Primary progressive MS (PPMS) is a form of MS that affects around 10–15% of people with MS. Unlike other types, it involves a steady worsening of symptoms from the very start, with no relapses or periods of remission. Common symptoms of PPMS include:
- Trouble walking or standing
- Muscle weakness and spasms
- Balance and Show Full Answer
Primary progressive MS (PPMS) is a form of MS that affects around 10–15% of people with MS. Unlike other types, it involves a steady worsening of symptoms from the very start, with no relapses or periods of remission. Common symptoms of PPMS include:
- Trouble walking or standing
- Muscle weakness and spasms
- Balance and coordination issues
- Numbness or tingling
- Vision problems
- Pain (back, legs, headaches)
- Cognitive difficulties (memory, concentration)
- Mood changes, including depression
- Dizziness or shakiness PPMS tends to cause more lesions in the spinal cord than the brain, which is why walking difficulties are so common. Diagnosis requires at least one year of worsening symptoms plus evidence from MRI scans or spinal fluid testing. When it comes to treatment, options are more limited compared to other MS types. However, Ocrevus (ocrelizumab) is currently the only medication proven to slow disability progression in PPMS. Research into other treatments, including EBV-specific T-cell therapy, is ongoing. The good news is that PPMS progresses slowly in most cases — fewer than 25% of people reached significant disability milestones within five years of diagnosis. Working closely with a neurologist to monitor progression and adjust treatment is really important.
August 19
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