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by: Megan R. Weigel, DNP, ARNP-c, MSCN
President International Organization of MS Nurses
Nurse Practitioner, Baptist Neurology, Jacksonville, FL
June 29, 2016
Relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) is the most common type of MS, occurring in about 85% of individuals diagnosed with the disease. In the early stages of the disease, most people living with MS will return to baseline, with stability between relapses. As the disease progresses with time, however, disability may accrue. The approximate cost of one relapse for a person on a disease modifying therapy (DMT), including costs to a patient for medical care, lost wages, intangible items, and costs to the insurance company, is estimated to be between $10,000 and $24,000 depending on the severity of the relapse. More frequent relapses are associated with higher costs and increased caregiver burden. Relapses are unpredictable and cause significant anxiety, even if your disease is in remission. If you are living with MS, how do you know if you are having a relapse or a bad day? How are relapses treated? Even though they seem important from a financial and quality of life standpoint, do they matter in the long run?
Definition of Relapse (also known as flare, exacerbation)
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