Multiple sclerosis(MS) is a disease that affects the central nervous system and can lead to a number of different symptoms. Since MS shares many of the same signs as other neurological diseases, it can sometimes be difficult to tell if those are early warning signs for MS. The symptoms of MS vary from person to person, but the most common early signs of MS include:
Weakness
Weakness is one of the most common early signs of MS, and it can present itself in several different ways. For example, the inability to reach for the nearest object may be significant if you have trouble with daily tasks like bathing and dressing. Weakness can also appear in instability and balance issues, as your muscles gradually lose elasticity. The weakness on one side of body can indicate problems with the other equally affected muscles.
Numbness
Numbness can be one of the early signs of MS. It is generally more noticeable in the limbs and facial area, but it appears on other body parts. Numbness is a very problematic symptom, as it makes things like walking, typing, and eating feel different than they usually do. However, it is essential to note that numbness resulting from MS can sometimes be permanent.
Tingling
This early sign of MS is similar to numbness, but it manifests as a tingling sensation instead of a loss of feeling. The tingling can cause various symptoms, such as painful or burning sensations, pins and needles, and the feeling like bugs are crawling under the skin.
Muscle spasticity
The muscle spasms can make it difficult to move your limbs normally. Some people with multiple sclerosis experience involuntary jerking of their limbs, known as myoclonus. The muscular contractions can occur at random times throughout the day or night, so it is important to note when you have episodes if you are worried about MS symptoms.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom that you may experience during the early stages of MS. However, it is important to be aware that some MS people will experience less fatigue, and some will have more severe symptoms. Fatigue can be so severe that you may have trouble keeping your eyes open or even fall asleep while you are in the middle of watching television, so it is best to speak with your doctor if you are concerned about fatigue.
Night blindness
Night blindness can occur during the early stages of MS, making it harder to see when your eyes are closed or, even worse, when your eyelids aren’t entirely closed. The inability to see in dark situations can make it difficult to complete your daily tasks and causes a lot of frustration. Night blindness can also lead to other symptoms like blurred vision, difficulty focusing, and even trouble with driving at night.
Maze walking
This is a common early sign of multiple sclerosis, marked by the inability to walk straight. You may have trouble staying in one straight line or even walk in circles, which can sometimes cause you to lose your balance. However, it is important to note that this symptom isn’t exclusive to MS. People who have brain damage may also experience this early sign of MS.
Bladder problems
A loss of bladder control is another common early sign of MS. It can be challenging to manage during the early stages because you may not recognize that you need to urinate. You may feel a slight need to urinate, but there won’t be any warning signs that an accident is imminent, so it is essential to be mindful of changes in bladder control.
For example, bladder spasms can occur in MS when the bladder can empty but not empty. This means that urine will build up in your bladder until you urinate, but this problem resolves itself after a while.
It is important to note that none of these symptoms are unique to multiple sclerosis, and they can sometimes indicate other neurological disorders. To get a proper diagnosis, you will need to see your doctor. While you wait for your results, it can be helpful to note the early signs of MS so that you can start to take precautions.
