Description of Progressive MS

I cannot find the description of progressive MS. What does it do? How does it affect your body? How bad can it get since their is no treatment per say?

My mother was diagnosed with progressive MS. I am only 29 years old. I worry she will be less and less able to take care of herself.

Please explain to me the steps and the timeline of this disease so I can foresee what will happen to her.

Thank you

The course of progressive MS is generally one of gradually worsening disability. There may, however, be periods of stability and for some individuals these periods of stability can last for years. By about 5 to 7 years from onset of progressive disease, about half of people with progressive MS will require a cane to walk and by about 13 years, half will require a wheelchair. There is considerable variability from person to person so that for some progression may be much slower and for others more rapid. Since each case is different, you might want to seek some guidance from your mother’s neurologist as to how best to help your mother.

Dr. Mary Lou Myles