Course of multiple sclerosis

Depending on the patient, the course of multiple sclerosis can vary and can be more severe in some cases and milder in others. In the relapsing-remitting form (the most common form of multiple sclerosis), the symptoms decrease completely after the relapses. This is the most favorable course for the patient, as he/she can lead an independent life and work more often.

In secondary, progressive multiple sclerosis, there is a worsening of the symptoms after the attacks, which later become permanent. Patients with this form of the disease increasingly need aids for everyday life. In the case of primary, progressive multiple sclerosis, the symptoms appear without attacks and do not disappear.

The patient’s condition can deteriorate permanently. In most cases, the inflammatory processes in multiple sclerosis occur in relapses, which, depending on the form, occur at greater or lesser distances from each other. The intervals between relapses range from at least 30 days to several months or years.

This results in a worsening of the symptoms, which can occur quickly or only develop over days. When a relapse occurs in multiple sclerosis, they last for at least 24 hours. When the relapse subsides, the symptoms also recede or, in some cases, may even subside completely.

However, the more frequent and severe the relapses, the more difficult it will be for the symptoms to disappear. The intensity of the worsening can be different for each patient. If the therapy succeeds in controlling the inflammation in the central nervous system, the interval between the relapses will be extended.

Life expectancy in multiple sclerosis

Can one get old with multiple sclerosis? This question can definitely be answered with a yes. Patients can live beyond the age of 70, so it is possible to grow old even if the disease is severe. Although multiple sclerosis can lead to a massive loss of independence, it is not fatal.

Is multiple sclerosis inheritable?

If a couple has a child and one or both parents have multiple sclerosis, the child does not have to have it. Multiple sclerosis is not inheritable. Merely the favour for this, can be given to the child. There is only a small percentage of patients who also have a family disposition (predisposition). Thus, the predisposition alone is not decisive and environmental factors must also be taken into account.