Is this my first relapse?

Symptoms and treatments
1

Hi everyone,

I was officially diagnosed with RRMS in March 2022 after an episode of optic neuritis and two dizzy episodes the previous year, confirmed by multiple MRI’s and lumbar puncture.
My MS was linked to a particular medication I was on and once I came off that medication I went pretty much straight into remission (also confirmed by MRI) and have been symptom free for about a year and a half now.

I’ve been dizzy/lightheaded all day every day for 2 weeks now. I’m not sure I would call it vertigo? From what I’ve read those symptoms are far more extreme. I’m able to walk in a straight line but if I close my eyes and try to stay standing I end up falling over. It’s not really impacting my day to day but it’s not pleasant.

I’m wondering if this could be a relapse? I’ve not really had one before so I don’t know what to expect. My understanding of a relapse is it’s a new symptom or worsening of an existing one.
I had my annual MRI check up late September so I’m waiting on those results. But this dizziness did start a week or so after the MRI. I don’t know if this is worth bothering my MS nurse with before those results come back? I have been under a lot of stress and anxiety the last few weeks so had initially put it down to that but I would’ve thought it would have gone away by now.

I’m wondering if anyone with a bit more experience of the condition has any thoughts?

Many thanks

2

Hi Coffee. I’m never really sure what counts as a relapse as opposed to a ‘flare up’ of old symptoms. My guess is that what you are experiencing is a slight and with luck temporary worsening of your old symptoms brought on as a result of stress.

My ‘guess’ is going on my experiences. Hot weather makes my symptoms a lot worse and it can take a few days to return to ‘normal’. Covid in April made my symptoms worse for 4-5 months !

My understanding is that stress is indeed bad for MS - and long term stress is definitely best avoided. Apologies if I’m suggesting the blindingly obvious but have you tried meditation, mindfulness, relaxation techniques.

3

Hello,
I thought that too before, my MS was brought on by taking a certain medication: I blamed Roaccutane (acne treatment).
I later learned multiple sclerosis can stem as far back as early childhood; but yes, certain medications may trigger a relapse.
I have balance problems too: whether because of MS or a brain haemorrhage from 4 years ago, I do have a tendency to fall over now and again.
Your MS Nurse can refer you for physiotherapy, which may assist you with balance difficulties.
Best regards,
JP

4

Thanks for your reply.

I actually went to the GP in the end and the problem is with my ears. Huge relief.

5

Very pleased for you :grinning: