Hi albrecht,
Putting on weight seems to be an unfortunate consequence of MS ( which is of itself unfortunate!), and I don’t know of many sufferers, myself included, who have not gone down that road. Whilst I cant speak for the experiences of others, I can tell you how its affected me.
Like you I am on a number of drugs that have caused weight gain and batches of steroids down the years haven’t helped. If you find those drugs helpful in managing your condition then the benefits outweigh the consequences, but things can be done to mitigate the effects.
I find weight gain is due to a combination of a lack of ability to exercise, overeating and constipation.If you cant exercise the other two problems have to be .
With regard to diet, I’ve recently discovered that I suffer from Hashimoto’s Disease ( my thyroid is seriously under active as a result, leading to feelings of sloth, and a ravenous appetite), and familial hypercholesterolaemia, so I’ve seriously amended my diet, cutting out red meat completely, eating more fish, chicken fruit vegetables nuts and pulses. I’ve cut out sugary drinks and swapped it for bottled water, and limit my caffeine fix to two cups of coffee a day ( no caffeine after 5 helps me sleep much better!) I also try not to snack between meals and if I must, its on fruit, not on biscuits or cake or sandwiches. I certainly no longer eat Pizza, Chinese, Indian or anything from Burger King or McDonalds. As a result, I’ve lost over a stone in weight, and am determined to carry on. I’d suggest you take a look at the Mediterranean diet or a diet for ms - perhaps they will be able to help.I’d also ask for a thyroid and lipid check from your doctor, if you haven’t already done so - you may be surprised!
With regard to constipation, I’m on a drug called lubiprostone, which is designed to tackle what doctors euphemistically term ‘slow transit’ bowel action; there are a couple of caveats to its prescription one being that at least two different types of laxatives must have failed to be effective; its also more effective in women, but its worth asking about. I find it very effective, and I’m far less bloated tired and uncomfortable as a consequence.
Have you talked with your continence nurse about peristeen or quofora? These are very effective bowel irrigation systems that might help ; they are a bit fiddly to use at the start, but well worth the perisitence.
Hope this helps!
M x