Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS), the most common form of multiple sclerosis (MS), accounting for around 85% of all MS cases at onset, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), specifically the brain and spinal cord of the people. One of the major causes of traumatic RRMS is the immune system, which mistakenly targets with damaging impact the protective myelin sheath covering nerve fibers and affects individuals with inflammation and damage, disrupting nerve signals and causing many neurological symptoms called "relapses" followed by periods of partial or complete recovery known as "remissions."
Following are the common symptoms of RRMS that may vary in the patients to a large extent depending on the affected part of CNS:-
Symptoms may worsen during relapses and improve during remission, while residual symptoms can persist between relapses even later on.
Causes:-
The exact cause of RRMS is unknown, but doctors believe different factors, including genetic symptoms, environmental impact, and immunological effects, may trigger the RRMS symptoms. According to health experts, people susceptible to a genetic predisposition also may be affected with MS if they are exposed to certain environmental triggers like infections (Epstein-Barr virus), low vitamin D levels, and smoking.
Diagnosing RRMS requires a comprehensive evaluation by a neurologist, which typically includes:-
Whatever diagnosis is opted for by the doctors, they do contemplate medical symptoms, images, and laboratory tests of the patients, adhering to McDonald's norms applicable to MS.
Although there is no fixed cure or medically recommended treatment for RRMS, the following are the treatment options the health experts focus their action on by controlling the symptoms, reducing relapse frequency, and slowing the pace of disease progression:-
While RRMS cannot be prevented, reducing risk factors such as avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate vitamin D, and regular exercise may help reduce the risk of relapses and slow disease progression so early medical intervention with DMTs is needed to prevent relapses and minimize CNS damage.
The course of RRMS varies among individuals, but many people with the condition experience long periods of remission with mild symptoms between relapses, following which some patients may develop more persistent symptoms or transition to a secondary progressive form of MS (SPMS) suffering gradual disability that may worsen without distinct relapses.
Living with RRMS requires a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and mental health professionals. Staying physically active, managing stress, and adhering to prescribed treatments are key aspects of living well with the disease. Support groups and counseling can also provide emotional support for individuals and their families. With ongoing advancements in treatment, many individuals with RRMS can lead fulfilling lives despite the challenges posed by the disease.
Tender Palm Super-Specialty Hospital, renowned for its excellence in neurology and neuro-immunology, offers cutting-edge care for patients diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS). With a team of highly experienced neurologists specializing in multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune neurological disorders, Tender Palm stands out as a premier center for MS treatment in Gomtinagar, Lucknow (UP), India.
Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com