FAQs
What exactly does MS progression mean?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can be thought of as a spectrum, which people often move along through their life. The way the disease changes is unique to each individual and to the phases of MS.
Subtle worsening in the type, severity and frequency of symptoms, whether visible or invisible, physical or cognitive, can be signs of MS progression6,7.
If symptoms do seem to be getting slowly worse, it is important to take action as soon as possible, because the kinds of treatments and support needed – both practical and emotional - might change too.
What are the signs that my MS might be progressing?
It is worth remembering that the signs of MS progression look different for each person, however symptoms may include8:
- Cognitive changes, such as memory issues
- Increased fatigue and feeling exhausted
- Difficulties with bladder control
- Difficulties walking, with more reliance on walking aids.
Changes in ‘invisible’ symptoms of MS such as fatigue, pain and vision problems, can be harder to spot, but these may be important signs of MS progression8. Family and friends can help in spotting signs of the condition progressing, as they may be the people who notice small symptom changes first.
Why is SPMS difficult to diagnose?
Due to the changing nature of MS symptoms, a transition from RRMS to SPMS can be difficult to detect, so SPMS is often diagnosed with the benefit of hindsight8.
There is no test to show that someone’s MS is now secondary progressive9. Diagnosis is often made by looking at changes across the previous year or so. Some changes are described as ‘invisible’: symptoms such as fatigue, pain and vision problems can be harder to spot, but these are very important signs of MS progression.
Why is it important to spot symptom changes early?
Early SPMS diagnosis and management is crucial to ensuring the right kind of care is received which can therefore potentially lead to slowing down the rate of disability10.
Changes in the type and severity of MS symptoms you experience can happen over time, so this progression of the condition may not be that noticeable at first. Your symptoms may become more challenging and, while it might seem strange, you may even experience fewer relapses—not more.
The individual types of MS (RRMS, PPMS, and SPMS) generally require different methods of management. Everyone has their own way of managing their MS, but by monitoring changes and communicating them to your MS specialist, neurologist, or MS nurse, you can address the possibility of your MS progressing and work with your healthcare professionals to find the right care for you.
