Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care for a health problem.
What is a multiple sclerosis relapse? —
Multiple sclerosis, or "MS," is an autoimmune disease. Normally, the immune system works as the body's infection-fighting system. It protects you by attacking and killing germs and other cells that could make you sick. When a person has an autoimmune disease, their immune system starts to attack their body's healthy cells by mistake. In MS, the immune system attacks and damages nerve cells and their connections in the brain and spinal cord.
A "relapse" is when MS symptoms flare up or get worse. This is also sometimes called an MS "attack" or "exacerbation." Symptoms can include:
●Numbness, tingling, and feeling "pins and needles"
●Muscle weakness or spasms
●Vision problems, eye pain, and odd eye movements
●Feeling dizzy or off balance
●Trouble walking or speaking
●Problems controlling your bowels or bladder
●Sensitivity to heat
The most common type of MS is called "relapsing-remitting." With this type, symptoms come and go. Between relapses, symptoms get better, although they don't always go away completely. Relapses can be different for different people.
If you have MS, take care of yourself by seeing your doctor regularly and taking your medicines. It's also important to be aware of new or worsening symptoms so you can get help.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure that you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Take all of your medicines as instructed.
•MS attacks are usually treated with steroid medicines over several days. These can be given by IV or as pills.
•Keep taking your regular medicines as usual. These can help manage symptoms and lower the risk of relapse.
●Get regular physical activity when you can.
●Work with a physical therapist, if your doctor recommended this. Use mobility aids recommended by your doctor or therapist if you have trouble walking. Examples include braces, canes, and walkers.
●Go to the bathroom on a schedule if you have trouble controlling your bladder or bowels.
●Stay cool if heat bothers you. It might help to take cool showers or hold cold packs on your skin.
●Follow your doctor's instructions about vaccines. This is important for staying healthy.
●Make sure that you have support. Getting help from family members, friends, coworkers, and caregivers can make it easier to do your daily activities. Ask for extra support at work or school if you need it.
What follow-up care do I need? —
Your doctor will tell you when to come back for a follow-up appointment. It's very important to go to all of your medical appointments and tests.
It's also important to see your doctor regularly, even when you are not having a relapse. They will ask about how you are feeling and make changes to your treatment if needed. Some people also work with other professionals, like a speech therapist.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call your doctor or nurse for advice if:
●Your symptoms come back or get worse after a relapse.
●You have new symptoms.
●Your medicines are causing side effects that bother you.
●You are struggling with depression or anxiety.
Patient education: Multiple sclerosis in adults (The Basics)
