Relapses (also called exacerbations, flare-ups, or attacks) result
from an area of inflammation in the central nervous system
(brain and spinal cord). Inflammation in such an area causes
disturbance to the normal activity the area governs and the
result can be the variety of symptoms associated with MS. Relapses
are treated with steroids which act to suppress the inflammation
and restore function. These drugs tend to lessen the severity
and duration of relapses and speed up the return of function.
The steroids most commonly used include prednisone,and intravenous
methylprednisolone.
Used infrequently over the short term steroids are considered
to be relatively safe by most practitioners. The short term side
effects may include difficulty sleeping, and stomach upset as
well as irritability. Over the long term these drugs may impact
on many other areas including liver and kidneys and bone density,
to name a few, and so long term and/or frequent use is to be
avoided.
