The relapsing-remitting form of multiple sclerosis, which is the most prevalent form of the illness, is characterized by clearly defined bouts of new or increased neurologic symptoms. These occurrences, which may sometimes be referred to as relapses or exacerbations, are followed by times when the patient is either completely or partially recovered (remissions).
It is possible that during remissions, all the symptoms may go away. However, certain symptoms could stick around and become permanent. During the times when the patient is in remission, however, there does not seem to be any advancement of the illness.
Understanding RRMS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an illness that affects the central nervous system (CNS) and is progressive and chronic.
- One of the subtypes of multiple sclerosis is called relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
- Myelin, the protective coating that surrounds nerve fibers, is attacked by the immune system in the case of multiple sclerosis.
- This inflames the nerves in the brain and spinal cord and makes it more difficult for the brain to receive information from the rest of the body.
After an attack, you will go through a period of healing called remission, during which you will have a few to no symptoms. It may last for a few weeks, months, or even longer. These pauses in treatment do not result in a worsening of the condition.
RRMS often progresses into a separate kind of multiple sclerosis called secondary progressive multiple sclerosis between the ages of 10 and 20 years. Although you would not have relapses as often, the condition will mostly continue to worsen over time.
What is the cause of RRMS?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) has a complex multifactorial etiology that is still being studied.
It is not yet understood what precisely causes relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) or any of the other kinds of MS. Smoking, lack of vitamin D, and some viral infections (such as Epstein-Barr) are among the environmental and genetic variables that have a role in the development of RRMS.
11 symptoms of RRMS
It is quite unlikely that two people with multiple sclerosis (MS) will have the same symptoms. Some could come and go or make an appearance only once before disappearing forever. The symptoms you experience are determined by the region of the brain or spinal cord that has been injured because of the illness.
Some common symptoms of MS may include:
- Eye strain, as well as visual issues, such as double vision or the presence of nystagmus (eye tremor); these symptoms might be the very first indication of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)
- Feelings of numbness and tingling
- When you flex your neck, you feel a dull ache that travels down your spine, almost like an electric charge
- Coordination or balance issues
- Recurrent muscular spasms or stiffness
- Sexual difficulties, such as difficulty arousing oneself or reaching a climax
- Cognitive changes, such as difficulty processing information, learning, and organizing
- Intolerance to high temperatures
- Bowel or bladder troubles
- Dizziness
- Depression
How to reduce the probability of RRMS
Most individuals who have relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) control their illness with:
- Medication
- Rehabilitation, which could be physical and occupational therapy and others
- Practicing stress management
To prevent long-term nerve damage, most people with RRMS should begin therapy as soon as possible after their diagnosis.
SLIDESHOW
What Is Multiple Sclerosis? MS Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis See SlideshowNational Multiple Sclerosis Society. Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). https://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS/Types-of-MS/Relapsing-remitting-MS
Goldenberg MM. Multiple sclerosis review. P T. 2012;37(3):175-184. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3351877/
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