How is transverse myelitis treated?
Reducing the inflamation A short course of corticosteroids such as prednisolone or ethylprednisolone by mouth or by injection is usually given to dampen down the inflammation. All drugs have potential side effects and these will be explained to you by your doctor. The length of treatment depends on your progress, but may last several weeks if oral prednisolone alone is given. Alternatively, a three-day course of methylprednisolone may be given via a vein in the arm. Short courses of corticosteroids considerably reduce the chance of side effects. Because of weakness of the legs and bladder disturbance, general nursing care and physiotherapy is vital to prevent complications. If the bladder is affected, it may be better to place a catheter into the bladder to avoid holding on to urine. This will usually be a short-term measure. Pain control Some people with transverse myelitis experience either occasional or fairly constant pain. The pain can arise from muscle strain caused from using th
