Its clinical course is characterized by exacerbations that can last days to weeks, at intervals of months to years, with the time in between being symptom-free. Although the signs and symptoms of this form of MS are intermittent, they may lead to significant disability.

Is multiple sclerosis classed as a disability?

MS is considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Someone with MS can qualify for disability benefit if it is severe enough to prevent them from being able to work full time.To qualify and be approved for disability benefits with MS, you will need to meet the SSA's Blue Book listing 11.09.

What percentage of MS patients become disabled?

The truth is that 15 years after the onset of MS, only about 20% of patients are bedridden or institutionalized. Another 20% may require a wheelchair, or use crutches, or a cane to ambulate, but fully 60% will be ambulatory without assistance and some will have little deficit at all.