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4 THE EFFECTS OF MS MS affects each person differently but there are certain typical courses it may follow. Some may have periods of relapse followed by full or partial remission called relapsing-remitting or RRMS where others may have rapid progression of disability from onset called primary progressive or PPMS. Further complicating matters those diagnosed with RRMS may later see their disease course transition experiencing fewer relapses but increasing progression of disability called secondary progressive or SPMS. QUICK FACTS COMMON FIRST SIGNS Because MS can affect any part of the body there are no specific symptoms associated with onset. However some symptoms are more common than others as the first signs of MS. These are Blurred suddenly decreased or double vision Numbness Tingling Loss of balance or coordination Weakness in an arm or leg Heat sensitivity which may trigger the above If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms it is important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Whatever course of MS a person may be diagnosed with whatever symptoms of the disease they face the effects of MS on their life may be far-reaching. An MS diagnosis also has emotional financial and social ramifications. It may affect a persons ability to pursue a career interfere with education put strain on relationships and even damage a persons self-esteem as a result of stigma. Support is vital for those with MS to maintain the best possible quality of life. What is my risk for MS The risk among the general population for MS is low estimated at 0.1 percent. If you have a parent or sibling who has been diagnosed with MS your risk is elevated to 2.5 percent. A person who has an identical twin diagnosed with MS has a 25 percent risk of developing it. Many with MS worry about the elevated risk for their children. MSF Senior Medical Advisor Ben Thrower M.D. said While your child may have a 2.5 percent risk of developing MS remember that means there is a 97.5 percent chance they will not.