Overview
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is diagnosed in those between the ages of 20 and 40. However, it can be diagnosed at any age. The onset of symptoms in individuals over the age of 50 is known as "secondary progressive multiple sclerosis" (SPMS).
Studies have found that:
- About 2.5% of people over the age of 65 have MS.
- Women are more likely than men to develop MS, and this risk increases with age.
- Children and teenagers are diagnosed with MS in up to 10% of cases.
- The incidence of MS in people over the age of 60 is about half that of younger adults.
Note: The symptoms and course of MS can vary greatly from person to person. And some individuals may experience a more gradual progression of the disease.
If MS is more common in younger adults, what does it mean if you get MS after age 65? Please continue reading to know more about this condition.
Is it unusual to get multiple sclerosis or MS after age 65?
It is not unusual to get a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) at age 65 or older. As mentioned earlier, MS is usually diagnosed in people aged between 20 and 40, but it can occur at any age.
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), approximately 10% of people with MS are diagnosed with the condition after the age of 50. If you notice symptoms of MS, please consult a neurologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. An accurate and timely diagnosis can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Are you wondering if the aging process will affect the severity and progression of multiple sclerosis after 65? Let’s find out.
Does MS progress after age 65?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive disease of the central nervous system, which means that it can continue to progress over time. However, the rate of progression can vary greatly between individuals, and some people may experience little or no progression after age 65.
Factors that play a role in determining the rate of progression include:
Please note that everyone's experience with MS is unique. It is always best to consult with your doctor for specific information about your own condition.
According to Dr. Sony from Nature's Rise stated that
Older adults with MS tend to experience different clinical outcomes than younger individuals with the condition. Generally speaking, elderly MS patients exhibit fewer relapses compared to younger patients; however, they face a higher risk of developing a more severe disability due to the progressive nature of the disease. It progresses at a more rapid rate while also being less likely to respond well to treatments, such as corticosteroids or disease-modifying therapies (DMT).
These variations may be due to the changes in neuropathology and metabolic dysregulation associated with aging processes. Age-related comorbidities that are particularly related to mobility issues and cognitive impairment can further exacerbate symptoms experienced by elderly MS patients.
Read on to learn about some side effects of MS after age 65.
Side Effects of MS after age 65
According to the NMSS, older MS patients are more likely than counterparts without MS to experience the following problems:
Your ability to recover from Multiple Sclerosis relapses is also impacted by age.
Let us now discuss the common signs and symptoms of MS after age 65.
Symptoms and course of MS after age 65
The symptoms of multiple sclerosis after 65 can vary greatly between individuals and can depend on a number of factors, including:
- the type of MS they have
- how severe it is
- their overall health
However, some common side effects that people with MS may experience as they age include:
| Symptom | Description |
| Mobility issues | MS can cause problems with balance, coordination, and muscle weakness, which can make it difficult to walk or perform other activities of daily living. |
Fatigue
| MS can cause extreme tiredness, which can be made worse by the physical and emotional demands of aging. |
Numbness and tingling
| MS can cause a loss of sensation or a feeling of "pins and needles" in the limbs, which can make it difficult to perform fine motor tasks. |
| Depression | MS can cause emotional and psychological stress, which can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and isolation. |
Cognitive impairment
| MS can affect the brain's ability to process information and make decisions, which can become increasingly challenging as people age. |
Here are some statistics on the common characteristic of MS - Cognitive impairment (CI).
With an incidence of 40% - 65%, cognitive impairment (CI) remains widespread in people with MS.
- In a 10-year longitudinal assessment of cognitive performance in 50 people with MS, the occurrence of CI climbed from 26% - 49% throughout the first 4 years.
- By the end of the research, 56% of patients exhibited mild-to-moderate CI, confirming the idea that CI prevalence and concomitant MS-related progression rise with MS duration.
Everyone's experience with MS is unique, and it's always best to consult with your specialist for specific information about your condition.
Now that we know the symptoms of MS, let’s find out how the condition is diagnosed and the treatment options.
How is Multiple Sclerosis diagnosed?
The diagnostic process typically involves a combination of several tests, including:
| Test | Description |
Neurological examination
| A doctor will perform a thorough examination of your nervous system, testing your vision, reflexes, coordination, and other functions. |
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
| This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain and spinal cord. MS lesions, also known as plaques, can be seen on an MRI scan, however, the presence of plaques does not necessarily mean the person has MS. |
Evoked potentials
| This test measures the electrical activity of the brain in response to certain stimuli, such as flashing lights or sounds. It can help to identify damage to the nerve pathways that occur in MS. |
Blood tests
| Blood tests can help to rule out other conditions that can mimic MS, such as lupus or Lyme disease. |
Lumbar puncture
| Also known as a spinal tap, this test involves removing a small sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the spine. The CSF can be analyzed for the presence of certain antibodies that are often found in people with MS. |
It's important to note that there is no single test that can definitively diagnose MS. The diagnosis is often based on a combination of these tests, along with the patient's medical history and symptoms. You can visit the best neurology hospitals in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Delhi, and Chennai for the diagnosis and test of multiple sclerosis.
According to Krista Elkins, a Registered Nurse (RN) and Paramedic (NRP) from health canal stated that-
MS is an auto-immune disorder affecting people’s central nervous system (CNS). As this is usually a genetic condition, onset is typically relatively early in life, and it is not well understood why people develop MS later in life. Diagnosis of MS in older adults is not as well understood, and the signs and symptoms may be mistaken for normal signs of aging. MS in older adults is very similar to typical aging regarding balance issues or cognitive decline, and it is often misdiagnosed as stroke, dementia, or Parkinson’s disease. Research has suggested that the older a person is when they receive a diagnosis of MS, the more rapidly their symptoms, such as loss of motor function, progress.
Your doctor will consider all the information from your symptoms and these tests, in order to make a diagnosis and plan the treatment cycle.
What is the treatment for MS after age 65?
Treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) after age 65 is generally similar to treatment for younger individuals with the disease. Various treatment options include:
| Treatment | Description |
| Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) | These medications are designed to slow the progression of MS and reduce the number of relapses. Some common DMTs include interferon beta, glatiramer acetate, and natalizumab. |
| Steroids | These medications can help to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery during a relapse. |
| Symptomatic treatment | Medications such as antidepressants, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants can be used to manage specific symptoms of MS, such as fatigue, spasticity, and pain. |
| Regenerative medicine | Regenerative treatment like stem cell therapy gives new hope for patients with MS. However, it is not yet widely approved by the FDA and at this age, whether it is safe or not, you need to discuss it with healthcare providers. |
| Rehabilitation | Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation can help to maintain mobility, reduce fatigue, and improve overall function. |
| Supportive care | People with MS may also benefit from counseling, support groups, and other forms of psychological support to help them cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of the disease. |
Please ensure that you consult your doctor for specific information about your condition. Especially after age 65, age can affect how the body responds to treatment. Additionally, some medications may be less effective or have more side effects.
Read on to learn some coping strategies for managing the symptoms of MS.
Keeping active and positive with multiple sclerosis after 65
Managing MS as an older adult can be challenging, but there are ways to manage the disease and maintain a good quality of life.
Here are some tips for coping with MS as an older adult:
- It is important to work with a healthcare team that includes a neurologist experienced in treating MS, as well as other specialists such as:
· Physical therapists
· Occupational therapists
· Mental health professionals
- Regular exercise and physical therapy can help maintain strength, balance, and mobility.
- Occupational therapy can also help with daily activities such as dressing and grooming.
- Medications can help slow the progression of the disease and reduce symptoms such as fatigue, spasticity, and pain.
- It is also important to pay attention to overall health and wellness, including maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.
- Support groups can also be a valuable resource for older adults living with MS, as they provide a forum for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
Note: People with MS as older adults may have different needs and challenges compared to younger adults. It may be beneficial to work with a specialist who is experienced in treating older adults with MS.
If you or a loved one is living with MS, please do not despair!
MS is considered a lifelong condition, but the course of the disease can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may experience a more gradual progression of the disease, while others may experience more rapid progression and severe symptoms. With proper management, many people with MS are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.
If you need more information, don’t worry. We are here to help you!
References:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis/symptoms/multiple-sclerosis-age-progression/
