Multiple Sclerosis Flare-Up

Now that the heat is here, it's prime time for MS flare-ups or exacerbations. This is a tough season for people with multiple sclerosis, so it's time to soothe yourself.

I have to admit that I myself am going through a tough time right now. My MS is flaring up like never before, and I'm having new, more severe symptoms. The injectable drugs are only about 30% effective at stopping or reducing new exacerbations, so things slip through the cracks. What I wish for everyone is relief from your symptoms. This can be done with pain meds, such as Neurontin and Nortriptyline, or muscle relaxers such as Baclofen or Zanaflex. Other drugs can relieve bladder symptoms or dizziness. It's important to speak with your neurologist about symptom management.

Sometimes symptom management is not enough, when an attack is genuine and severe. In this case steroids, Solumedrol and/or Prednisone, can be given to stop the inflammation on the nerves.

Some ideas to get you through these attacks include keeping cool, meditation, support from loved ones, and just plain old distractions such as soothing music, books, magazines, and my personal favorite: gardening!

A Huntington's disease overview will be posted in a couple of days....

***For more articles and discussions about MS, please visit the MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Suite.

***For related information, check out the Neurological ARTICLE INDEX