Determination vs the Unknowns of Relapsing MS By the LEMTRADA Team • January 17, 2019

Relapsing MS patients know a thing or two about dealing with unknowns. This may stem from the fact that the “unknowns” of relapsing MS can begin long before an official diagnosis—with unexplained symptoms that are sometimes mistaken for other conditions. While no one is happy to be told that they have relapsing MS, some patients feel a sense of relief at finally having an answer. With many things in life, knowing is better than not knowing. Studies show that uncertainty can cause stress and anxiety. So, when it comes to the unknowns of relapsing MS, what can you control and how? We have a feeling that determination is a big part of the answer. Determination means not settling and not giving up. It means taking an active role in your health. It means asking questions and reassessing (you know, because you’re not settling). What follows are some questions in a few areas that may help you advocate for yourself.

What kind of team do you have?

You know you will need healthcare professionals in different disciplines on your care team. But have you also thought about:

• What kind of relationship do you want and need?
• Do you have the same approach and philosophy of how to tackle relapsing MS? 
• Do you feel heard?
• Are you the captain or cocaptain of your team?
• Have your needs evolved as your experience with MS has changed? Has your team?

What’s important to you?

• What are your goals for treatment?
• And very importantly, does your healthcare team know your goals?

What are your options?

The number of treatment options has grown considerably over the years. Each medicine has its own characteristics and clinical trial results. You might want to know what this information can mean to you. That is a very good question to ask your healthcare provider for any treatment option you’re researching.

What happens when you ask questions?

Speaking up is an action. An action that can make you feel empowered, help you get the answers you need, or find the path you’ve been looking for. It can fuel your determination even more. And when it comes to focusing on the power of determination versus worrying about the unknown, we’d choose determination every time.

Tell us, what fuels your determination?