Types of MS
Multiple sclerosis can vary considerably among individuals, since it attacks the nervous system in different locations. In the majority of MS cases, symptoms in the early stages of the condition occur abruptly in transient episodes without any recognisable cause. The sudden occurrence of symptoms or a change for the worse is known as a relapse (relapsing nature of the condition).
Symptoms then improve after a few days or weeks. This is known as a remission. With time there may either be a complete or partial recovery. However, sometimes the symptoms or a loss of function may remain permanently, even in remission. Continuous rehabilitation, physical and mental training will help you to recover as much as possible from such a loss of function.
MS never sleeps, however, there can be periods of less MS activity.
Four different forms of MS are known:
• Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)
• Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS)
• Primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS)
• Benign MS
The relapsing-remitting form of MS is the most common type, affecting more than 80% of people with MS. In the early phases, symptoms may be lacking, sometimes even for several years. But attacks are unpredictable and symptoms may pop up at any time. New or previously known symptoms may occur suddenly, last for a few days or weeks and then disappear again. In between relapses, there seems to be a lack of any progression of MS.
Secondary progressive multiple sclerosis may follow the relapsing-remitting phase of the condition and is regarded as the more advanced form of MS. Up to 40% of people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis may go on to develop secondary progressive MS. After periods of attacks and remissions, SPMS may develop and is marked by continuous progression with or without occasional relapses, minor remissions and plateaus.
Primary progressive multiple sclerosis is rare and only affects about 10% of all people living with MS. Progression from onset is steady. Symptoms progressively worsen and disability gradually increases. There are no relapse-like episodes and no periods of remission, only occasional plateaus and temporary minor improvements.
Benign multiple sclerosis is characterised, as the name suggests, by as little as one initial relapse and possibly only one additional attack and full recovery in between these episodes. It may be 20 years until a second relapse occurs, therefore only little progression of the condition is experienced.
