Contents
Preventing MS Complications: A Guide to Staying Ahead
Published: Sep 11, 2024
Managing MS isn't just about treating symptoms—it's about preventing complications. Here's how you can stay proactive.
The Role of Pregnancy Planning
For women with MS planning a family, it's crucial to weigh the risks of continuing treatments against potential relapses. Discontinuing DMTs during pregnancy can lead to increased disease activity, but continuing them might affect the baby. Careful planning and consultation with healthcare providers are essential.
Preventing Rebound Activity
Stopping MS medications can sometimes cause a sudden worsening of symptoms, known as rebound activity. To prevent this, doctors often recommend transitioning to a new treatment right away. This strategy helps maintain disease control and avoid serious relapses.
Monitoring for PML
One rare risk of some MS treatments is PML, a serious brain infection. Regular monitoring for JCV antibodies can help identify patients at risk. Adjusting treatment plans based on these results can prevent PML from developing.
Frequently Asked Questions
By carefully planning and consulting healthcare providers.
It's a sudden worsening of symptoms after stopping a medication.
Through regular testing for JCV antibodies.
Wrapping Up
Proactive prevention can significantly impact MS management.
References
- Rae-Grant A, Day GS, Marrie RA, et al. Practice guideline recommendations summary: Disease-modifying therapies for adults with multiple sclerosis: Report of the Guideline Development, Dissemination, and Implementation Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology 2018; 90:777.
- Gadani SP, Reyes-Mantilla M, Jank L, et al. Discordant humoral and T cell immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in people with multiple sclerosis on anti-CD20 therapy. EBioMedicine 2021; 73:103636.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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