This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

Hi,

My girlfriend has the flu i think (sore throat,fever,running nose),and we are scared it might trigger a relapse.She had her first ever relapse last month,and we are not sure if this makes it difficult for another relapse to occur so quickly-any strong views on this?

Also,does anyone have any tips about getting some protection from a possible relapse?

Thanx!
Yannis

I seem to remember that Symmetral which is used for MS fatigue, is also anti-viral and is indicated for influenza. Ask your GP or neuro but I think you have to take it early on when you get flu.
Hope she manages to stay clear of the relapse

I have a cold/flu as my only known trigger for a relapse. Recently I have found that a medication called "Tamiflu" works wonders (on certain virus). I now keep a pack in the shelf, and do not hesitate to take some if I think I am developing symptoms of an infection.

I have used it now about 2-3 times for stopping a cold/flu VERY successfully. I also recently went on a one month vacation through 3 countries, and took it for the month as a prophylactic (half the standard dose), and didn't catch anything; I was on about 6 planes trips. I didn't notice any side effects whatsoever. It is now my best friend.

I also have Amantadine (Symmetrel), which I use as a precaution if someone is sick at work, or I sat close to someone sneezing on the bus. It comes in packets of 100, while there are only 10 in a pack of Tamiflu.

If only I had known 10years ago what I know now.

Stress, lack of sleep and colds/viruses all seem to be potential triggers. Help her avoid all 3. Keep your girlfriend well hydrated, rested and if you're a cook, some homemade chicken soup is the best for antiviral and anti-inflammatory propeties. Made with fresh veggies will only help:
Here's a terrific recipe and explanation of chicken soup's healing powers...
http://www.naturalnews.com/021260.html

Some supplements that I believe have kept my husband cold and virus free for eighteen months are: curcumin, vit. A,B, C, D, and E, resveratrol, quercitin, glisodin, omega 3 and 6 oils, and lots of anti-oxidants. We're also rather OCD about handwashing now. Just hot water and soap after being out in the world.

Good luck to you both.
AC

_________________
Husband dx RRMS 3/07
dx dual jugular vein stenosis (CCSVI) 4/09
dual stents placed 5/09
CCSVI in MS

This might sound odd, but for me, letting the fever run its course is better than medicating against the fever. The last two times I was sick, I took nothing, and came out just fine.

because it guaranteed for me to relapse after a flu/cold its so strange to hear of people who aren't affected, but you are not the only one Terry. Not everyone relapses after a cold or flu, just like stress or lack of sleep do not trigger a relapse in me; nothing I know of except the cold/flu (and Flagyl) acts as a trigger.

Thanx for all the advice!

My girlfriend was away for the weekend at a place in the middle of nowhere,so no access to drugs or doctors.She took antibiotics on Monday,3 days after the first flu symptoms and so far (day 5 now i think) she didn't have any MS-related symptoms so fingers crossed no big trouble from the flu.