MWS stands for Muckle-Wells Syndrome. MWS was first recognised in a family in the early 1960s by 2 doctors named Thomas James Muckle and Michael Vernon Wells. Since then, doctors have learned much more about MWS.

The symptoms of MWS listed below are similar to FCAS symptoms, but they occur more often and may last longer.

These symptoms include:

• A rash that keeps coming back
• Fever
• Feeling weak or tired
• Pain in the joints
• Headache
• Chills
• Sore or red eyes
• Pain in the muscles

Possible additional symptoms:

• Gradual loss of hearing
• High protein levels in the kidneys

Related Pages:

• For MWS treatments visit the CAPS Treatments page
• Learn more about NOMID, the most acute CAPS syndrome
• Compare with FCAS symptoms

• Overview
• About Canadian CAPS Network
• About CAPS
• Treatments
• FCAS - Facts, Symptoms and Patient Story
• MWS - Facts, Symptoms and Patient Story
• NOMID - Facts and Symptoms

• Download the CAPS Patient booklet
• Download the CCN Terms of Reference
• Download the CCN Membership Form
• References

MWS Patient Story

I was disgnosed with Muckle-Wells when I was little, but back then there was no answer to it. When I started work I will never forget what a struggle it was for me - not just the total lack of energy, but also the aches and pains and those awful migraines! I had so many sleepless nights. Now with the treatment I can lead a normal life, for the first time ever I have energy to do things people normally take for granted, such as a full time job or dinner in a restarurant. It's been a total transformation.

MWS Symptoms

Pain in the joints in MWS

Like FCAS, people with MWS usually start having symptoms from birth. Occasionally, symptoms may start later in childhood.

Symptoms can occur without any obvious reason. Only a few things have been linked to starting or making symptoms of MWS worse.For example, symptoms can begin after a person is exposed to cold temperature, feels stressed, or when the body is tired.

There may be some days when symptoms are not felt, but they always come back. These symptoms may start any time after being set off. Most symptoms last 1 to 2 days, although some can last longer.

Some people may not know that they have MWS, but their symptoms will make them aware that something is wrong. If you think you have MWS, you should see your doctor.

It is important to be diagnosed and get treatment from your doctor. Treatment can help relieve symptoms and, in some cases, may eliminate them.