These may include pain, extreme fatigue, and mental changes such as mood swings, forgetfulness, and confusion. Symptoms may appear in any combination, may come and go, and may vary from very mild to very severe. MS is an unpredictable disease. At present there is no way to predict when or even if attacks of the disease will occur. Symptoms not only vary greatly from person to person, but may also vary from time to time in the same person.
Some people have few attacks, and little if any disability accumulates over time.
This means they have exacerbations, which take place unpredictably, followed by periods of partial or total remission, which may last months or even years. Because MS affects individuals so differently, it is difficult to make generalizations about disability. Statistics suggest that two out of three people with MS remain able to walk over their lifetimes, but many of them will need a cane or other assistive device. Some choose to use a scooter or wheelchair to conserve energy. Multiple sclerosis is not fatal.