Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an illness of the central nervous system. The immune system starts to fight the protective coating, called myelin, around nerve fibers. As a result, significant inflammation, lesions, and scar tissue are developed. This makes it difficult for the brain to send signals to other parts of the body. Learning more about the disease is important to better understand early detection.
Here are six early warning signs of MS:
1. Cognitive impairment
Changes in one’s cognitive abilities are an early warning sign of MS. Those showing signs of significant change in memory may be affected. Those who are showing signs of a rapid change in their ability to stay focused are displaying signs of a shortened attention span. A shortened attention span can also be a warning sign of MS. Additionally, those experiencing difficulties with language or staying organized also fall into this category. Often depression and emotional changes are common for those suffering from a relapsing MS treatment.
2. Vision problems
Vision problems can result from MS. The inflammation that results from the immune system can lead to optic nerve disruption. Most often, it can be identified from patients noticing an increase in double vision, blurred vision, or loss of vision completely. Changes in vision develop slowly over time. Most people are not able to notice changes in vision easily because of the slow degradation in vision.
3. Tingling and numbness
Those suffering from MS may often feel a sensation of tingling or numbness. When nerves inside the brain and spinal cord are sending different messages to parts of the body they cancel each other out. Due to the conflicting messaging, no signals end up being sent, which results in the sensation of numbness. Sensations of tingling and numbness are the most common early warning sign of MS.
4. Pains and spasms
Pain throughout the body and uncontrollable muscle spasms are typical with MS. Chronic pain is a symptom of nearly half of all those with MS. Another symptom is muscle stiffness. Muscle stiffness occurs when your muscles start to feel tight. This makes it difficult to move them precisely. Often, stiffness in joints and being unable to control movement can also occur. Uncontrolled jerking movements of parts of the body can usually result in a significant amount of pain. The most common body part affected is the legs.
5. Difficulty walking
Noticing an increasing problem with one’s ability to walk can be an early warning sign of MS. The problem stems from the decrease in coordination along with balance that makes walking much more difficult. Those that suffer can experience dizziness with the loss of coordination. Usually, when they stand up they can get a rush of lightheaded sensations and can feel as if the room is spinning. Another name for this symptom is vertigo.
6. Bladder and bowel dysfunction
Many people with MS often experience changes to the bladder and bowels. Those affected may experience the pronounced urge to urinate frequently. Usually, they develop the inability to hold their bowels. Constipation can also be an early symptom of MS. Other bowel dysfunction, such as diarrhea, may indicate MS as well. Those with MS find that urinary symptoms can be manageable with proper care.