How long does an episode last?

I have a question for everyone,

My symptoms started a few months ago.
They hit big and then slowed down a little.
My walking has gotten much worse and I got a rolling walker the other day to help me
Get around easier.

My question is, how long is this going to last.  I thought with RRMS. The symptoms go away after the initial symptoms.  What does the doc base the medication decision on for newly diagnosed people.  He is having me get n mri of the spine and then see him july 11th.  I am afraid I am not getting better but worse.

Any info would be appreciated.

Also, my husband doesn't want me driving far because of my fatigue and cognitive problems.  I was wondering if anyone else is going through the same thing.

Thanks
Kerri

[figuerpa]

Kerri,

From what I know symptoms can last 24 hours to up to a year. With RRMS when you have a flair you develop new symptoms or old symptoms get worse. They can gradually ease up in time but what ever doesn't go away with in that year span then it is probably permanant nerve damage and it may not go away.

I hope this is not the case with you, I don't like anyone to have permanant damage but this is MS and it can happen and does happen more than we like.

A neuro once they dx you should offer DMD's right away, on a normal basis. My nuero has chosen to wait until there are more lesions to start the DMD's but I want to try to slow the lesions. I am going to talk to him again when I go at the end of this month.


Fatigue is a big issue, there are medications out there to help with the fatigue. I have found that I don't drive too often any more due to cognitive issues. I only drive when it is necessary, but that is a personal decision that I made.

Good luck to you


Paula

[kerrtelli]

Thanks.  That helped a lot.

[jujuminx]

All I can add is that w my last episode my major sx lasted about 4 months then tapered off. Took a good 6 months before I got back to "normal".

Sounds like you are really going through a rough time. Does your dr have you on any medication yet? Steroids? Anything?

Julie

[supermum_ms]

My DH didn't want me to drive because of fatigue and cognitive issues too, I cant drive then and I dont really want to drive when its bad anyway but not driving when I feel good can be frustrating. I fall over a lot regardless of my fatigue levels now so he worries when he's not there, I get it, I really do but sometimes I just need to be foot loose and fancy free, no husband and no kids, just little old wonky me. lol

It would be easier if things were predictable but there are far too many unknowns so approximation is the best you've got to go by. Prior to a couple of years ago my balance was above average, when i have an episode now it goes and it can take weeks or months to get most of it back, i just can't predict the time frame.

I had actually been thinking my balance was pretty good lately, then i walked on lumpy uneven gravel and I couldn't walk let alone keep my balance. I've realised i'm just kidding my self because the issue is still there, just not as obvious sometimes but still there.

Funny but being home makes the truth less of an issue so maybe my husband has a point. lol

Cheers........JJ  

[kelly97]

Hi Kerri,
I'm sorry things aren't going more smoothly for you.
It's good that your doctor ordered a spinal MRI for you.  Unfortunately, I think if you have spinal lesions (like I do), it may be more difficult to get rid of your symptoms completely - particularly issues with walking.  

Your doctor should give you one of the disease modifying drugs (DMDs) if you do have RRMS. And they should have you something for your symptoms, too. ie - Baclofen for spasticity & stiffness, Vesicare or something like it for urinary issues, etc. I would think your doctor would want to have you start taking the DMDs right away.

I hope this helps you.
Kelly

[kerrtelli]

Again, thanks everyone.  I will see the doc on july 11th and expecting him to put me something.  I can only wait and see.  At least something is happening.  He said a combination of therapy and medication should get me better.

We shall see.

Thanks for all od the advice.
I appreciate it.
Kerri