I’ve tried a number of different medications to manage my RRMS. There are many treatments available. Some help to slow down the progression of your condition, and some help to relieve your related symptoms.

“Be as specific about your RRMS symptoms as possible. This will help your doctor figure out if your current treatment is working.”

Since there are always new treatments for RRMS, it helps to know what’s out there. Do some research. One good place to start is the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. They can also connect you to support groups, where you can speak with other patients with RRMS and learn which drugs have helped them manage the condition.

You’ll want to let your doctor know whether your RRMS symptoms are getting better or worse. They will also want to know how they impact your life. Write down your symptoms and be as specific as possible. Also note if there were any triggers linked to them, like stress.

I find that visits to my RRMS specialist wipe me out. It helps to plan as much as you can in advance. I do as much as possible the night before. It also helps to create a medication list your doctor can review, to make sure nothing interferes with your treatment plan.

Make sure to tell your doctor, and any members of his team, that you have a few things you want to address about your treatment during the appointment. It helps to have a list of ranked questions so that you can cover the most important ones first. Be prepared for your doctor to ask you a few things, too.

Every person with RRMS is unique. There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for this condition. Your doctor should give you several options and let you know how each one works, the efficacy, and potential side effects. 

Even small changes matter. If you’re more tired than usual, feel off balance, or notice a new kind of pain, bring it up. Sometimes it’s nothing, but it helps make sure your treatment is working as well as it should.

Here are some tips on when to speak up.

Before you leave your doctor’s office, book your follow-up appointment. You’ll need it to monitor your RRMS. Once you’re home, track your symptoms and watch for any side effects. You can use a journal, or an app on your smartphone. (The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America offers a free one called My MS Manager.) Make sure you stick to your treatment plan. If you have trouble taking a pill or giving yourself a shot, call your doctor and ask for help. It’s also important to stay on top of bloodwork. Some drugs require frequent monitoring.