Have you had a multiple sclerosis relapse recently? Actually, would you know if you had? In fact, would you be aware whether you are had a relapse or a pseudo-relapse?
Pseudo? What’s that? Read on.
A true relapse – or flare-up, exacerbation, even attack – is a time of new or worsening of MS symptoms.
For your episode to be recognized as a true MS relapse, four conditions have to be met. These are:
• Existing symptoms of MS must have become worse or new symptoms appeared.
• Symptoms must last at least 24 hours.
• Symptoms must occur at least 30 days after the last relapse.
• There must be no other explanation for the symptoms.
However, even knowing this list, identifying what you have can be difficult. And it matters not whether you have had MS for years or are newly diagnosed. Telling the difference between a true or pseudo-relapse is more than a little tricky.
Telling the difference
On the upside, pseudo-relapse symptoms tend not to last long. Indeed, they may resolve within a day. Additionally, if your symptoms are caused by something else that can be treated, such treatment will resolve the problem.
Most importantly, pseudo-relapses are not caused by new damage to the central nervous system. A pseudo-relapse is NOT associated with an active MS lesion on MRI.
So, what are likely to cause pseudo-relapses? Well, they may be caused by heat sensitivity or infections including the common cold.
Once you get over these infections, your MS symptoms should get better.
Medications, both for MS and for other conditions, can also cause new symptoms. Be sure to discuss any medications you are taking with your healthcare provider.
True or pseudo-relapse?
Here are some clues to help you decide if your episode is true or not.
Timing: If your worsened symptoms resolve fairly quickly, it is likely that you may have a pseudo-relapse.
Old symptoms: Reappearance of old symptoms is more common in a pseudo-relapse. Generally, you will not experience another true relapse in exactly the same way as a previous one.
Types of symptoms: Some worsened symptoms are more likely to be a pseudo-relapse than a true relapse. These include sudden worsening of spasticity and pain, which are certainly seen in MS, but are rarely due to an acute relapse.
As someone with secondary progressive MS, and who has inactive lesions, I don’t get true relapses. Pseudo-relapses are, though, a way of life – especially if I have an infection.
I have been sneezing a lot in the past few days and am starting to get that ´blocked up´ feeling – sure signs that a cold is on the way. Oh joy, my MS symptoms are set to get worse temporarily – my very own pseudo-relapse.
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50shadesofsun.com is the personal website of Ian Franks, a freelance medical writer and editor for various health information sites. He enjoyed a successful career as a journalist, from reporter to editor in the print media. He gained a Journalist of the Year award in his native UK. Ian received a diagnosis of MS in 2002 and now lives in the south of Spain. He uses a wheelchair and advocates on mobility and accessibility issues.
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Note: Health-related information available on 50shadesofsun website is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. I am not a doctor and cannot and do not give you medical advice. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult a doctor before starting a new diet or exercise programme. Any opinions expressed are purely my own unless otherwise stated.