what do you for relief?

I am definetly having a relapse of the episode I had 2 years ago- which left me unable to walk without support and unable to even dress myself on some days. Right now, all of my symptoms are still mild- tremors, fatigue, shaky legs, difficulty picking up heavy objects (like my kid ) and walking downstairs, lack of balance, blurry vision- but I want to keep them mild!!!

What are you other limbo-ers (and dx'd too!) doing to relieve some of these symptoms? Are there exercises or PT or stretches or anything that helps? Are there any meds I can ask my doc about that do not require a dx?

Unfortunately, I just cannot slow down right now. Any suggestions?

Thanks!!!
elle

Hi Elle, nice to meet you! I'm in a similar situation to you - I was diagnosed with PPMS last October and then undiagnosed earlier this year, so I'm now a limboland native as well.

Firstly, (and you probably already have done this so forgive me if so! ) have you spoken to your neurologist or your family doctor about the fact that you're having a repeat episode, and had them examine you?

There are medications that can help to control some of your symptoms (eg fatigue if this is a debilitating symptom for you) and personally speaking, my neurologist is willing to prescribe symptomatic medications without a diagnosis (like Baclofen for spasticity).

I'm not sure just how unstable your walking is, but it may be wise to use some sort of walking aid, especially if your balance is not good and your legs shaky. You don't want to have a fall! I have a rolling walker for around the house and a wheelchair for longer distances because I can't walk very well at all. The rolling walker gives me much more confidence in getting around - and the walls of my house are now getting less handprints!

Also -I do a weekly physiotherapy class provided by the MS Society (I'm in Australia), and a daily stretching programme also provided by the MSS. I've provided a link below to a stretching manual provided by the US MS Society which may be helpful for you, to keep your muscles limber.

http://www.nationalmssociety.org/pdf...Stretching.pdf

For fatigue, I use regular 20 minute power naps throughout the day as needed. They work a treat for me! But - I know that can be difficult with a child - mine is school age so I can take my power naps when when she's at school.

Sorry I can't offer much more help - and I certainly know how frustrating it is to be in your position!

Hi Elle:

First - tell your neuro.

There are meds he/she can give you. My neuro started with meds for fatigue. Once that worked and I was awake and non-functional, she moved to an anti-spasmodic.

When I visited my physio she stated the first line of treatment for spasticity is meds, so I went on Baclofen. Sounds like you are a bit weak and unsteady, so an anti-spasmodic may not be the drug of choice. That's up to your neuro to decide.

As much as you may hate the thought, use a walking aid like Teddy said - a cane is a good place to start. Make sure it is measured properly and you are trained to us it, otherwise it will defeat the purpose and make things worse.

Lots of rest, easier said than done when you have a little one to care for. Your body is telling you something, and as mom's we don't listen.

If you are near an MS clinic they have info and nurses/OT's/physio's etc who work with MS patients and have great suggestions. One of the most helpful individuals I have ever encountered was a neuro OT. They can teach you wonderful ways to save energy.

Hope this relapse is short. Maybe it will give your neuro some answers.

All the best.