Symptoms

 

First symptoms

A common visual symptom of MS is optic neuritis — inflammation of the optic (vision) nerve. Optic neuritis usually occurs in one eye and may cause aching pain with eye movement, blurred vision, dim vision, or loss of color vision. of MS

• Blurred or double vision
• Red-green color distortion
• Pain and loss of vision because of swelling of the optic nerve (optic neuritis)
• Trouble walking and difficulty with balance
• An abnormal feeling, such as numbness, prickling, or pins and needles (paresthesia)

Other symptoms of multiple sclerosis

• Muscle weakness in the arms and legs
• Trouble with coordination. You may have problems walking or standing. You may also be partly or completely paralyzed.
• Spasticity. This is the involuntary increased tone of muscles leading to stiffness and spasms.
• Fatigue. This may be brought on by physical activity. But it may ease with rest. You may have constant tiredness that doesn't go away.
• Loss of feeling
• Speech problems
• Tremor
• Dizziness
• Hearing loss
• Bowel and bladder problems
• Depression
• Changes in sexual function

About 50% of all people with MS have thinking (cognitive) problems linked to the disease. The effects of these problems may be mild. Your healthcare provider may only find them after much testing. The problems may be with:

• Focusing (concentration)
• Attention
• Memory
• Poor judgment

Symptoms of MS are grouped as primary, secondary, or tertiary as described below:

Primary symptoms. These symptoms are a direct result of the destruction of myelin: Weakness Numbness Shaking (tremors) Loss of vision Pain Paralysis Loss of balance Bladder and bowel problems

Secondary symptoms. These are complications that may occur as a result of the primary symptoms, for example: Paralysis can lead to bedsores. Bladder problems may cause repeated urinary tract infections. Inactivity can result in weakness, poor posture, muscle imbalances, decreased bone density, and breathing problems. Becoming less mobile because of weakness and trouble swallowing can lead to a greater risk of pneumonia.

Tertiary symptoms. These are social, job-related, and psychological problems: A person who becomes unable to walk or drive may lose his or her livelihood. Strain of dealing with a chronic illness may disrupt personal relationships. Depression is often seen among people with MS.

The symptoms of MS may look like other health problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/m/multiple-sclerosis-ms.html