There are several MS Subtypes. A person diagnosed with MS may have any one of them. Multiple Sclerosis Subtypes or MS Subtypes can be categorized depending on their progression, as well as the progression and intensity of the symptoms generated.
The first type of Multiple Sclerosis is the most common one and is known as relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis. This type of the autoimmune disorder accounts for more than 80% of all Multiple Sclerosis cases. It is characterized by phases of symptomatic remission followed by phases of relapse that may also include intensification of symptoms. The duration of relapse and remission may vary from patient to patient and may last anywhere from weeks to years. The second subtype is known as primary-progressive Multiple Sclerosis and accounts for about 20% of all Multiple Sclerosis cases. It is characterized by gradual progression of the disease with very brief phases of remission. The third type is known as the secondary-progressive multiple sclerosis. Around 50% of patients with primary-progressive Multiple Sclerosis develop this type.
The fourth of the Multiple Sclerosis Subtypes or MS Subtypes is known as the progressive-relapsing Multiple Sclerosis. This type is characterized by a gradual progression with frequent phases of exacerbation of the symptoms. The fifth type alternates between the primary-progressive, secondary-progressive and progressive-relapsing forms. The sixth subtype is the benign Multiple Sclerosis. This is characterized by an initial symptomatic flare, which is followed by a slow flare up or no progression at all.
The seventh and last subtype is the malignant Multiple Sclerosis, which is characterized by rapid progression. The symptoms are quite intense and often deadly. However, this type is very rare. All of the Multiple Sclerosis Subtypes or MS Subtypes affect the neurons in the brain and the spinal cord, resulting in a loss of signal between the two.
Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis can cause a variety of symptoms, including muscle weakness, abnormal muscle spasms, visual problems, difficulty in moving, difficulty in balance, bowel and bladder difficulties, fatigue, cognitive impairment, acute and chronic pain syndromes and depression. These symptoms often depend on the Multiple Sclerosis Subtypes the patient is suffering from. The disease varies in severity and ranges from mild illness to permanent disability.
Treatment for MS
There is no known cure for Multiple Sclerosis, but several therapies have proved to be quite helpful to alleviate the symptoms. The primary aim of such therapy is to help the patient return to a state of normal functioning after an attack, to prevent more attacks and to prevent disability.
