Multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition that affects the nervous system. This includes the spinal cord, optic nerves, and the brain. The condition’s symptoms may range from vision loss to muscle weakness and can differ from one person to another. Some people may experience mild symptoms, and in severe cases, it may result in paralysis. However, in most cases, the symptoms worsen during flare-ups and improve during the remission period.
Early signs of multiple sclerosis (MS)
Patients with multiple sclerosis may notice that no pattern of MS applies to everyone. Different symptoms are experienced at different times. However, the early signs of multiple sclerosis may be the same in both men and women. Hence, here are some early signs of the condition to look out for.
Inflammation of the optic nerve
One of the most common signs of MS, a person with optic neuritis may experience blurred vision, headache, and eye pain. Mainly, it occurs on one side and may lead to partial or total vision loss.
Cognitive changes
People with MS may experience a few cognitive changes, such as slowed processing. This might lead to difficulty finding words, short-term memory loss, and problems multitasking. Furthermore, one may also notice that they might have to read words a few times to understand them.
Changes in bladder habits
Another common symptom that’s an early sign of MS includes changes in bladder habits. This can either increase the frequency of urination, or one may also experience hesitancy where they may feel like going to the restroom, but the bladder does not empty.
Fatigue
An extremely common early sign of MS, fatigue can also result from other medical conditions. Hence patients are advised to seek the advice of a healthcare expert at the earliest. This usually happens during the afternoon and can be accompanied by weak muscles, sleepiness, and slowed thinking.
Dizziness
MS patients may also have bouts of dizziness. This can happen due to the condition’s impact on the patient’s equilibrium and ability to balance. Moreover, other symptoms, such as vision loss and sensory issues triggered by multiple sclerosis, can throw one off the kilter.
Multiple sclerosis can begin due to a mix of factors such as lifestyle and environment. Hence patients noticing any early signs of the condition are advised to seek medical attention for a treatment plan.
