Ahh, the question we’re all afraid to ask for fear of looking stupid. Initially when I got my diagnosis, I realized that I knew next to nothing about Multiple Sclerosis. It was only after spending some time doing extensive research that I felt like I could finally grasp an understanding of what MS is and all the different forms it can take.
I am no doctor, nor am I a medical professional, so I’m using information found on the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s website here to explain the definition.
Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable, sometimes disabling disease of the central nervous system. Essentially, the body’s immune system targets the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, and causes inflammation that damages the fatty substance that insulates the nerve fibers–called myelin–as well as the nerve fibers themselves, and the specialized cells which make the myelin.
When these nerve fibers are destroyed, the CNS either receives mixed messages or no messages at all. This damage can lead to neurological symptoms which vary in severity and type depending on the person. Some examples of symptoms are: numbness, tingling, spasticity, fatigue, vision problems, bladder problems, gait issues, dizziness, pain, and cognitive issues.
The disease gets its name from the damaged scar tissue that develops after the nerve fibers are destroyed. Multiple Sclerosis = multiple areas of scarring.
There are four disease courses that Multiple Sclerosis can take:
Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS)
Clinically Isolated Syndrome, typically shortened to CIS, refers to the first episode of neurologic symptoms that last at least 24 hours and is caused by loss of myelin that covers the nerve cells in the nervous system. However, because this is the first episode of these symptoms, it is not enough to diagnose a person with MS.
Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS)
Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis is the most common course the disease can take. In fact, it accounts for 85% of people diagnosed with MS (I’m one of these people). RRMS is characterized by clearly defined attacks of new or increasing neurologic symptoms. These attacks are followed by partial or complete recovery–when one is in “remission”. During periods of remission, there is no apparent progression of the disease.
I want to flag that each person’s experience with RRMS is unique. What occurs for one person is NOT what occurs for another.
Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)
Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis initially follows a relapsing-remitting course. Most people who are diagnosed with RRMS will eventually transition to this course in which there is a progressive accumulation of disability (worsening of neurologic function), without any evidence of disease activity.
Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS)
Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis, like SPMS, has a course where there is a progressive accumulation of disability right from the onset of symptoms without relapses or remissions. About 15% of people with MS are diagnosed with PPMS. An interesting factoid to note is that the average age of onset is about 10 years later than in Relapsing MS.
As you can see, it’s a lot of information to digest and process–especially if you’re at the beginning of your chronic illness “journey” (and I promise that’s the last time you’ll hear me use that phrase).
I can’t stress this enough: talking with your healthcare provider is an excellent way to quell your fears and have your questions answered. If you’re like me, this could prove to be a difficult exercise in vulnerability and letting go, but I promise– it will help you out in the long run.
In health,
D
All information and definitions taken from The National Multiple Sclerosis Society , a truly excellent website.
Living in Color 