Understanding Relapse-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS): A Complete Guide

Introduction

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) is the most common type of multiple sclerosis; it is often diagnosed in young, adult people. If you or someone you care for lives with RRMS, being informed about the typical course of RRMS, treatment options and how to manage everyday life can really help. This guide explains it all in simple terms, no medical degree required. Let's begin to explore everything you need to know about living well with RRMS.💪🧠

What Is RRMS? 🤔

RRMS is a neurological disorder characterized by symptom flare-ups (relapses) followed by improved symptoms (remissions). When you have a relapse, your immune system attacks the protective covering on the nerves [1] in your brain and spinal cord, which causes the symptoms. When you are in remission, the inflammation reduces and you may feel better (some people may feel better completely, some people might feel better only partially).

Key facts:

📊 It is the most common type of MS, accounting for approximately 85% of all MS cases. It is typically characterized by clearly defined attacks of new or worsening symptoms (known as relapses) followed by a period of partial or complete recovery.
🎯 Generally diagnosed in 20 to 40-year-olds, this is often seen in one’s prime adult years where it can disrupt personal and professional domains of life. Learning to identify and act early are a couple of key aspects to treatment and better outcomes.
👩 This is a disorder that is mainly seen in females and is frequently caused by hormonal changes, and/or genetic factors, and/or lifestyle factors. You must take care to carefully monitor your symptoms and see a doctor for advice and treatment.

What Causes RRMS? 🌱

Scientists don't know definitively what causes RRMS, but here's what they do know:

🧬 Genetics play a role — having a family member with MS slightly increases your risk.
☀️ Environmental triggers, like low vitamin D, smoking, and certain viruses [2] (especially Epstein-Barr), may contribute [Source: NIH].
⚔️ Autoimmunity is the main driver. Your immune system attacks your nerves by mistake.

Common Symptoms to Watch For 🚨

Each person has a different experience with Recurrent Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis, and some common symptoms are:

Most common:

👀 Blurred or double vision
💤 Extreme fatigue
🤲 Numbness or tingling in arms or legs

Early signs:

🚶 Balance problems
💪 Weakness in limbs
🌪️ Dizziness

Lesser-known symptoms:

🧠 Memory and focus issues
🧊 Muscle stiffness or spasms
🔥 Heat sensitivity

What Does a Relapse Feel Like? ⚡

A relapse can last a few days to weeks, it can also bring on new symptoms or worsen your current ones. You might:

🚶Struggle with walking or balance
🛌 Feel extra tired
👓 Notice changes in vision or coordination

Not every flare-up is a true relapse — your doctor may run tests (like an MRI) to confirm.

What Happens During Remission? 🌈

Remission is when the inflammation is calmed down. Some people may feel normal while others may still have some of their original symptoms. The fluctuations in remission can be frustrating; but remissions give us the chance to recover and experience better days.

Can RRMS Progress Over Time? 📉

Yes, RRMS can progress to another disease form called Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS) where symptoms can gradually worsen, and relapse rates decrease. Not everyone will experience the change, and thus effective treatment early on can delay SPMS. Seeing a doctor regularly, and implementing lifestyle changes to stay active, eat well, and reduce stress in one’s life, can be powerful ways to possibly slow progression and maintain quality of life.

Progression factors include:

Age and how long you've had MS
Frequency and severity of relapses
Brain changes seen on MRI scans
Lifestyle factors like smoking or poor diet

How Is RRMS Diagnosed? 🧪

Diagnosis usually involves:

🧠 MRI scans to detect lesions [3] in your brain or spine
💉 Spinal fluid tests to look for inflammation
👩⚕️ Neurological exams to check your reflexes and coordination

Doctors follow the McDonald Criteria — a set of standards to help confirm MS based on test results and symptom history.

What Are the Treatment Options? 💊

There’s no cure (yet!), but RRMS can be managed with the right treatment plan:

Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs) [4]: Slow progression and reduce relapse frequency. Includes injections, oral meds, and infusions.
Steroids: Help manage acute relapses and reduce inflammation.
Symptom Management: Medications and therapies for fatigue, pain, mobility, and mood [5].
Clinical Trials: Access emerging treatments still being studied — check with your neurologist!

Tips for Managing Daily Life 🧘

Lifestyle tweaks that make a difference:

🥗 Eat anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, and fish. Want supplements for people with MS? Click here.
🛌 Prioritize sleep and stick to a calming bedtime routine.
✅ Try to relax as much as possible, weather with breathwork (click here ) or with a sauna or massage chair (click here). A cold plunge is also efficient (click here).
🧘 Try yoga or stretching to stay limber and reduce stress. If you want to try Yoga online, click here.

Energy-saving hacks:

✅ Break tasks into smaller steps
🪑 Use tools that reduce strain, like ergonomic chairs. These two stores offer a lot of useful products; click here and here.
⏸️ Schedule rest breaks throughout the day

Mental Health Matters 🧠❤️

Coping with RRMS can be emotionally taxing. Here’s how to stay strong:

🎨 Try hobbies, music, or art to lift your spirits
👥 Connect with friends or support groups to share your journey
🗣️ Talk to a therapist or counselor who understands chronic illness

Mindfulness tip: Meditation and breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.

Finding Support and Community 🤝

You don’t have to face RRMS alone:

📱 Join online and in-person support groups to connect with others who share similar experiences, exchange advice, and build a sense of community.
📚 Use educational tools and webinars from trusted sources like the National MS Society
Consider talking to an online therapist. Click here.

Nutrition Tips for RRMS 🥦

Focus on anti-inflammatory foods: Fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and omega-3 fats
Supplements to ask about: Vitamin D, omega-3s, and probiotics. For supplements made for people with MS, click here.
Foods to limit: Processed snacks, excess salt, sugary drinks, and trans fats

How Exercise Can Help 💪

Exercise boosts both body and mind:

🧘 Yoga or Pilates for flexibility. This rowing machine is also great. Click here.
🚶 Walking or swimming for cardio
🏋️ Light strength training for muscle tone

A physical therapist can create a plan that works for your abilities and goals.

Alternative Therapies 🌿

Some people find relief with:

🌸 Acupuncture
🧘 Meditation
🌿 CBD or medical cannabis (ask your doctor first)

Early research is promising, but these should complement — not replace conventional treatment.

RRMS in Women vs. Men ⚧️

Women are generally more at risk of developing RRMS (possibly related to hormonal or genetic factors). While men are less frequently affected, men may progress more rapidly, also developing increased disability over time.
Pregnancy often reduces relapse risk (temporarily!) — but the postpartum period may bring flares.

Talk to your doctor about adjusting meds before, during, and after pregnancy.

RRMS in Kids 👧🧒

RRMS is very rare in the pediatric population, but can occur. The symptoms are the same in children; however, diagnosing RRMS is probably more challenging.

Family-centered care approaches that connect physicians, families, and schools are necessary so that children with RRMS can continue to develop, as a whole person emotionally, physically, and academically.

Family-centered care is a collaborative process with the three different stakeholders (physician, family and school) working together to provide each other with insight, support, resources, safety nets, and guidance in providing an intervention.

Each of these stakeholders (physician, family, and school) can contribute to the overall care for the child. A physician's professional knowledge mostly focuses on a medical response generally associated with health and well-being, and the potential for various courses of treatment/intervention.

A family can provide emotional support, and also advocate for their child both socially and academically. The school can manage the academic details, due to the health-related situation, by adjusting their instruction, or using some other plan of action to address the issue.

The value of family-centered care doesn't just equate to health outcomes for the child; it can promote the recognition of development and growth too. Additionally, it is important to keep each of the stakeholders consistently informed about the care provided and any ongoing issues or concerns. By working in a partnership as a team and community, the child will have the greater support.

Planning for the Future 🗂️

Prepare for changes:

-Think about things like mobility devices (click here and here), accessibility, and lifestyle changes

-Update your insurance and legal paperwork (like your power of attorney) to ensure they are current and accurately reflect your circumstances, and provide the coverage or authority as needed.

-Stay up-to-date on the promising RRMS research - it is hopeful news for the future!

Final Thoughts 💬

RRMS can be difficult to manage, but you are not alone! Take charge and develop a support system for yourself, and find what works for YOU!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓

✅ Can RRMS be cured or reversed? Not at this time, but medical treatments can not only slow down the progression of the disease but also limit the number of attacks. Early intervention and careful monitoring of RRMS can help considerably enhance your quality of life. I also encourage lifestyle changes, physical therapy and healthy eating to help with it too.

✅ How long does a remission last in RRMS? A remission can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few years, it varies from person to person.

✅ What is the average age of RRMS onset? Most people are 20 to 40 years old when they are diagnosed.

✅ Is RRMS considered a disability? It can be. It all depends on your daily life and how RRMS affects you. You may qualify for benefits through the ADA.

✅ Are there any exciting new treatments for RRMS? Yes, countless B-cell studies and research in the area of remyelination for MS, and many more coming down the pipe. Need to ask your neurologist when you see them!

You can do this. Knowledge is power — and life with RRMS can still be fulfilling and rewarding with the right support and a plan. 🌟

References

1. Compston A, Coles A. Multiple sclerosis. Lancet. 2008;372(9648):1502–17. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(08)61620-7.

2. National Institutes of Health. Multiple sclerosis information page. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/multiple-sclerosis

3. Brownlee WJ, Hardy TA, Fazekas F, Miller DH. Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: progress and challenges. Lancet. 2017;389(10076):1336–46. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(16)30959-X.

4. Hauser SL, Cree BAC. Treatment of multiple sclerosis: a review. Am J Med. 2020;133(12):1380–90. doi:10.1016/j.amjmed.2020.05.049.

5. Marrie RA. Comorbidity in multiple sclerosis: implications for patient care. Nat Rev Neurol. 2017;13(6):375–82. doi:10.1038/nrneurol.2017.38.