni, University of Padua, Italy, has acted as a coordinator and has contributed to the preparation of the proposal for this Research Topic.

This volume describes the effects and consequences of multiple sclerosis (MS) on cognition. Authors summarize the impact of MS on behavioral problems, daily living, and related neuropsychiatric disorders, and offer clinical guidance for practitioners.

Difficulties with cognition are an assault on ourselves and our identities. In the context of the unpredictable and often progressive course of multiple sclerosis (MS), reductions in information processing, memory function, and other mental faculties can be a heavy burden for people with MS (PwMS). Fast Facts: Cognition in Multiple Sclerosis was written to support healthcare professionals (HCPs) working in MS clinics and other services. Each chapter is designed to be read as a standalone text. The authors aim with this book is to bring increased understanding and confidence to everyone facing the challenges of dealing with cognitive impairment linked to MS. Table of Contents: • What do cognitive difficulties mean for people with MS and their caregiver partners? • MS cognitive difficulties and their impacts • How do MS cognitive deficits relate to other variables? • Assessment strategies • MS clinic management of cognition I: healthcare professional information and action • MS clinic management of cognition II: people with MS’ engagement, information, and action • Additional specialist input • Difficult conversations

Dear Readers, If you are engaged in the treatment of patients with MS (pwMS), this e-book’s aim is to offer novel insights to improve on an understanding of one of the major problems of pwMS: fatigue. Although there is increasing research into fatigue and its impact on MS, this collection of ten articles supports a better understanding of fatigue in MS patients. It explores pathophysiological concepts, provoking mechanisms, objective measurements, personality interactions, pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions and summarizes clinical management. It is written by neurologists, psychologists, scientists and therapists and addresses this group of people, who deal with pwMS in private, clinical, rehabilitation or scientific settings. Its aim is to communicate high-quality information, knowledge and experience on MS to healthcare professionals, while providing global support for the international MS community.

"When attorney Jeffrey N. Gingold misplaced his wife on the living room couch and lost awareness of his children, little did he know that he was experiencing a hidden symptom of multiple sclerosis: cognitive difficulties. How do you handle getting lost, while driving just blocks from your home? Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis is a courageous and compelling personal account of one man's anguishing struggle with this aspect of the disease. It is written for the silent majority of MS patients who are privately dealing with MS cognitive symptoms and potential disabilities. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society estimates that over 400,000 people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and there are millions more worldwide. Conservatively speaking, half of them will encounter varying degrees of cognitive difficulties. Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis brings this hidden disability into the open. It is an essential resource that will educate individuals coping with multiple sclerosis, and inform their families, caregivers, doctors and therapists. This new edition has been revised with on-point cognitive strategies and updated MS resources. The book includes a new foreword written by Dr. Dawn Langdon of the UK MS Trust and four completely new chapters that follow Jeffrey's journey since 2006. He openly explores some MS physical symptoms, which may accompany the thinking impediments that strike at his cognitive awareness and functions. Jeffrey carves a path of finding physical and cognitive wellness, as well as weighing the need to accept beneficial MS medical therapies. Not only did he become more active in the movement to cure MS, the progression of his MS led to a more controversial MS treatment, in effort to make his disease manageable. Jeffrey also shares the benefits of introducing a œsafety person” into a life with MS and the strength gained from helping others, even while they may be assisting you. Whether or not a person is dealing with the cognitive issues associated with multiple sclerosis this book deserves to be on the bookshelf of every individual who is dealing with multiple sclerosis."

Education about multiple sclerosis has traditionally been medically oriented and related to disease and dysfunction. In contrast, this brand-new second edition of the Guide continues to focus on staying well in the presence of MS, a disease that - while incurable - can be managed. The book covers a broad spectrum of topics related to MS and its effects, focusing especially on the needs of those who have been living with the disease for some time. Practical tips on self-care are designed to promote maximum independence, well-being, and productivity. The theme of the book - wellness - can be described by the acronym: Weighing options; Eating well; Living to your fullest; Learning new skills; Needing others; Evaluating situations realistically; Surviving stress; and Staying responsible. Contributors to the book are professionals who have a specialty or a special interest in MS. Their suggestions, advice, and strategies come from years of experience in the field. It is their hope that readers will come away with fresh ideas on how to cope with the ever-changing challenges of MS.

"This volume consists of 15 stand-alone chapters that each address an important area pertaining to cognition and behavior in persons with MS. The first section of this textbook involves the latest characterization of MS-related cognitive impairment, with chapters on assessment and neuroimaging (i.e., structural and functional neuroimaging). The second section primarily involves the latest research on the mental health/behavioral correlates and consequences of MS-related cognitive impairment. This includes chapters on depression, neuropsychiatric disorders, fatigue, personality problems, activities of daily living, employment, and economic impact, respectively, and cognition in MS. The third section involves a chapter on pediatric-onset MS. This textbook concludes with a section on treatment approaches for MS-related cognitive impairment. This includes separate chapters on pharmacology, cognitive rehabilitation, exercise and physical activity, and cognitive reserve. The first edition of Cognition and Behavior in Multiple Sclerosis provides readers with a collection of the latest research by top scientists, pertaining to a largely understudied aspect of MS. By comprehensively addressing the correlates, consequences, and treatment of cognitive impairment in MS, it is our hope that this volume inspires new lines of clinical and behavioral research to improve the lives of those living with the disease, considering the common, burdensome, and challenging nature of cognitive impairment."--Preface. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Despite the prevalence of disabling cognitive symptoms among people living with multiple sclerosis, there is a dearth of literature on this important topic. Multiple Sclerosis: Understanding the Cognitive Challenges is the first comprehensive discussion of MS-related cognitive dysfunction, including the changes that can occur, their assessment and treatment, and strategies for dealing with their impact in daily life. Written by two clinical psychologists with special expertise in MS, and with contributions by two leading neuropsychologists, the book answers all questions patients may have about their condition, including: A definition of cognition and discussion of the processes that underlie human thought The emotional and social impact of cognitive changes The neuropsychological evaluation of cognitive symptoms Detailed overview of treatment options Vignettes describing the real-life experiences of a person with cognitive dysfunction Extensive references to the scientific literature Combining detailed, referenced advice with hands-on strategies for living, this is the only book to provide in-depth information about cognitive dysfunction. It will be an invaluable reference to patients, families, and caregivers, as well as health professionals who care for people with MS.