Although there is no standard form of MS, certain factors play a significant role in the long-term course and outcome of the disease.
- In the case of slight impairment in the first five years, two-thirds of people with MS are also relatively stable over a period of 15 years; and
- In the case of a rapid increase of impairment from the beginning, pronounced impairment is to be expected after 15 years. The following are taken to be indications of a favourable course of the disease.
The following are taken to be indications of a favourable course of the disease:
- Disturbances of sensation or vision as initial symptoms;
- Complete remission of disturbances; and
- No impairment after a period of five years.
The following are signs of a less favourable course:
- Paralytic symptoms at the onset of the illness;
- Deficits continuing even at the start;
- An advanced age when the illness begins; and
- A high rate of episodic attacks in the course of the disease.
Other important facts about MS include:
- MS is not a mortal disease and only a few people die from complications of far-advanced MS;
- The life expectancy of people with MS is approximately equivalent to that of people without the illness; and
- About one half of all those affected can look forward to a relatively favourable course of the disease without severe limitations.
