Relapse Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

A disease of the central nervous system, multiple sclerosis is often characterized by intermittent periods of remission and relapses. Some symptoms that frequently come and go, such as tingling in feet, are not related to relapses. However, these symptoms can cause constant worry for the person with multiple sclerosis that a relapse is imminent. Usually, however, this is not the case.

Identification

• A relapse is defined by a worsening of symptoms or occurrence of new symptoms. Because of this, relapses are also called exacerbations.

Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

• Symptoms of multiple sclerosis include visual problems, muscle weakness, jerking or twitching muscles, numbness, pain, loss of coordination and trembling. Any of these symptoms can signify a relapse if it has not occurred before or if it has now become worse.

Confirmation

• Since relapses may not be rapid or dramatic, the occurrence must be confirmed by a magnetic resonance imaging scan to determine if there is a new lesion on the brain or spinal cord.

Time Frame

• An actual relapse will have symptoms lasting at least 24 hours, although they usually last several weeks. Relapses also must occur at least a month later than a previous relapse, to distinguish it from symptoms of the prior exacerbation, since symptoms can change as the inflammation decreases.

Pseudo-Relapse

• A confusing factor for patients is the pseudo-relapse, a temporary increase in symptoms that usually is associated with a rise in body temperature due to weather, exercise or illness. This is not an actual exacerbation.