RRMS to Secondary Progressive?
Hi - I've very new to MS and I would love to know if anyone out there can give me a better understanding of how and when it's possible to get Secondary Progressive MS?
My initial understanding was that it is something someone with RRMS gets after a series of relapses and thus comes after a few years at a minimum (mainly later in life). But recently I've heard something contary to this that, in fact, it's possible to get secondary progressive at any point - even after just one or two attacks - it's just yet another unpredictable part of the world of MS.
Hoping someone will be able to shed some light on this - thanks!
Hi @piers83 and welcome. You can read all about Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS) here:- https://support.mstrust.org.uk/file/secondary-progressive-ms.pdf As far as I'm concerned, it's all a bit subjective, dependent on how you read the situation. :wink:
Hello @piers83. I was diagnosed this year too. Funnily enough, I joined in on a conversation the other day on Shift in which we said how frustrating the mystery element of the condition is. I am used to the diagnosis pretty much but still don't understand the difference between relapses, pseudo exacerbation and average daily niggles. There is no set pattern of understanding things, because everyone is so different. Everyone on Shift has heir own story and version of events. The best thing that you, and anyone can do, is to look at modifying lifestyle, ensuring a healthy balanced diet, trying exercise, and avoiding all stress wherever possible. These things won't cure, or prevent relapses but will give you optimum chance of recovery and keeping things in check. I think too, we have to learn to trust the neuros and MS nurses as they have huge experience and am sure they face the same questions over and over. So, I for one share your confusion! Sorry I can't be helpful, but at least you know you're not alone! X