Is neuromyelitis optica more severe with each recurrence?
Sep 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Shichang
Introduction
In general, neuromyelitis optica relapses tend to become increasingly severe with each episode. Since nerve cells are not regenerative, patients may accumulate more severe neurological disabilities after each relapse. When clinical symptoms recur, it is recommended that patients promptly return to the hospital for follow-up evaluations, including MRI and other examinations, to determine whether new lesions have developed, and to prevent disease progression and delays in treatment.
In general, neuromyelitis optica (NMO) relapses tend to become increasingly severe with each recurrence. The specific analysis is as follows:
Neuromyelitis optica has a high risk of recurrence. Since nerve cells are not regenerative, repeated relapses lead to progressively worse neurological disability. Patients may gradually develop vision loss, eventually leading to blindness, as well as paralysis of the lower limbs or even quadriplegia. It is essential for patients to properly take prescribed medications under a doctor's guidance to prevent complications and avoid discontinuing medication arbitrarily. In daily life, patients should consume high-protein and high-calorie foods and engage in regular physical exercises to strengthen limb function and alleviate muscle contractures.
When clinical symptoms recur, patients are advised to promptly return to the hospital for follow-up evaluations, including MRI scans, to identify any new lesions and prevent disease progression or delayed treatment.
