You can schedule an appointment with our neurology team by calling 617-525-6550 or by submitting a request through our secure online form. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Most people with multiple sclerosis have a form of the disease called relapsing-remitting MS that causes periodic symptoms alternating with periods of reduced or no symptoms. When you experience an episode of symptoms, it's called a multiple sclerosis "flare-up."
"MS flare-up" is one name for the recurring bouts of symptoms that people with RRMS (and some other types of MS) experience. Other names you may hear include:
These are all terms that describe the same thing: a period in which your MS is causing new or returning symptoms. There's no medical difference between an MS relapse vs. a flare vs. an MS attack.
To count as a flare-up, an MS attack needs to last at least 24 hours. However, it's common for symptomatic periods to come on suddenly—sometimes in just a few hours—and then peak after several days.
Early in the disease’s progression, MS flare-ups typically occur about once every 12 to 18 months. Over time, your MS flare-ups may occur more frequently, last longer, and fade more slowly or incompletely.
Eventually, most people with MS reach a point of experiencing a slow, general decline rather than periodic MS flares. When that happens, your doctor may diagnose you with secondary progressive MS (SPMS).
Multiple sclerosis flare-up symptoms are the same as the general symptoms of MS:
For patients with RRMS, a kind of treatment called "disease-modifying therapy" can help reduce the frequency and duration of MS flare-ups. In the long run, this can have a significant positive effect on the disease's progression.
During an active multiple sclerosis flare-up, treatment options focus on reducing inflammation. Corticosteroids are the first-line treatment. If they aren't effective, you may receive injectable medications, IV infusions, or plasma exchange (replacing part of your blood).
The Brigham Multiple Sclerosis Center specializes in comprehensive care for multiple sclerosis patients. Learn more about disease-modifying therapy and other treatments for multiple sclerosis.
At the highest level, MS flare-ups are caused by an autoimmune reaction where your body mistakenly attacks your nervous system.
However, triggers that may provoke or worsen a multiple sclerosis attack include:
If you have MS, flu-like symptoms may be cause for concern. Some studies show that the flu can cause MS attacks, so it's important for MS patients to get an annual flu shot—but get it when you aren't currently experiencing a multiple sclerosis flare-up or taking DMTs to treat your MS.
Usually, MS attacks—though unpleasant—don't require a trip to the emergency room. However, if your symptoms cause significant problems like severe pain, trouble eating, difficulty walking, or inability to move, you may need to seek emergency care.
The number one sign that your MS is getting worse is that your relapses last longer, happen more often, and take longer to recover. Often, increased difficulty walking is one of the first signs that you're moving from RRMS to SPMS.
The Multiple Sclerosis Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital is internationally recognized for providing the most advanced treatment options for people with MS. Its expert care is strengthened by a leading clinical research program at the forefront of discovery.
You can schedule an appointment with our neurology team by calling 617-525-6550 or by submitting a request through our secure online form.
What is multiple sclerosis (MS) and what are the symptoms of MS? Learn about testing and treatment options for MS, as well as the best ways to manage symptoms and future inflammatory relapses from Kristin M. Galetta, M.D., Neurologist, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Michael Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Neurologist, Massachusetts General Hospital.
For over a century, a leader in patient care, medical education and research, with expertise in virtually every specialty of medicine and surgery.
About BWH
