When to start treatment? - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

MarissaC8 · 11-13-2007, 06:50 PM

I just had my third baby 4 months ago. I know after each pregnancy you are likely to have a relapse. How long do I go with symptoms before I should do Steroids? I am nursing and would have to stop while on Steroids. Do you think the steroids help enough? I just can't decide if I am sick enough to do it. My legs and feet are hot and tingly, all the way to my naval, my hands are prickly too. I can still function completely, I am completely exhausted, but that won't help my exhaustion... Just looking for opinons.

Thanks.
Marissa

MSNik · 11-13-2007, 07:21 PM

Marissa, since steroids can stay in your system up to 3 months, I would seriously talk to my Neuro and OB about the very thought of going on steroids...its very logical that you might be having a relapse and this might be your only recourse.
Are you going on any MS therapy drugs? Were you on them prior to pregnancy? If you plan to return to any of the MS drugs, NOW would probably be a good time to get back on them, or start them
Congratulations on the birth of your child...
Nikki

MSJayhawk · 11-13-2007, 07:31 PM

I would consult your doctor. Breast fed babies have been shown to have higher IQ's and genetically healthier lives. I realize that you will have to make some sacrifices to continue breast feeding. In the end, no one can judge you for your decision. You need to do what you believe is in your best interest. In the meanwhile, you have support here whatever you decide. I never did any meds or roids. I learned to heal naturally. That was, of course, my personal decision.

Snoopy61 · 11-14-2007, 05:15 AM

Steroids have some serious side affects, long and short term. The majority of neuros will not do steroids for sensory symptoms which is what your describing......steroids may or may not help with sensory symptoms, if they do help it's usually only temporary.

MarissaC8 · 11-14-2007, 06:44 AM

MSJayhawk - I know I do not want to quit Breastfeeding, yet I don't want to get more sick. Also, I do not want to just do steroids for sensory annoyances. You sd you did natural treatments? I don't even know of natural treatments. Are they safe for breastfeeding mommys? Maybe I can look into that.

MSNik - I was on Avonex prior to finding out I was expecting and have been off all meds since. I have talked to my Neuro and my Peds. for the baby, and they said if I decide to do treatment that I need to "pump and dump" only while on the treatment. I will look into how long the steroids actually stay in my system.

Thank you all for you opinions. My husband and I prayed about it and discussed it last night. We decided with the guidence of God to wait it out. Steroids are never immediate or permanent healing for me. I am not yet ready to quit breastfeeding my son. I still have full strength through my whole body. I think I just got used to feeling no symptoms during my pregnancy, and now I am back to feeling some reminders that I have MS symptoms. I almost forgot I even had it. As the baby grows and gets older, he will sleep longer at night and I will get more sleep, in turn making me feel a bit better.

Thank you again.
Marissa