Dang, after 38 years, fuuuuudge!
June 10
These are really important concerns worth discussing with your neurologist. Respiratory (pulmonary) issues do have a known connection to MS — breathing muscles can weaken as MS progresses, and people with MS can have a higher risk of chronic respiratory conditions.
Cardiac concerns are less directly linked to MS itself, so Show Full Answer
These are really important concerns worth discussing with your neurologist. Respiratory (pulmonary) issues do have a known connection to MS — breathing muscles can weaken as MS progresses, and people with MS can have a higher risk of chronic respiratory conditions.
Cardiac concerns are less directly linked to MS itself, so those could have multiple contributing factors including genetics or medication effects. Regarding SPMS — it's not typically identified by new symptoms like cardiac or pulmonary issues. Instead, neurologists look for these patterns over time:
- Fewer relapses but steadily worsening symptoms
- Reduced recovery after flare-ups
- Gradual decline in mobility, cognition, or daily function
- Changes visible on MRI scans
The average age of transition to SPMS is around 40, and about 50% of people with RRMS transition within 10 years. The best next step is to bring up both the cardiac and pulmonary symptoms with your neurologist and possibly a cardiologist and pulmonologist. They can help untangle whether it's MS-related, Ocrevus-related, or genetic. Don't try to navigate this alone — these symptoms deserve proper investigation! 💙
June 10
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