MyMSTeam

What is a flare-up in RRMS?

A flare-up (also called a relapse or exacerbation) is when new MS symptoms appear or old symptoms get worse. For it to be considered a true flare, it needs to:

- Last at least 24 hours
- Happen at least 30 days after your last flare
- Not be caused by fever, infection, or overheating

Flares Show Full Answer

What is a flare-up in RRMS?

A flare-up (also called a relapse or exacerbation) is when new MS symptoms appear or old symptoms get worse. For it to be considered a true flare, it needs to:

- Last at least 24 hours
- Happen at least 30 days after your last flare
- Not be caused by fever, infection, or overheating

Flares can involve different symptoms each time, like vision changes, weakness, dizziness, numbness, or cognitive issues. They typically last between 24-48 hours but can continue for weeks or months.

About your chronic pain:

The constant neck and upper shoulder pain you're experiencing might not be a flare-up if it's ongoing without periods of improvement. True RRMS follows a pattern of relapses followed by remissions, where symptoms partially or completely disappear.

If you're always in pain without any relief periods, this could indicate a few things:

- Your MS might be highly active and not well-controlled
- You could be experiencing progression
- The pain might be a persistent symptom rather than individual flares

Next steps:

It's important to talk with your neurologist about this chronic pain. They can evaluate whether your treatment plan needs adjustment and determine if your MS pattern is changing.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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