Relapses
Most people with MS experience the relapsing-remitting form of the disease where symptoms appear suddenly (called an attack, relapse or exacerbation), followed by periods of recovery or remission.
How do you know if you're having a relapse?
A relapse is characterised by existing symptoms worsening or new symptoms that appear, that last for at least 24 hours and they can stay around for days, weeks or even months although it varies from person to person.
Sometimes environmental conditions can cause a temporary worsening of symtoms that may mimic a relapse - such as fatigue, such as if you have a hot bath or shower, if it's a hot day outside or if you have a temperature due to an underlying infection. All of these things can cause a temporary worsening of symptoms that will improve when you cool down, the weather cools down or when your infection resolves.
What should I do if I think I'm having a relapse?
Contact a member of the client services team or your GP to discuss how you're feeling, what the symptoms are and when they began. Either the MS society staff member of the client services team or your GP can advise whether you may need to see your neurologist or whether just to monitor your symtoms for the time being. Your neurologist may recommend treatment with steroids, or rehabilitation options such as physiotherapy, or no treatment at all depending on your situation.
It is also important not to overlook symptoms that may not be caused by your MS which is why it's important to contact your GP to discuss any new symptoms that concern you.
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