Be Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Ready

Are You Relapse-Ready? Planning for the Unexpected with MS

Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) means navigating uncertainty. MS relapses—or flare-ups—can happen without warning, disrupting your plans, your routine, and your sense of stability. No matter what you have scheduled or how well you’ve been feeling, a relapse can throw life off course. That’s why it’s important to be “relapse-ready.”  Here are some key facts about MS to help you understand what’s happening in your body and why preparedness matters:

Multiple Sclerosis Facts:

• Multiple Sclerosis is an auto-immune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS).
• The CNS is made up of the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves.
• In Multiple Sclerosis, the body's immune system does not recognize the central nervous system as belonging to the body.  Instead, views the CNS as not belonging  - much like it views bacteria and viruses.
• To protect itself from something that "doesn't belong", the immune system causes inflammation.
• Inflammation damages myelin -- the fatty substance that surrounds and insulates the nerve fibers -- as well as the nerve fibers themselves.
• When myelin or nerve fibers are damaged or destroyed in Multiple Sclerosis, messages within the CNS are altered or stopped completely.
• Damage to areas of the CNS may produce a variety of neurological symptoms that will vary among people with MS in type and severity
• The damaged areas develop scar tissue which gives the disease its name - multiple areas of scarring or multiple sclerosis.
• The cause of MS is not known, but it is believed to involve genetic susceptibility, abnormalities in the immune system and environmental factors that combine to trigger the disease.

Types of Multiple Sclerosis

People with Multiple Sclerosis typically experience one of three disease courses:  relapsing-remitting, secondary-progressive, or primary-progressive.

• It is characterized by clearly defined attacks of new or increasing neurologic symptoms.  These attacks - also called relapses or exacerbations - are followed by periods of partial or complete recovery (remissions).

• During remissions, all symptoms may disappear, or some symptoms may continue and become permanent. However, there is no apparent progression of the disease during the periods of remission.
• Relapsing remitting MS can be further characterized as either active (with relapses and/or evidence of new MRI activity) or not active, as well as worsening (a confirmed increase in disability over a specified period of time following a relapse) or not worsening.

Secondary progressive MS (SPMS):  This  follows an initial relapsing-remitting course.

• Most people who are diagnosed with relapsing remitting MS will eventually transition to a secondary progressive course in which there is a progressive worsening of neurologic function (accumulation of disability) over time.
• Secondary progressive MS can be further characterized at different points in time as either active (with relapses and/or evidence of new MRI activity) or not active,as well as with progression (evidence of disease worsening on an objective measure of change over time, with or without relapses) or without progression.

Primary progressive MS (PPMS):  Primary progressive MS is characterized by worsening neurologic function (accumulation of disability) from the onset of symptoms, without early relapses or remissions.

• Primary progressive MS can be further characterized at different points in time as  either active (with an occasional relapse and/or evidence of new MRI activity) or not active.
• Individuals who were previously diagnosed with progressive-relapsing MS would now be considered primary progressive.
• Approximately 15 percent of people with MS are diagnosed with PPMS.

Common Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis symptoms can be highly variable and often unpredictable. No two people experience MS in exactly the same way, and even for one individual, symptoms may shift, fluctuate, or evolve over time. While one person may notice only a few mild issues, another may face a wider range of challenges.  Top multiple sclerosis symptoms include fatigue, difficulty walking, and numbness & tingling but there are many more.

The good news is that many MS symptoms can be managed successfully through medication, rehabilitation, and personalized strategies. Working with an interdisciplinary team—neurologists, rehabilitation therapists, mental health professionals, and other specialists—helps ensure comprehensive, effective symptom management and supports a better quality of life.

Be Multiple Sclerosis Relapse Ready

Although no one wants to dwell on worst-case scenarios, being prepared can make a big difference in how quickly and effectively you bounce back. Here are three practical steps to help you take control, stay informed, and advocate for yourself when a relapse occurs.

Step 1: Learn About MS Relapses and Treatment Options

Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to managing MS. Take time to understand what constitutes a relapse and what treatments are available. MS relapses typically involve new or worsening neurological symptoms that last for more than 24 hours and are not caused by an infection or other illness.

Relapse treatments may include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and therapies like physical, occupational, or speech therapy to help you recover lost function. Reading trusted MS resources—like those available on this site, from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or through your healthcare provider—can prepare you to take quick, informed action when a relapse strikes. The more informed you are, the better you'll be able to communicate with your healthcare team and participate in decisions about your care.

Step 2: Track Symptoms and Be Alert to Changes

Recognizing the early signs of a relapse can make a big difference. Keeping a symptom journal is a simple but powerful tool. Track what you're experiencing on a daily basis—fatigue, numbness, balance issues, vision changes, or anything that feels different. Note how your medications affect your symptoms, and any triggers you may have noticed. This log not only helps you spot the onset of a relapse, but it also provides your care team with valuable information for determining treatment plans. Apps, printable trackers, or even a simple notebook can help you maintain a clear record of your MS experience over time.

Step 3: Speak Up and Reach Out

If you suspect you’re having a relapse, don’t wait—contact your healthcare team right away. Timely communication can lead to faster treatment and a better recovery. Stay in touch with your providers during and after treatment to report progress or any lingering symptoms.

It’s also essential to speak up in your personal life. Let friends, family, and coworkers know that you may need support during a relapse. Whether it’s help with daily tasks or simply having someone to talk to, building a network of support makes the journey more manageable.

And don’t go it alone—connect with others who understand. The Rocket City MS Support Group meets every third Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM and welcomes anyone affected by MS. Sharing experiences, resources, and encouragement with others who truly understand can be a source of strength and hope.