What is the most common type of MS?

Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS) is indeed the most common type of MS, accounting for approximately 85% of all diagnosed cases. In this form of multiple sclerosis, patients experience episodes of neurological symptoms (relapses) followed by periods of partial or complete recovery (remissions). During the relapses, inflammation and demyelination occur, leading to varying degrees of functional impairment. The remissions can last for months or even years, during which patients may experience no new symptoms and periods of stability.

RRMS is characterized by its unpredictable nature and the capacity for remission, making it distinct from other types of MS. Over time, some individuals with RRMS may transition to secondary-progressive MS, where they may experience a gradual decline in function without periods of remission, but this transition does not change the fact that RRMS is the predominant initial diagnosis in multiple sclerosis cases. Understanding this type is essential for treatment planning, as early intervention can help manage symptoms and potentially alter the course of the disease.