Multiple sclerosis signs and symptoms

Multiple sclerosis signs and symptoms‏‎

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. The signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary widely and depend on the amount of nerve damage and which nerves are affected.

Signs and Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:

• Fatigue: This is one of the most common symptoms of MS, affecting about 80% of people. It can significantly interfere with a person's ability to function at home and work.

• Numbness and tingling: Numbness and tingling are often the first symptoms that bring people with MS to the doctor.

• Walking difficulties: MS can cause the muscles to weaken, affect balance, lead to spasticity (stiffness and involuntary muscle spasms), and produce fatigue, leading to difficulty walking.

• Muscle weakness and spasticity: These symptoms result from damage to the nerve fibers that control muscle movement.

• Pain and itching: Some people with MS experience chronic pain. Itching is another common symptom.

• Bladder problems and bowel problems: These can include frequent urination, strong urges to urinate, or inability to hold in urine.

• Cognitive changes: These can include problems with memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.

• Emotional changes and depression: These can be a reaction to the stresses of living with MS, or they can result from MS lesions in the brain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis is typically based on the presenting signs and symptoms, in conjunction with supporting medical imaging and laboratory testing. It can be difficult to confirm, especially early on, since the signs and symptoms may be similar to those of other medical conditions.

Treatment

While there is no cure for multiple sclerosis, treatments can help speed recovery from attacks, modify the course of the disease and manage symptoms.

See also

• Multiple sclerosis
• Neurology
• Autoimmune disease