Flare?

So, I had a 6 month follow up with neurologist yesterday (it is within the MS clinic). I've been feeling a little cruddy for several weeks, so it was good that I had the appointment already set up. They feel as though I'm in flare, as the drop foot is back, electrical feeling in arm has gotten much worse, I have a lot of numbness on my right side and a few other things. The big one being several episodes of extreme dizziness.

They are ordering an MRI on C-spine and brain with contrast and depending on what the MRI says, they may do the following:

- If new lesions, stop Rebif and probable course of steroids.
- If no new lesions, probably a course of steroids.

I'm surprised that they would be so quick to change the Rebif. I've only been on it for a year and this is really my first flare since starting it. Has anyone else had this happen on changing meds? From what I understand Rebif is a pretty aggressive DMD.

Hi Gretchen,

I had my MRI yesterday and the doctor wants to wait for those results before recommending a course of action, including steriods. So I'm in a waiting period at the moment.

My Rebif nurse came over the day after my neuro appointment and I discussed the possibility of changing meds again with her. We both concluded that it seems too soon to switch yet again. Before this "flare" or whatever it is, I felt great. The best I have felt in a long time.

Once the MRI results are in, I'll talk with the doctor and let her know that I don't want to change just yet.

The MRI results are in, NO NEW LESIONS! woo hoo! I consider that to be a win.

I've filled out the FMLA paperwork, just in case and I see the doctor again on Sept 2nd. However, I do expect them to call me if steroids are the option of choice.

This is the first time since dx, that I've submitted the paperwork and can't help but thing that work stress is contributing to my symptoms. I was on vacation in mid July and I never felt better... coincidence, I think not. :)

I agree with Gretchen--stress is a major trigger. I avoid stress at all costs as I immediately notice a worsening of my symptoms as soon as I feel it. Work stress and emotional stress are the worst, but even physical stress (over exertion) can make me relapse.

I was taken off Copaxone just 4 months after starting it because I had a major flare. Switched to Tysabri and been flare free for about four years. If you are comfortable with Rebif, I wouldn't switch. I like Tysabri because it's only once every 28 days--and I don't do the injection, someone else does (it's actually an infusion--takes about an hour).

I hate steroid treatments and refuse to ever do it ever again. It does nothing for me but make me feel worse.

Good luck and hope you start feeling better soon!