My neurologist told me. My MRI hadn't changed, but my symptoms were much worse. I asked the doc if the way I was feeling and the problems I was having were just the effects of the damage already done, and she said yes, then asked what that was called, to which I responded Progressive. Even still, the disease doesn't kill except in the most extreme situations

As for how quickly it progresses, it depends on a lot of variables. The best way to slow the progression of RRMS is to take or inject the Disease Modifying Drugs that are available, and do so religiously. There are no DMDs for any other type of MS, just drugs designed to work on the symptoms.

Mine is as you described, Susan. Symptoms took a downhill road for over 6 months and did not go into remission. When I asked my doctor, he agreed that my MS had moved on to the next stage. Progressive.