Multiple Sclerosis Life Expectancy: Facts & Myths From An MS Expert

Let’s discuss a more sensitive topic with those in the MS community: life expectancy.

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I know talking about life expectancy when you have Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can feel heavy. But I’m here to put your mind at ease — there’s no need to panic! With the right care and attention, living a long, healthy life with MS is absolutely within reach. A lot of people with MS live fulfilling lives for decades.

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So without any further introduction, let’s break down the facts and myths of MS life expectancy, plus what to prioritize to lead a long and fulfilling life.

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MS Symptoms Do Not Necessarily Shorten Life Expectancy

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First things first — if you’re newly diagnosed with MS, you might be wondering, “Is this going to shorten my life?” It’s totally normal to think that, but here’s the good news: MS symptoms themselves don’t necessarily mean a shorter life expectancy. 

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The symptoms of MS — ranging from mobility issues to cognitive changes — may seem overwhelming, but they do not necessarily shorten life expectancy. Sure, some complications can arise if symptoms aren’t managed early, but that’s why it’s so important to stay on top of them and work closely with your healthcare team. They’re here to help you navigate this!

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Myths vs. Realities: MS And Life Expectancy

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As a physical therapist and MS specialist, I’ve had several of my clients ask about really heavy subjects relating to the life expectancy of MS. While this is a delicate subject, I want to help offer some clarity over the common myths surrounding this topic. 

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Here are the few common myths I hear (and am asked) along with the real truth that comes with them:

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Myth: MS is a Terminal Illness

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Reality: Nope! MS is not a terminal illness. Most people with MS live close to the same life expectancy as anyone else. And with early treatment and some lifestyle adjustments, you can continue to enjoy life for many years to come. Sure, advanced MS might bring on some complications, but they don’t mean your life is cut drastically short.

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Myth: MS Guarantees a Shortened Life Expectancy

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Reality: This one’s not true either! Thanks to modern treatments and better healthcare overall, people experiencing MS continue to live long and happy lives. The average life expectancy for someone with MS might be shortened by just a few years — sometimes not even that much. The key is staying on top of your symptoms and checking in regularly with your doctor.

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Life Expectancy And MS: Factors Actually That Matter

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A long and happy life is more than possible with MS, there are just specific factors to consider. 

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Life expectancy is something that often comes up when talking about Multiple Sclerosis, especially for those dealing with the advanced stages of the disease. Now, while MS itself doesn’t directly shorten your life, there are a few things that can influence life expectancy. Let’s break down the main factors to be aware of and what you can do to stay healthy.

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Cardiovascular Health

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Heart health is super important — whether you have MS or not. In fact, heart disease and related conditions (like high blood pressure and diabetes) are some of the leading causes of death for people with advanced MS. But the good news is, these risks can be managed with some smart choices.

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Modifiable Risk Factors:

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• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): MS can make you more prone to high blood pressure due to less physical activity, stress, or weight gain. Keeping an eye on your blood pressure is crucial to avoid heart problems.
  
  
• Cholesterol and Lipid Levels: It’s another big one! Keeping cholesterol in check with a healthy diet and exercise can do wonders.
  
  
• Diabetes: If you have diabetes along with MS, you’re at higher risk for heart issues. Regular check-ups to monitor blood sugar levels can help keep things in balance.
  
  
• Obesity: Reduced mobility in MS often leads to weight gain, which strains the heart. A balanced diet and appropriate physical activity are crucial to maintaining a healthy weight.
  
  
• Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol use are big contributors to cardiovascular disease. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can drastically improve life expectancy for MS patients.

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Managing Cardiovascular Health in MS:

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• Exercise: This is one of the best ways to manage cardiovascular health! I’ve dedicated my career as a physical therapist to developing MS-specific workouts, so to see a wealth of information, check out my YouTube channel: Dr. Gretchen Hawley
  
  
• Medication: Many people with MS benefit from medications to control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Regular consultations with healthcare providers are important with medication to ensure it doesn’t interfere with other MS treatments.
  
  
• Diet: Another game changer! Eating heart-healthy foods—think fruits, veggies, lean proteins—can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues. Need help? A nutritionist can work with you to tailor a plan that fits your MS needs.

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Respiratory Issues

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As MS progresses, some people have trouble swallowing, which can lead to accidental food or liquid going down the wrong way and causing pneumonia (called aspiration pneumonia). It’s more common in advanced stages of MS, but there are ways to prevent it.

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Signs of Aspiration Risk:

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• Coughing, choking, or sputtering while eating or drinking
• Unexplained shortness of breath
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), which can be subtle in the early stages but becomes more apparent as MS progresses

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Preventing Aspiration Pneumonia:

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• Swallowing Evaluations: Regular assessments by speech-language pathologists are great for identifying swallowing difficulties early on. These specialists can conduct tests like a modified barium swallow study to determine the safest food and liquids for your specific needs.
  
  
• Dietary Adjustments: People with advanced MS benefit from modified diets, such as soft or pureed foods, or thickened liquids, which can reduce the risk of aspiration.
  
  
• Posture During Meals: Eating in an upright position and taking smaller bites is an easy way to help prevent food from entering the airways.
  
  
• Feeding Tubes: In rare and severe cases, when aspiration pneumonia becomes a recurrent threat, doctors may recommend feeding tubes to provide nutrition safely.

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Urinary Health

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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are really common in MS patients, especially those with bladder dysfunction, and can lead to severe complications like urosepsis if not treated correctly. Urosepsis is a serious infection that can spread to the bloodstream, becoming life-threatening if left untreated.

But do not worry! When you see the signs of urosepsis, there are ways to help.

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Signs of Urosepsis in MS:

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• Bladder Dysfunction: MS can impair bladder control, leading to issues such as incomplete emptying or incontinence. These conditions increase the risk of bacteria buildup, which can cause UTIs.
  
  
• Catheter Use: People with advanced MS often rely on catheters to manage bladder dysfunction, but this also raises the risk of infection if not properly maintained.

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Preventing Urosepsis:

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• Regular Monitoring: Frequent check-ups and urine tests can detect UTIs early, allowing for prompt treatment with antibiotics and you to feel comfortable quickly.
  
  
• Bladder Management Programs: Healthcare providers often create individualized bladder management plans to reduce infection risks. Talk to your daughter about medications to help with bladder control or intermittent catheterization under sterile conditions. Together, you can create a plan that works!
  
  
• Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract, lowering the chances of infection.

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While often a taboo subject, this is so common in men and women! To learn more about MS bladder and bowel control check out these posts: MS Bladder Control and Bowel Symptoms In MS.

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Skin Integrity

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For those with limited mobility, bedsores (or pressure ulcers) can develop. These can lead to infections if not caught early, so it’s important to regularly check your skin for any signs of trouble, especially if you spend a lot of time in one position.

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Common Areas for Bedsores:

• Lower back and butt (particularly for those who sit or lie down for long periods)
• Heels and the back of the legs
• Shoulder blades, elbows, and other areas where bones are close to the surface of the skin

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Preventing Bedsores:

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• Frequent Position Changes: Shifting positions every two hours is ideal for most who experience MS symptoms. This helps redistribute pressure and prevent sores from developing.
  
  
• Pressure-Relieving Devices: Special mattresses, cushions, and seating aids are designed to reduce pressure. For those using wheelchairs, professional seat mapping can ensure proper alignment and minimize pressure.
  
  
• Skin Inspections: Regular visual checks of the skin, especially in high-pressure areas, can detect early signs of sores. Redness, warmth, or breakdown of the skin surface should be addressed immediately.
  
  
• Wound Care: If pressure ulcers do develop, early and effective wound care is essential to prevent infection. Your doctor may recommend specific dressings, antibiotics, or even surgery in severe cases.

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How To Maximize Health And Live Well With MS

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Living a long, happy life with MS is absolutely possible! Here is what I recommend to every single client I work with to maximize a healthy and happy life:

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• Stay Active: Regular exercise can maintain strength and mobility, and boost cardiovascular health, all of which contribute to a longer life expectancy. Even light activities such as walking or stretching make a difference.
  
  
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Good nutrition supports the immune system and helps manage weight, reducing the risk of additional health conditions that can affect life span. Consider working with a nutritionist to create a plan tailored to your needs.
  
  
• Regular Medical Check-ups: Routine appointments allow your doctor to monitor your condition, adjust treatments as necessary, and manage any complications that could influence your life expectancy.
  
  
• Prioritize Mental Health: Stress and depression can take a toll on overall health. Addressing mental health through therapy, support groups, and open communication with loved ones can significantly contribute to a better quality of life and improved longevity.

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A Long, Happy Life Is More Than Possible With Multiple Sclerosis

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While MS is a lifelong condition, it does not have to define how long (or how well) you live. Focus on what you can control—your health, your mindset, and your approach to managing MS. These factors play a crucial role in not just how well you live but how long.

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If you’re unsure of where to turn when it comes to finding knowledge for how to manage your MS symptoms, my book – The MSing Link – is a perfect resource. With the help of fellow physical therapists, MS specialists, and MS researchers, I’ve curated tips, exercises, advice, and encouragement to help you navigate Multiple Sclerosis with confidence.

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Do you have any further questions on MS life expectancy? Please feel free to DM me on Instagram @doctor.gretchen.

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