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When to use steroids?

Hi all-

For the past 3 weeks Ive been experiencing some numbness in my feet, legs, stomach, and hands. The sensations have changed and migrated quite a bit, but they haven't gone away. For the past week I've been having some slight weakness in my right leg that has led to a slightly awkward gate, but I'm still working and getting around without any assistance. The numbness hasn't affected my day to day life much, except typing on the computer has been an awkward challenge (though obviously not impossible).

Here's my question: When do you choose to treat flare ups with steroids? I was diagnosed with RRMS 8 years ago when I was 23 and I did 2 IV infusions of steroids in the beginning for some optic neuritis, but this is the first flare up I've had in 6 years. Obviously I want this to resolve (however it will) as quickly as possible, but I'm curious about others approach to this? What makes you choose to use steroids vs. not?

Thanks!
Chrissy

  1. I believe the best way to chose is to discuss with your doctor. You should tell all of this to your doctor and see what he/she thinks. Ask your doctors advice about when you should be receiving treatment for a relapse. You may even ask him/her to clarify what a relapse is for you. The truth is, you don't really decide when to use an IV infusion of steroids--your doctor does. You may agree or refuse the treatment, but you need to be well informed before you can do this.
    Good Luck, Lynda 😀

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