Yes, nicotine does affect MS in several concerning ways.
Nicotine has been shown to compromise the blood-brain barrier, which is particularly problematic for people with MS. It also affects immune system function, which may worsen the overactive autoimmune response that characterizes MS.
Smoking increases your risk of Show Full Answer
Yes, nicotine does affect MS in several concerning ways.
Nicotine has been shown to compromise the blood-brain barrier, which is particularly problematic for people with MS. It also affects immune system function, which may worsen the overactive autoimmune response that characterizes MS.
Smoking increases your risk of developing MS in the first place - current smokers are nearly twice as likely to develop MS compared to nonsmokers. The risk increases with longer duration and greater intensity of smoking.
For those already living with MS, smoking accelerates disease progression. People with relapsing-remitting MS who smoke are more likely to advance to secondary progressive MS more quickly than nonsmokers. Smoking is also linked to:
- Greater demyelination and more brain lesions
- Worsening symptoms and more frequent relapses
- Reduced effectiveness of MS treatments like interferon beta 1a and Tysabri
The good news is that quitting helps. Former smokers have the same risk of MS progression as people who've never smoked, and each smoke-free year decreases your risk of progressing to more severe disability levels.
While some people use nicotine replacement products like patches, gum, or e-cigarettes to quit, it's important to discuss these options with your doctor since nicotine itself may not be a healthier alternative for people with MS.
January 2
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