Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an MS exacerbation/flare up?
   An MS exacerbation or flare up is defined as new or returning neurological symptoms that last for more than 24 hours and are not caused by other causes such as infection. MS exacerbations are caused by new areas of demyelination within the central nervous system.


2. What do I do if I am having an MS exacerbation?
   If you are having an exacerbation we suggest that you make an appointment to be seen at our clinic. It is important to be seen to help us identify if this is a true exacerbation or if there is another cause. Some, but not all exacerbations are treated with steroids. Steroids have a number of possible side effects, some of which are serious. The more often a person uses steroids their risk of developing other health problems such as osteoporosis, cataracts, etc. increases.


3. Why do my symptoms get worse when I am sick or when I get hot?
   Nerves do not like being hot! When they get hot, they don’t send information as well, so you may find that your symptoms worsen or old symptoms reappear. Your symptoms should go back to your baseline after you have cooled off.


4. What can I do to help keep cool during the summer months and during exercise?
   Drinking cold water before, during and after exercise as well as on warm days can help to cool you from the inside out. Spraying yourself with cool water or wearing a cooling vest can also be helpful. You may want to try taking a cool shower or bath for 30 minutes prior to doing activities in the heat. This can help to keep you cool for up to 4 hours. Try and avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day. Outdoor activities should be done in the early morning or early evening.


5. What do I do if I need a copy of my medical records?
   Send a letter to our office in writing stating where you want your medical records sent and please sign and date it. There is a charge to send the records directly to you, and there is no charge to send records to another health care provider’s office.


6. Can I get a flu shot?
   MS is not a contraindication to any vaccination.


7. I feel fine now, why should I start an injectable medication now?
   Studies have shown the earlier a patient starts an injectable medication the less disability they will have from MS in the long run.


8. What supplements and herbs can I take?
   Check out our website www.ms-cam.org or the book Alternative Medicine and Multiple Sclerosis by Dr. Allen C. Bowling, MD, PhD.


9. Where did Tom Stewart, PA-C go?
   Tom has not left us. He is now working on numerous projects for the Rocky Mountain MS Center. Feel free to stop by and say hello to him in suite 420 of our building or give him a call at 303-788-4030 x109.


10. Will Copaxone, Avonex, Rebif, or Betaseron make any of the symptoms better that I have now?
    All of the injectable medications are meant to prevent new lesions from forming, prevent exacerbations and prevent long term disability. They will NOT improve any symptoms that you have now.


11. I need a letter written on my behalf because of MS, what should I do?
    Please write the letter that you would like to be sent, including exactly what details you need included in the letter. We will then do our best to write a letter which reflects your needs.


12. What do I do if I need to travel on an airplane with my injectable medication?
    All you need to do is carry the packaging including the label from the pharmacy that includes your name and the prescriber’s name. If your airline requires something else, please notify our office. You may also like to have an MS ID card. You can download an application at www.mscenter.org.


13. What do I do if I can’t afford my medications?
    For the injectable medications always try calling your drug's support line. NORD also offers some assistance programs. Go to www.rarediseases.org. Another source is www.needymeds.com. This website offers discounted medication programs for patients who qualify.


14. What do I do if I need to cancel my appointment?
    Please call or use our web service to cancel your appointment at least 24 hours before your appointment. Patients who do not show up for their appointments will be charged a $75 fee.