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Types of MS

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong condition that progresses slowly in most people. Some people only get a few mild symptoms followed by long periods of stability whereas others find their symptoms get steadily worse over time.

When symptoms occur suddenly it is called a ‘relapse’. When symptoms disappear or improve for a period of time, the MS is said to be in ‘remission’.
The course the condition takes is difficult to predict and varies greatly from one patient to another. There are three recognized ways of describing the different types of MS:

Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS)

• About 80% of people with MS have RMMS at onset.
• People with RRMS experience attacks or relapses followed by periods of good or complete remission.
• Attacks can last from days to weeks or months and symptoms can vary from day to day.

  

  Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS)

  • About 50% of people with RRMS develop SPMS during the first 10 years of their illness.
  • People with SPMS have fewer and fewer relapses, and begin to have constant, steady worsening of symptoms.
  • For some people the progression of disability is gradual, for others it can occur more quickly.

    

    Primary progressive MS (PPMS)

    • About 10-15% of people with MS have PPMS at onset.
    • Symptoms and disability develop from the start and get worse over time.
    • Some people with PPMS have a steady increase in disability, while others may plateau or have a gradual worsening.