Management of patients who have relapses in multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition, which disrupts the typical functions and daily activities of those affected. Approximately 80% of those diagnosed will follow a relapsing/remitting disease course at diagnosis. Patients with relapsing/remitting MS can expect to have episodes of relapse or an exacerbation of the disease and its variety of symptoms. Management of such episodes has always been open to the preferences of the healthcare professionals involved. The aim of this article is to review the evidence that exists to support current practice in the management of patients during a relapse and to evaluate how this evidence can be incorporated into patient care. The article begins by giving an overview of MS, and continues by determining what a relapse is and discussing the speculated triggers of relapse. Methods of treating relapse are then explored. It concludes by highlighting the strongest evidence-based method for treating relapses, and by emphasizing the need for further research into the pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical management of MS relapses.
Williams
Gaynor
G
Neuro-inflammatory Unit, Ground Floor, University Hospital of Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, Wales, UK.
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015984:Causality; D006801:Humans; D020529:Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones