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.