Progressive relapsing multiple sclerosis

Progressive relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) is a rare form of MS that causes steady damage to nerves when symptoms first appear and continues to cause damage to the central nervous system even when there are no symptoms. Relapses (disease flare-ups) occur, followed by full or partial recovery, but nerve damage continues and symptoms become increasingly disabling.

Symptoms of MS include:

• Weakness, leg dragging, and stiffness.
• Blurred, foggy, or hazy vision.
• Tingling, a pins-and-needles sensation, and numbness.

There is no cure for MS, but medicines can reduce the number, frequency, and severity of relapses and may slow the progression of the disease.

Credits

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Last Revised	February 18, 2010