Your Source for Multiple Sclerosis Information

 


Few of the symptoms of MS are unique to the disease and even if you have one or more of them it doesn't necessarily mean that you have multiple sclerosis. However, all of these symptoms deserve medical attention and you should see a doctor if you develop any of them. For every person, the disease develops differently, yet the early warning signs are quite similar.
Symptoms vary, because the location and severity of each attack can be different. Episodes can last for days, weeks, or months. These episodes alternate with periods of reduced or no symptoms (remissions). Fever, hot baths, sun exposure, and stress can trigger or worsen attacks. It is common for the disease to return (relapse). However, the disease may continue to get worse without periods of remission. Because nerves in any part of the brain or spinal cord may be damaged, patients with multiple sclerosis can have symptoms in many parts of the body.

People with MS can experience double vision, eye discomfort and uncontrollable eye movements. Generally, eye pain is present when the eyes are moved. Inflammation of the optic nerve (called optic neuritis) causes blurred vision, color confusion and even blindness in one eye. Fifty-five percent of MS patients will have an attack of optic neuritis. In 15% of people, optic neuritis is the symptom that results in an MS diagnosis.

Complete or partial remission from symptoms occurs early in about 70% of multiple sclerosis patients.

  • Muscle weakness with or without difficulties with coordination and balance may occur early.
  • Muscle spasms, fatigue, numbness, and prickling pain are common symptoms.
  • There may be a loss of sensation, speech impediment (typically a problem articulating words), tremors, or dizziness.
  • Fifty-percent of patients experience mental changes such as decreased concentration, attention deficits, some degree of memory loss, inability to perform sequential tasks, or impairment in judgment.
  • Other symptoms may include depression, manic depression, paranoia, or an uncontrollable urge to laugh and weep.

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