Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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RR to Secondary Progressive

Eloise
Eloise
How does one know when progression occurs from relapsing/remitting to secondary progressive? Since I was diagnosed after age 40, I have a 50% chance of progressing. I think I may be and I believe that my neurologist also suspects this. How does one know when that 'line' has been crossed? Is there any drug for secondary progressive? I'm still on copaxone, but nothing has changed. Then again, I guess the drugs are basically to stop relapses. Or are they also supposed to slow progression or halt it? Memory fails me. Go figure.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Even though an earlier neurologist suggested I take avonex anyway, my current--and wonderful--neuro says there is nothing to stop the progression. That is why she said OK to LDN. After my diagnosis during an attack of double vision fourteen years ago, I had one onset of numbness of half my face a year later. Since them no coming and going symptoms only increasing ataxia, creeping numbness of fingers and legs. What began with my toes crept up my legs until it was up to my knees. LDN reversed this to my feet but they are still numb.
deleted_user
deleted_user
http://www.mssociety.org.uk/about_ms/types_of_ms/what_is_spms.html


From This site.. signs ofg going from RR to SP.....
http://www.thjuland.net/multiple-sclerosis.html#T

This (RR) is the most common beginning phase of MS. However, 50% of cases will have progression within 10 - 15 years, and an additional 40% within 25 years of onset; as the disease evolves, into the Secondary/Progressive phase. The clinical signs of progression are:

1. EDSS score in 4-5.5 range
2. Increasing relapse rate
3. PolyRegional relapses (more Functional Systems involved)
4. Incomplete recovery between relapses (progression)
5. Decreasing response to Steroids
6. Decreasing numbers of enhancing lesions
7. Decreasing NAA levels on MR Spectroscopy
8. Increasing T1 HypoIntensities ("Black Holes")
9. Increasing MRI burden of disease
10. Increasing Axonal pathology
11. Increasing Spinal Cord lesions