Skip to main content Skip to navigation

First thoughts...

You're told you have MS, What thoughts go through your head?

When you are first diagnosed with MS, you may experience a variety of emotions, ranging from shock and disbelief to anger and fear, even - for some people - relief that at last they have a diagnosis. You will probably need answers to a number of important questions, such as:

"How will my MS develop?"

This is one of the most commonly asked questions, but unfortunately due to the varied and unpredictable nature of MS it is impossible to answer with any certainty.

More information on how MS may develop

"Will I be severely disabled?"

For the vast majority of people with MS, the answer to this question will be no. Rapid progression is rare and most people with MS will never need to use a wheelchair on a regular basis.

"Am I going to lose my independence?"

Again for most people the answer is no. Most people with MS continue to enjoy an active life many years after diagnosis.

"Will I die early?"

Most people with MS will live just as long as anybody else.

More information on life expectancy

Although it is natural to experience a sense of loss for the life you had planned, MS need not be the devastating diagnosis that many people fear, particularly if you have access to good information and to the right treatments and support from health and social care professionals.