It is hard for your doctor to predict what your future holds because MS varies so much between individuals and there is no typical rate of progression or disability. Some people with progressive MS may, at some point, experience a plateau, where their progression seems to level off. Others may advance more quickly and reach a higher level of disability. It is very unusual that people die from MS. In the small percentage who have a shortened life span, it is almost always due to complications associated with very advanced disease. Minimizing such complications will be beneficial for an individual’s health, quality of life, and ability to function.
The important thing to remember is that there are resources every step of the way to help inform and support you. This information and support will assist you in finding the best ways of managing your illness, both physically and emotionally.