Progression in MS is for anyone with MS who is experiencing progression or who wants to learn more about progression in MS. It discusses positive and practical approaches to coming to terms with living with progression, its management and the lifestyle changes that can help you live well and reduce the risk of complications.

This book looks at how the traditional classification of MS is being challenged due to an increased understanding of the underlying biology, the new terms that are emerging when we talk about progression and how the ageing process can impact on MS.

It also covers the support available from a range of health professionals and rounds up the research strategies that will hopefully lead to better treatment options for progression in the future.

It contains information on these key topics:

Progression and MS
- Historical descriptions of MS
- How MS is defined is changing and emerging terminology
- Lesion types and biomarker of progression
Coming to terms with a progressive MS diagnosis
- Initial feelings and stages of grief
- Adjusting to a new diagnosis
- Worries about future disability and coping with uncertainty
Variability in progression
- Temporary worsening of symptoms vs progression
- Factors that can affect the rate of progression
Treating and managing progression
- Disease modifying drugs for progressive MS
- Symptom management approaches
- Health professionals involved in managing symptoms and navigating NHS services
Living well with progression
- Comprehensive assessment and self-management
- Lifestyle and wellbeing
- Preventing complications and health screening
Adapting to change in your family, social and work life
- Aids and equipment
- Maintaining independence at home, in your social life and at work
- Financial support
Ageing with MS
- Why the disease course changes as you age
- Frailty
- Healthy ageing
Care and support in the future
- Increasing care needs
- Respite, palliative and more specialised care
Research on progression in MS
- Targeting MS progression
- Clinical trial design in progressive MS
- Surrogate markers and outcome measures