Managing MS and Other Health Conditions Together - MSNZ
Written by Rachael Hofmann, Clinical LeadLiving with multiple sclerosis (MS) can sometimes feel like enough on its own. Add in things like high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, diabetes, or high. . .
Written by Rachael Hofmann, Clinical LeadLiving with multiple sclerosis (MS) can sometimes feel like enough on its own. Add in things like high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, diabetes, or high cholesterol, and it can become overwhelming. These additional health conditions, called comorbidities, are common in people living with MS, and they matter. The good news is there are practical, proactive steps you can take to look after your health and wellbeing as a whole. You don’t have to manage everything at once, and you don’t have to do it alone. What are comorbidities and why do they matter in MS?A comorbidity is any other health condition that exists alongside MS. Research shows that people with MS are more likely to experience conditions such as:Depression or anxietyHigh blood pressure or high cholesterolHeart disease or diabetesLung conditionsThese conditions don’t just exist “in the background. ” They can affect how MS shows up day to day, how symptoms progress, and how well treatments work. MS itself can make some other conditions harder to manage. This means MS shouldn’t be managed in isolation, it’s part of a bigger picture of overall health. The impact on daily lifeWhen MS and other health conditions overlap, people may notice:Increased fatigueMore difficulty with mobilityChanges in thinking or memoryReduced emotional wellbeingA greater impact on overall quality of lifeSome comorbidities, especially things like mental health and cardiovascular conditions, are linked with higher levels of disability over time. This makes early identification and ongoing management especially important. For many people, the impact isn’t just medical, it’s practical and emotional too. Managing multiple appointments, medications, and expectations can be challenging. This is where having the right support and clear communication across your care team becomes particularly important. Being proactive – you’re an important part of the teamOne of the most important messages is this: you play an active role in your health care. Managing MS well isn’t just about specialist appointments or medications. It includes regular contact with primary care and building a strong relationship with your GP or nurse practitioner, who play a key role in monitoring your overall health. Things that make a real difference include:Keeping up with regular health checksYour primary care team can help monitor things like blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, mood, sleep, and medications. Talking openly about mental healthDepression and anxiety are common in MS and are not a personal failing. Talking about how you’re feeling and getting support early can have a positive impact on both mental wellbeing and MS outcomes. Reviewing medications regularlyIf you’re managing more than one condition, regular medication reviews can help avoid side effects, interactions, or unnecessary medications. Healthy habits and everyday wellbeingLooking after your general health is an important part of living well with MS, particularly if you have other health concerns. Alongside medical care, everyday habits can support your energy, resilience, and overall wellbeing. Rather than trying to change everything at once, many people find it helpful to focus on one or two small, achievable steps and build from there. Key areas to focus on:Staying physically active in ways that suit your body and energy levelsRegular movement can support strength, mobility, fatigue, and mood. The most important thing is finding activities that feel manageable and sustainable for you. Maintaining a healthy weight, with support if neededBalanced, sustainable eating patterns can support overall health, energy levels, and long-term outcomes. Keeping your mind and brain activeSimple activities such as reading, puzzles, learning new skills, or hobbies can help support brain health. Staying socially connected is also important and can support both cognitive function and emotional wellbeing. Not smoking, and limiting alcoholReducing or stopping smoking and staying within low-risk alcohol guidelines can support long-term health and MS outcomes. Following medical advice for other health conditionsManaging other conditions alongside MS, including keeping up with check-ups and treatments, is an important part of overall care. Shared care works bestMS care works best when different parts of the health system work together. This includes:YouYour GP or primary care teamYour neurologistNurses, allied health professionals, and MS Community AdvisorsPrimary care plays a vital role in coordinating care, especially when there are multiple conditions involved. Support is also available through MS Regional Societies and Community Advisors, who can help connect you with information, services, and local programmes, and support you to take practical next steps that fit your situation. Bringing it togetherManaging MS alongside other health conditions can feel challenging, but you’re not expected to do it all at once, or on your own. Many comorbidities are treatable, manageable, and responsive to proactive care. What matters most is a coordinated approach, where you are supported to understand your health, make informed choices, and access the right support when you need it. By looking after your overall health, staying engaged with your care team, and focusing on what you can influence, you’re making meaningful investments in your future wellbeing. Last Updated July 21, 2026