spinal anesthesia effect MS? - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

needhealing777 · 04-05-2006, 08:12 AM

Does spinal anesthesia cause exacerabations? When I had 2 of my kids I had spinal and epidural and even though wasn't diagnosed at the time, did have exacerbations after having them and now may be having surgery that requires spinal and am scared it could send me into one. I have heard this before, but not sure if it was a proven fact or just something "they" were thinking.

orngcrayon · 04-05-2006, 11:13 AM

Your relapses after giving birth probably didnt have anything to do with the spinal. Women have a much higher risk of having a relapse in the 6 months after giving birth (I think it's like a 70% increased risk).

But you should definately talk to your neurologist.

Webegi · 04-05-2006, 07:25 PM

My understanding is that for many autoimmune disease, ms being one of them, a period of great physical stress on your body (such as surgery, labor/delivery, etc) can cause symptoms to show themselves. It's not the anesthesia, in particular - just the whole ordeal of surgery for your body.

I would try to be as well rested as possible going in to it and take care of myself afterwards, but I don't know if that really has an effect.

Have you discussed your concerns with your surgeon or neurologist? Good luck with everything.