Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a degenerate condition that tends to get worse over time. Fortunately, if you recognize the multiple sclerosis signs, then it will be easier for you to get the treatment that you need and hopefully, slow it’s progress and severity. Treatment can help reduce MS symptoms, manage the condition, and help patients live a healthy life. Look out for these early signs of MS:
1. Balance issues
Your balance is often one of the first things that is impacted by MS. It may be harder for you to walk. You may also be more prone to falling. MS can also cause you to experience dizziness, which can make it even harder for you to maintain your balance.
2. Bladder problems
It is estimated that 80 percent of people who suffer from MS have bladder issues. Patients may find that they have to urinate more often. Or that it’s a lot harder for you to hold urine. The good news is that bladder issues can be managed with the proper treatment. There are medications that you can take to control your bladder. Pelvic exercises can also help.
3. Vision problems
Vision problems can be an early sign of MS. They may also be a sign of relapsing multiple sclerosis. This condition can cause inflammation in your optic nerve. That is why you may have problems with your vision. You may notice double vision and blurred vision. You may also notice that you experience gradual vision loss.
4. Cognitive problems
It is estimated that half of people who suffer from MS have some type of cognitive issue. For example, you may struggle to remember things. You may also notice that your attention span is a lot shorter. Additionally, you may have problems keeping things organized.
5. Numbness, tingling, and spasms
The nerves in the brain and spinal cord are negatively impacted by multiple sclerosis. The nerves help transmit messages. That is why if your nerves are negatively impacted, then your body and brain can get conflicting messages. Numbness can occur as a result of this. You may feel this numbness or tingling in your fingers, legs, arms and face. A spasm is an uncontrolled movement. It is common for MS sufferers to suffer from frequent spasms. Your muscles may also become stiff after a spasm. Your legs are the part of the body that is most likely to suffer spasms. However, you can develop spasms in other parts of your body.
MS patients may also suffer other side effects of their chronic condition. For example, depression is a mental condition that is common in people who suffer from MS and other pain related conditions. The stress of dealing with a debilitating condition can cause one to get depressed. If you suffer from major depression, then you may find yourself having crying spells. Furthermore, this depression can put a strain on the relationships that people have with their family members.
