Relapse VS Pseudo-relapse

[Lulu54]

We kicked this question around here on the forum a while back and couldn't come up with a clear explanation of how we know which is happening to us when symptoms kick in.  This pondering was during my problems that arose from my UTI.

I saw my MSologist (his phrase!)  today and asked if he would tell me the difference.  Here is the explanation I heard today ......

He explained in detail what makes a relapse ---- this was the stuff we already know, but I listened politely anyway and here is the synopsis again in case you are new to this:

A relapse is when you have a new symptom that lasts over 24 hours  OR  a reoccuring symptom, one you have had before, but hadn't experienced in the past 30 days

PLUS  you have been relapse free for over 30 days for it to count as a new relapse


The true relapse originates in the CNS.   He then said that there are two primary causes for a pseudo-relapse - fever or infection.  Pseudo-relapses happen because of external causes that can be removed and then the symptoms disappear or go away gradually.

So here in Quix's nutshell --- pseudo-relapse is his answer to my UTI induced problems in July.  

Pseudo or Real, they both can be treated with steroids if there is evidence of  extreme inflammation.

You're probably tired of hearing how much I like my neuro, but I really do!  I wish he could be cloned and shipped  out to all of you! I always learn something new in easy to understand langugage  when I have an appt.

be well,  Lulu

[Lulu54]

Most probably - the UTI caused symptoms would be a pseudo relapse.  Did the symptom go away when the infection was removed?

You could have an infection at the same time as having a real relapse.  The clue is if it goes away when the fever or infection is resolved.

The April and August events sound like the real deal to me.  But remember, I am no medical expert!!!

Lu

[lovemy6monkeys]

Ok, to make sure I understand this...(you would think being asleep by 8:30 last night would leave my mind a bit clearer than it is LOL)

-In April I had vertigo, 3 days of IV steroids & prednisone taper cleared it up in about a week.

-May, I had a buzzing/vibrating feeling running up my right lower leg. Another 3 days of steroids/prednisone taper cleared it up. Around this time (I can't remember if it was before of after) I had an UTI.

-August, the vertigo came back but not as severe as it was the first time. I did not do steroids, and it has been about 3 weeks since it started. It has gotten much better, but I'll feel it if I'm tired, or I also get dizzy if the kids spin around where I can see them (or a movie has too many fast action scenes, etc)

So, would the vertigo in April & August be considered relapses, and the buzzing feeling in May a pseudo-relapse?
~Jess

[Quixotic1]

Thanks for another wording of the distinction, Lu.

Jen - you are exactly right.  Three days is about how long it takes the immune system to get up and going.

Q

[jensequitur]

Yup, sounds like he knows what he's talking about.

Often an illness can bring on an actual relapse for me - but it's usually three days or so after the illness.