Why Your MS Symptoms Aren’t Improving—And What to Do

You’re working hard on healing your multiple sclerosis (MS). You’re doing so many things right! But it’s frustrating when progress slows down or symptoms get worse. It can feel discouraging when you’re not seeing the results you hoped for. I get it—I’ve been there too.

You’ve already put so much effort into your healing. It’s important to stay positive. Try not to get discouraged. When it comes to MS, there are many pieces to the puzzle. It’s not just about your central nervous system (CNS). Your entire body plays a role.

Sometimes hidden factors can slow healing, even when you’re doing everything right. If your MS symptoms aren’t improving, it could be due to factors you haven’t considered yet. Below are some possible reasons why your body might not be healing as expected.

1. The Stress Connection

Stress can take a toll on your body, even if you’re not feeling stressed right now. Past stress can leave lasting effects on your nervous system and adrenal glands. It may also impact your overall health. This can make healing harder.

Here’s how you can help your body recover from stress:

• Support your nervous system. Deep breathing or splashing cold water on your face can help reset your system. Vagus nerve stimulation is another helpful technique such as humming or meditation.
• Focus on adrenal health. Herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and licorice root can support adrenal healing. They help your body recover from stress. These herbs support your body during stress.
• Start your day calmly. Quiet activities like journaling, meditation, or time outside can create a peaceful tone. They help you feel grounded.
• Lower inflammation: Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables and whole foods.
• Consider supplements. B vitamins, curcumin, ginger, omega-3s, and zinc may reduce inflammation caused by stress. Always check with your doctor before starting a new supplement.

When I was tested for cortisol levels, I was going through a lot of stress. I expected my cortisol to be high, but to my surprise, it was low. This was due to adrenal fatigue. Chronic stress left my adrenal glands so exhausted they stopped making enough cortisol.

To support adrenal recovery, try including these foods in your diet:

• Avocados: Packed with healthy fats and potassium.
• Sweet Potatoes: Provide slow-burning carbs to balance blood sugar.
• Nuts and Seeds. Almonds, sunflower seeds, and chia seeds are rich in magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats.
• Coconut Water: Full of electrolytes for hydration and recovery.
• Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard are great sources of magnesium.

2. Gut Health and Absorption Issues

Poor gut health is another hidden reason MS symptoms aren’t improving, as it affects nutrient absorption and overall healing. Your body might still miss key nutrients even with good nutrition and supplements. This can happen if your gut isn’t absorbing them properly. Research shows that people with MS often have more harmful gut bacteria. This is compared to those without MS.

Your gut health plays a big role in healing. Here are some signs of a healthy gut:

• Regular bowel movements.
• Normal stool (check out the Bristol Stool Chart for reference).
• Digesting food without discomfort.
• Steady energy levels throughout the day, without relying on caffeine or naps.

If you experience brain fog, it could be a sign of poor gut health affecting how your body absorbs nutrients.

Common gut issues that can interfere with healing include leaky gut. Other problems include Candida overgrowth, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), and H. pylori. Testing can confirm these, but here are some key signs to watch for:

• Leaky Gut: Food sensitivities, bloating, fatigue, brain fog, or joint pain.
• SIBO: Bloating (even after small meals), diarrhea, or constipation.
• Candida Overgrowth: Sugar cravings, brain fog, skin issues, or recurrent yeast infections.
• H. pylori: Stomach pain, nausea, reflux, or bloating.

If testing isn’t an option, don’t worry—you can still take steps to support your gut health.

Steps to Improve Gut Health

• Eat more fruits and vegetables! They’re packed with fiber, reduce inflammation, and help repair the gut lining.
• Focus on plant-based foods. A diet rich in plants can naturally heal and strengthen your gut.
• Eat anti-inflammatory foods, this can calm your gut and aid in digestion.

Taking care of your gut is important for healing. Small changes, like adding more vegetables to your meals, can make a big difference!

3. Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Image by ijeab on Freepik

Mitochondria are the energy powerhouses of your cells. MS is closely tied to mitochondrial health. Stress or injury, like a sprain or fracture, can drain their energy reserves. But you can support your mitochondria with small, simple steps:

• Exercise regularly: Movement keeps your mitochondria strong.
• Eat antioxidant-rich foods: Include berries, leafy greens, and colorful vegetables.
• Take key supplements: CoQ10 and B vitamins can boost energy production.
• Get morning sunlight: This helps your circadian rhythm and improves mitochondrial function.
• Prioritize sleep: Sleep is essential for repairing your cells, including your mitochondria.
• Focus on gut health: A healthy gut supports better mitochondrial function.
• Limit toxins: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins protects your mitochondria.

Small changes like these can make a big difference. Your mitochondria power your body, so keeping them healthy is key to healing.

4. Address Inflammation in the CNS

Inflammation in the CNS is one reason why MS symptoms aren’t improving, even when you’re doing everything right. If you’re experiencing symptoms, your CNS might still be inflamed. Continue working on reducing overall inflammation – very important! Here are some tips specifically for supporting the CNS:

• High-dose omega-3s. Take at least 2,000-3,000 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily. I use Omega Plus by Thorne.
• Curcumin with bioperine. If you tolerate it, curcumin is highly anti-inflammatory and crosses the blood-brain barrier. I take Curcumin Phytosome by Thorne.
• Low-level red light therapy. This can help reduce CNS inflammation. You can find many on Amazon, I use the Beurer IL50 Red Light Therapy device.

These steps can make a big difference for your CNS. Consistency is key to seeing improvements!

5. Microbial or Pathogen Overload

A 20-year study found that Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is the main cause of MS. But EBV isn’t the only factor. Other pathogens, like Lyme disease or its co-infections, can also play a role.

Sometimes, these infections need more targeted treatment. Testing can help identify what’s affecting your body.

It was through addressing EBV that I saw many of my symptoms disappear. Reducing pathogen overload can greatly aid your healing. Taking these steps can make a big difference.

6. Balance and Bladder Challenges

Neurological symptoms often mean the nerves aren’t working as they should. This can happen because of inflammation or damaged myelin. It may also result from problems with how nerves send signals to the brain.

To support nerve health, try these tips:

• Eat foods or take supplements rich in vitamin B12 and omega-3s. These help repair and maintain the myelin sheath.
• Add antioxidants to your diet, they protect nerves from stress and damage.
• Doing gentle movements such as stretching or yoga improves blood flow to your nerves.
• Practice relaxation techniques. Deep breathing or meditation calms your nervous system and reduces stress.

Here are some key supplements to consider:

• Vitamin B12 with both methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin helps repair myelin. Adenosylcobalamin supports energy production in cells. Together, they provide full B12 support for nerve and mitochondrial health. This is important for people with MS.
• Omega-3 fatty acids with EPA and DHA. Both types of omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation in the CNA to help maintain healthy myelin.

Small steps can greatly improve nerve health. They can also help ease symptoms.

7. Missing Movement

Image by senivpetro on Freepik

When you’re living with MS, movement is so important! It keeps your body active and helps in many ways. Movement improves circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and nerves. It also supports lymphatic drainage, helping your body clear toxins and reduce inflammation. Regular movement strengthens your muscles, improves flexibility, and can even boost your mood. Even small, consistent efforts can make a big difference in how you feel.

• Improves circulation. Movement brings oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and nerves.
• Supports lymphatic drainage. This helps your body remove toxins and waste.
• Boosts mitochondrial health. Exercise gives your cells the energy they need to repair and function better.

When MS symptoms aren’t improving, it’s worth revisiting your daily movement routine to make sure your body is staying active. Even small amounts of gentle exercise can make a big difference. Stretching, walking, or yoga are great options. The key is to find something you enjoy and can do consistently—even if it’s just a few minutes a day. Every little bit helps your body stay strong.

Try adding:

• Gentle stretches or yoga, support nerve health and mobility.
• Rebounding or lymphatic support, light bouncing (even seated) can stimulate lymphatic flow. If tolerated, standing on a vibration plate works too!

Consistency is what matters most. Keep moving in a way that feels good for you!

8. Nutritional Gaps

Eating more vegetables gives your body the nutrients it needs to heal. But getting enough can sometimes feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—small changes can make a big difference!

Here are some tips to boost your nutrient intake:

• Add a variety of fruits and vegetables. Rotate fruits and veggies to get a wide range of phytonutrients. Diversity is key!
• Try phytonutrient powders. Add options like turmeric, dragonfruit, or green powders (like spirulina) for extra nutrients.
• Stock up on frozen fruit and veggies. Keep frozen fruit and vegetables like spinach or kale, in your freezer. They’re quick and easy options when you’re out of fresh produce.

Even small steps, like adding one extra veggie to your meals, can help fill nutritional gaps. Consistency is what matters most!

9. Hormonal Balance

Image by ArthurHidden on Freepik

If your MS symptoms aren’t improving, consider whether hormonal imbalances could be slowing your progress. Stress, aging, and MS can impact hormones like cortisol, estrogen, and thyroid. These changes can affect overall health. These hormones play a big role in healing. Changes from the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause can also impact your hormones. If progress feels slow, a hormonal imbalance might be part of the reason.

Here are some natural ways to support hormonal balance:

• Eat a nutrient-dense diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods.
• Manage stress: Relaxation techniques like deep breathing can help.
• Get quality sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night.
• Exercise regularly: Gentle movement supports hormone regulation.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential.
• Include healthy fats: Add sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
• Support your gut health: A healthy gut is key to balanced hormones.

Small, consistent steps can help restore hormonal balance. They play a big role in supporting your healing. Over time, these changes can make a noticeable difference.

10. Environmental Toxins

Toxins like mold or VOCs might be why your MS symptoms aren’t improving, even after switching to non-toxic products. Mold and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common culprits. It’s important to stay aware of hidden sources. These can impact your health and slow healing.

Here are common ways mold or VOCs can enter your home:

• Leaky roofs or windows
• Poor ventilation or high humidity
• Flooding or water damage
• Carpeting or rugs in damp areas
• HVAC systems with clogged filters
• Household cleaning products or air fresheners
• Paints, varnishes, and adhesives
• New furniture or flooring materials
• Stored items in damp basements or attics
• Indoor plants with overwatered soil

Take steps to identify and reduce these sources of toxins. Simple changes can create a healthier home. Improving ventilation or using non-toxic products can make a big difference. These small steps help reduce toxins in your space.

Moving Forward

Image by Freepik

It’s frustrating when your body isn’t healing as quickly as you’d like. You might feel like you’re doing everything right, but progress still feels slow. Sometimes, the missing piece is something small or easy to overlook.

It could be a nutrient your body needs or old stress it hasn’t released. Sometimes, it’s as simple as not drinking enough water. Identifying these factors can support your healing. Healing isn’t a straight path. It takes time to figure out what your body needs most. Be kind to yourself. Every little step you take brings you closer to feeling better.

Tracking your symptoms can help identify patterns and reasons why your MS symptoms aren’t improving. Here are some ideas to help pinpoint what’s missing:

• Keep a journal: Track your symptoms, diet, exercise, and emotions. Look for patterns over time.
• Support your body: Focus on gut health, mitochondria, and your nervous system.
• Consider functional health testing: If possible, testing can uncover hidden factors. I’ve used Walk-In Lab for blood tests when needed.

You’re doing an amazing job staying proactive. Healing takes patience and persistence, but you’re getting closer every day. Stay encouraged—you’ve already come so far!

Keep up the incredible work—you’ve got this! 😊💪

Want to remember this health tip? Pin it to your Pinterest board!

Image by Freepik

Why Your MS Symptoms Aren’t Improving—And What to Do