MS Podcasts

Join Dr Fatima Kahn, a Menopause specialist who has a holistic approach to women's physical, emotion and mental wellbeing; and Jacqui Perry, MS Physiotherapist as they define menopause and peri-menopause and discuss the management of menopause for women who are going through it. With thanks to Dr Fatima Khan and MS physiotherapist, Jacqui Perry.Read episode transcript hereReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Once it is confirmed you are having a relapse you may be treated in hospital or at home. This episode steps you through the options available to you, the treatments, durations and tips about how to get through a relapse in the most resilient way.PresenterExecutive Manager Client Engagement and Wellbeing Jodi Haartsen is a registered MS Nurse who has helped thousands of patients over her 20 years’ experience at Eastern Health MS service in Australia, in several roles including nurse educator, research nurse and nurse practitioner. Jodi is the 2022 winner of the global MS Brain Health Leader Award in the Independent Healthcare Professionals category.With thanks to Jodi.Episode transcript here: TranscriptReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

In this episode we are discussing the “Road to Recovery” after you have had a relapse. We will cover what to expect post relapse, how long your recovery might take, who can help and what aids and supports are available.PresenterExecutive Manager Client Engagement and Wellbeing Jodi Haartsen is a registered MS Nurse who has helped thousands of patients over her 20 years’ experience at Eastern Health MS service in Australia, in several roles including nurse educator, research nurse and nurse practitioner. Jodi is the 2022 winner of the global MS Brain Health Leader Award in the Independent Healthcare Professionals category.With thanks to MS Nurse Practitioner Jodi Haartsen.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Nurse Advisor Jane talks about what to do if you think you are having a relapse. Who do you call? How urgent is it? What do you need to do? How do you document and communicate effectively what is happening? Lots of great info in 12 short minutes.With thanks to MS Nurse Advisor Jane.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

For many people diagnosed with MS, relapses will be a part of the MS journey. So, what is a relapse? How do you know you're having one? Join MS Nurse Advisor, Jane as she answers these questions and provides strategies on how to best be prepared in the event of experiencing an MS relapse. With thanks to Jane.Read episode transcript hereReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Dr Sally Shaw is a Melbourne based psychologist working in a positive psychology framework with people who have a chronic illness, especially those with multiple sclerosis. Sally herself was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2001. Join Sally as she chats about finding joy and living well with multiple sclerosis. With thanks to Dr Sally Shaw.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Dr Yvonne Learmonth is an Accredited Physiotherapist who specialises in Physical Activity research in multiple sclerosis. She has a PhD in rehabilitation and currently lectures and conducts research in the discipline of Exercise Science at Murdoch University. Yvonne also leads an exercise and cognition research group based at Murdoch University. Yvonne will offer tips based on research and evidence to help you make positive changes in your life.With thanks to Dr Yvonne.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Associate Professor Anneke van der Walt, Neurologist at Alfred Health in Melbourne chats with Jodi Haartsen, Executive Manager at MS Plus about the COVID vaccines that have been approved in Australia and their impact on people living with MS.With thanks to Associate Professor Anneke van der Walt.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Jillian Kingsford Smith is an international best selling author, award winning journalist, a Kiss Goodbye to MS Ambassador, a part of the global Strategic Initiative "Stop and Reverse MS" and, she is a person living with multiple sclerosis. Jillian shares her experience of where her life has taken her since her diagnosis.With thanks to Jillian.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Dr Lucinda Black, Senior Research Fellow and Nutritional Epidemiologist at Curtin University discusses the nutrition and the risk of onset and progression of multiple sclerosis.With thanks to Dr Lucinda Black.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Join University of Sydney Researcher, Dr Ollie Jay and MS Connect Specialist, Emily Austin as they discuss heat intolerance and explore the practical ways of coping with the heat.With thanks to Dr Ollie.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Dr Claudia Marck, Senior Research Fellow at the Disability and Health Unit at University of Melbourne; and Dr Sarah White, Director of Quit Victoria discuss the impact of smoking on multiple sclerosis.With thanks to Dr Claudia Marck and Dr Sarah White.Read episode transcript hereReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Neurologist, Prof.Jeannette Lechner-Scott answers the most common concerns and questions of those newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.With thanks to Prof.Jeannette Lechner-Scott.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Education and Wellbeing Program Coordinator Andrea Salmon talks about MS fatigue. Fatigue is often labelled as the most disabling symptom of MS. Andrea will discuss the types of fatigue and will offer management strategies. With thanks to Andrea.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Social Work Advisor Michael provides strategies for communicating more effectively and assertively. With thanks to Michael.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Social Work Advisor Catherine chats about the role of the carer of someone living with multiple sclerosis. Catherine identifies the varied roles of the carer and the key underlying principles that are universal to all carers. She also offers tips for self-care and carer support options.With thanks to Catherine. Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Nurse Advisor, Jane discusses the latest medication for treatment of multiple sclerosis.With thanks to MS Nurse Advisor, Jane.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Employment Support Services consultant, Natalie Holland discusses the strategies to working well with multiple sclerosis. With thanks to Natalie.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

A chat with counsellor, Helen Diamond. Helen shares her wisdom on building better relationships for you and your partner. She covers lots of helpful information, including understanding through "love language". Do you show love by giving gifts or telling people in words? Or are you a person who shows they love someone by acts of service such as filling the car up with petrol of cooking dinner? Understanding the ways we show and give love can really help build positive relationships.With thanks to Helen.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Psychologist Dr Sally Shaw discusses the role of resilience and living well with MS. Dr Sally uses the approach of positive psychology framework and will offer tips around being strategic while moving forward in life.With thanks to Dr Sally.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Nurse Advisor Bridie talks about multiple sclerosis pain and offers tips on how to best manage your MS pain symptoms.With thanks to Bridie.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Presented by Dr Margaret Redelman, OAM, MBBS (Uni NSW), M Psychotherapy (Uni NSW). Dr Redelman works as a Sex Therapist and a Relationship Therapist. She discusses sex and sexuality for people living with multiple sclerosis.With thanks to Dr Margaret Redelman.Read episodes transcript hereReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Sleep is incredibly important to quality of life and many people living with multiple sclerosis do not sleep well for a variety of reasons. MS Education and Wellbeing Program Coordinator, Andrea Salmon will explore sleep issues, its relationship to fatigue and best of all look at strategies to assist you get a better night's sleep.With thanks to Andrea.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Education and Wellbeing Programs Coordinator, Nicola Graham provides tips and strategies for managing our mental health and building mental resilience during this challenging time. With thanks to Nicola.Reach out for support:Contact MS Plus Connect, Monday to Friday between 8am to 5pm.1800 042 138 or [email protected]? Email us at [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Exercise Physiologist, Caitlin Ireland discusses exercise strategies for people with multiple sclerosis.With thanks to Caitlin.Read episodes transcript hereReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Nurse Advisor, Bridie Phillips, talks about MS related bowel issues, typical symptoms and lots of tips, strategies and resources to manage bowel issues and live well.With thanks to Bridie.Read transcriptReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

MS Nurse Advisor, Bridie Phillips, discusses bladder issues and what you can do to ensure you can get out and about and continue living your best life.With thanks to Bridie.Read episode transcript hereReach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.  

Eating well is important for everyone; it is particularly important for people living with multiple sclerosis. We interview Nicola Graham, Nutritionist about eating and living well in multiple sclerosis.With thanks to Nicola.Reach out for support:MS Plus Connect 1800 042 138 or email [email protected] in touch to share your comments and suggestions about this episode, or for future guests and episode topics by emailing [email protected]  Views expressed on the MS Podcast, including any discussions or reference to medications or treatments by podcast guests, do not necessarily represent the views of MS Plus and should not be seen as either an endorsement or rejection of a treatment.  MS Plus does not recommend any specific treatment for people living with MS. Decisions about any treatments, taking into consideration the potential benefits and side effects for each individual’s circumstances, should be made in careful consultation with the person’s neurologist or health care professional.