Multiple sclerosis Hug

The MS hug is a symptom of multiple sclerosis where you feel as if you have a tight band around your chest or ribs or pressure on one side of your torso. Some people find that it is painful to breathe. The MS hug is a common MSsymptom that can be hard to explain, and can be mistaken for other conditions

The most common sensation is the feeling of pressure on the torso or around the chest or abdomen, but symptoms can also occur in the hands and feet. The person may feel as though they are wearing tight shoes or gloves when they are not. An MS hug can also affect the arms, legs, and even the head

Although uncomfortable, the MS Hug often passes without needing treatment. There are things you can do which may make a difference to the sensations. However, if the MS hug is long lasting or very painful, there are drugs which may help you

How to manage the MS Hug?

Tight clothing. Some people find that creating an understandable cause for the feeling of tightness tricks the brain into accepting the feeling more. You could try a close fitting top, scarf or bandage around the chest, a glove on the affected hand or socks or boots if it’s your feet or legs that are affected. Applying pressure with the flat of your hand can also work well