Smoking and Alcohol
Understanding how smoking and alcohol affect multiple sclerosis (MS) can help you make informed choices about your health. Both lifestyle factors can influence your risk of developing MS, as well as the progression and experience of the disease.
Smoking and MS
Increased Risk and Progression
- Smoking increases the risk of developing MS and can make the disease progress more quickly.
- People who smoke are more likely to move from relapsing-remitting MS to secondary progressive MS, and this transition may happen up to eight years earlier than in non-smokers.
Worsening Symptoms
- Smoking can make MS symptoms such as fatigue, pain, memory problems, muscle weakness, balance issues, and vision loss more severe.
- Smokers may also experience more frequent relapses and greater disability over time.
Brain Changes
- Studies show that people with MS who smoke have higher rates of brain atrophy (shrinkage) and more active brain lesions on MRI scans.
Secondhand Smoke
- Exposure to secondhand smoke also increases the risk of MS and may worsen symptoms in people who already have the disease.
Benefits of Quitting
- Quitting smoking at any stage can help slow disease progression, reduce symptom severity, and improve overall health.
- Support and medications are available to help you quit—talk to your GP or MS nurse for advice and resources.
Alcohol and MS
Moderate Consumption
- Moderate alcohol consumption does not appear to increase the risk of MS relapses or disease activity for most people.
- Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol intake may even be associated with lower disability and improved quality of life in people with MS.
Heavy or Risky Drinking
- Heavy drinking or alcohol abuse can have negative effects on overall health and may increase the risk of developing MS, especially in people who also smoke.
- Excessive alcohol use can worsen symptoms such as fatigue, balance problems, and cognitive changes.
General Recommendations
- If you choose to drink, do so in moderation no more than one standard drink per day for women and two for men.
- Always consider your own health, medications, and how alcohol affects you personally.
- If you have concerns about alcohol use, talk to your GP or MS nurse for guidance.
What You Should Know
- Alcohol can worsen MS symptoms, especially fatigue, coordination, and mood.
- It may interact with MS medications, including those for pain, spasticity, or depression.
- Alcohol increases the risk of falls and injuries, particularly if mobility or balance is affected.
- Women: Up to 2 standard drinks per day, and no more than 10 per week.
- Men: Up to 3 standard drinks per day, and no more than 15 per week.
- Have at least 2 alcohol-free days per week.
- Avoid more than 4 (women) or 5 (men) drinks on any single occasion.
- If you’re feeling unwell, fatigued, or taking medications that interact with alcohol.
- During relapses or periods of increased MS symptoms.
- If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does smoking affect MS?
Yes, smoking increases the risk of developing MS, speeds up disease progression, and can make symptoms worse. It is best to quit smoking if you have MS.
Can secondhand smoke affect MS?
Yes, exposure to secondhand smoke can increase the risk of MS and may worsen symptoms in people who already have the disease.
Is it safe to drink alcohol if I have MS?
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe for most people with MS and may even be associated with lower disability. Heavy drinking or alcohol abuse should be avoided.
How much alcohol is considered moderate?
Moderate drinking means no more than one standard drink per day for women and two for men.
Where can I get help to quit smoking or reduce my alcohol intake?
Your GP or MS nurse can provide advice, support, and information about available resources. MSNZ and your local MS Regional Society can also offer support and guidance.