Are you wondering what a pseudo flare (also called a pseudoexacerbation or pseudo-relapse) is and how it differs from a true MS relapse?
A pseudo flare is a temporary worsening of existing MS symptoms that is *not* caused by new disease activity or new damage to the brain or spinal cord. It typically resolves within 24 Show Full Answer
Are you wondering what a pseudo flare (also called a pseudoexacerbation or pseudo-relapse) is and how it differs from a true MS relapse?
A pseudo flare is a temporary worsening of existing MS symptoms that is *not* caused by new disease activity or new damage to the brain or spinal cord. It typically resolves within 24 hours once the trigger is addressed. Common triggers include:
- Heat or hot weather
- Stress
- Fatigue or physical overexertion
- Infections (urinary tract infections are the most common cause)
- Fever
As one MyMSTeam member put it: "When I am tired, hot, or stressed, I will have a pseudo-flare. Once I am cool, calm, and collected, my symptoms go away." How is it different from a true relapse?
A true MS relapse involves new or worsening symptoms that last *longer than 24 hours*, are not explained by an external trigger, and follow a stable period of at least 30 days. A pseudo flare doesn't cause new lesions and won't show up as new damage on an MRI. What should be done?
If symptoms last more than 24 hours, significantly affect daily activities like walking or vision, or feel severe, it's important to contact a neurologist promptly. They can help determine whether it's a true relapse or a pseudo flare and recommend next steps.
Managing known triggers — like staying cool, reducing stress, and treating infections early — can help reduce how often pseudo flares occur.
September 3
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