Guide To The Types Of Multiple Sclerosis

Progressive-Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis

Progressive-relapsing multiple sclerosis (PRMS) is a form of multiple sclerosis differentiated by a disease course described as a steady progressive decline in neurologic function from the initial onset of the disease with occasional periods of relapse. Around five percent of all individuals diagnosed with multiple sclerosis have the PRMS variation of the disease. The relapses that occur in patients who have PRMS may last anywhere from twenty-four hours to many weeks. The patient may experience new symptoms or have old symptoms worsen during the periods of relapse. In progressive-relapsing multiple sclerosis, there are no periods of remission or stability where the patient will have no or few apparent symptoms. The flare-ups or relapses that occur in affected individuals are caused by inflammation while the progressive worsening nature of PRMS is a result of nerve loss and damage. Some medical professionals use the terms active PRMS and not active PRMS to describe whether the patient is or is not in the middle of a relapse.