Multiple sclerosis exacerbation
Multiple Sclerosis Exacerbation: What is It?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder, in which the body’s immune system attacks the protective myelin layer of nerve cells in the central nervous system. This leads to a wide array of neurological symptoms and changes in sensory, motor and cognitive functioning. When MS exhibits a sudden onset or an increase in severity of symptoms, it is known as an MS exacerbation, or “flare-up.”
Common Symptoms of an MS Exacerbation
Symptoms of an MS exacerbation are variable and may include:
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Blurred vision and/or pain with eye movement
- Double vision
- Sensory disturbances including numbness, tingling, and/or an electrical sensation along the skin
- Increase in fatigue and/or difficulty with balance or coordination
What Causes Exacerbations?
The exact cause of exacerbations is not known. However, some common triggers can include:
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Infections (bacterial and viral)
- Temperature extremes
- Hormonal changes or fluctuations in hormone levels
- Medication or supplement changes
Managing MS Exacerbations
It is important for people with multiple sclerosis to track their symptoms, as this can help in identifying an exacerbation. Keep a log of flare-up symptoms, length of flare-up, and anything that you may thing had an effect (such as shifts in environment, medications, etc.). This allows your doctor to get a better idea of the pattern of your symptoms.
Treatment for an exacerbation is usually a course of corticosteroids. Non-medication treatment “rescue” options can include:
- Hydrotherapy (also referred to as water therapy)
- Physical Therapy
- Changes in diet or nutrition
- Absolute rest or bed rest
- Meditation or yoga
- Heat or cold treatments