Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disorder of the central nervous system which can lead to permanent disabling effects. This condition is caused by the body’s own immune system attacking myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers. When this myelin is stripped from the nerves this causes damage and inhibits the efficient communication to the brain. As a result, sufferers experience control issues over their limbs and damage to other organs. Treatments for MS often include doctor-prescribed relapsing-remitting medications in a variety of injectable, oral and infusion forms, such as Ocrevus, Enspryng, Mayzent, Gilenya, and Zeposia.
There are a number of early warning symptoms to look out for:
1. Visions problems
Generally the first of the symptoms of MS to exhibit is problems with vision. The vast majority of diagnosed MS sufferers will have first noticed changes in their vision. Fortunately, vision issues related to MS are usually the easiest symptom to remedy. The most common complication is called Optic Neuritis, which is essentially an inflammation of the optic nerve. Aching pain with eye movement is one of the first symptoms followed by blurred vision, dimmed vision and possibly loss of color vision. Although vision can be lost permanently it is often the case that vision will return at least somewhat over time.
2. Tingling and numbness
A very common early sign of MS is tingling or numbness such as you might feel if a foot or hand has gone to sleep. In this situation, however, it lasts longer and can occur in parts of the body other than the extremities. Known as paresthesias, these symptoms cause discomfort but not pain. They can include itching, prickling, burning, cold spots, vibrating and throbbing sensations. These symptoms can occur in various places on the body and the effects can limit mobility in arms and legs.
3. Pains and spasms
Pain is not always a symptom of MS in the early stages but in at least half of sufferers it is a symptom. Known as Dysesthesis, it is a direct result of the nerve damage caused by the condition. The sensations are the same as those of tingling and numbness, however, they are more severe and painful. Painful back spasms can also be a symptom, this is known as spasticity and can range from tight back muscles to severe pain. This pain then often causes spasms in the legs as well.
4. Weakness and fatigue
Muscle weakness is a major symptom of MS this is due to the limiting of nervous response caused by the ongoing nerve damage. Fatigue is also a major symptom although it is less clear what actually causes this. Sufferers will often find themselves exhausted even from minimal activity. The belief is that simple motor functions for MS sufferers actually take more of the brain to achieve than non-sufferers. As a result, people with MS are also mentally tired as well.
5. Balance problems, dizziness and cognitive issues
Coordination becomes problematic as nerves become more damaged and control of the limbs becomes more difficult. Lack of sensation and limb weakness can lead to balance issues as well as feelings of dizziness. Mental fatigue can also lead to issues with cognitive abilities as well leaving sufferers confused.
6. Bladder problems
The muscles of the bladder which control emptying are also controlled by nerve impulses. These nerves too can be damaged by MS which can mean that issues controlling the bladder may become a symptom.
