Multiple sclerosis relapse is caused due to inflammation in the central nervous system that damages myelin which wraps around the nerve fibers. Due to this damage, transmission of nerve impulses is disrupted and this causes the symptom of MS. Most relapses resolve without treatment. Only in severe cases of relapse which involve loss of vision, poor balance or severe weakness which interfere with the safety and overall ability of the patient, one might need treatment.

The neurologist will then recommend treatment with corticosteroids. High dose of intravenous corticosteroids to reduce inflammation would be given. This is a common treatment varying between a three to five-day courses of intravenous corticosteroids. This helps to end the relapse faster. Sometimes it may be followed with a small dose of oral prednisone. It is believed that corticosteroids do not have any long term benefit. Other medication would include a high dose of intravenous Solu-Medrol, high dose oral Deltasone and H.P.Acthar gel.

Managing symptoms
To manage the symptom of MS a wide variety of medication is used. Along with medication, diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle are prescribed along with the consultation of a nutritionist.

Research shows that a healthy diet, exercise, quitting smoking and preventive care contribute to overall health and have an impact on a person’s MS progression and lifespan. Physical wellness is very important to a person living with MS. MS management is an essential component of physical wellness. Managing MS would include:

• Modifying the course of the disease
• Treating relapses
• Managing symptoms

Rehabilitation to promote functional mobility, independence, safety, participation at work, home and community are vital in managing MS. A neurologist can help with forming a comprehensive health plan to manage MS and age-related healthcare issues. Integrating healthy behavior and lifestyle is an added challenge but is a big part of managing multiple sclerosis. Support of friends and family along with the healthcare team is absolutely necessary. It is with their support a patient can be guided and encouraged to eat well, stop smoking, engage in physical activities and do whatever is challenging to them. A professionally trained wellness coach offers ways and means to live life to the best and support you through your wellness journey.

Symptom management is an essential component of comprehensive multiple sclerosis care. Progression of the condition is reduced by management therapies. However, it is the ongoing management of symptoms that allows people to function with optimal comfort, safety, and also participate and improve and quality of life in their day to day activities Most of the neurological symptoms that normally occurs in multiple sclerosis can be managed effectively with interdisciplinary care.

While working with multiple sclerosis patients, it is required to be aware not only of the functional impact of the symptoms but also the visible and not so visible symptoms which affect them socially, emotionally, and vocationally.

The numerous symptoms that are associated with multiple sclerosis can be adversely affected by each other and also by therapeutic interventions. To manage the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, careful clinical monitoring and individualization of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapies are recommended. The goal of symptom management is improving or maintaining function and preserving the quality of life of the patient.