There are many symptoms associated with MS. Having one or more does not mean that you have MS, but having one or more does mean you should see your doctor.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of MS vary widely, depending on the location of affected nerve fibers. They may include:
- Numbness or weakness in one or more limbs, which typically occurs on one side of the body at a time or the bottom half of the body
- Partial or complete loss of vision, usually in one eye at a time, often with pain during eye movement
- Double vision or blurring of vision
- Tingling or pain in numb areas of the body
- Electric-shock sensations that occur with certain head movements
- Tremor, lack of coordination or unsteady gait
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
In some cases, people with MS may also develop muscle stiffness or spasticity, slurred speech, paralysis, or problems with bladder, bowel or sexual function. Mental changes such as forgetfulness or difficulties with concentration also can occur.
Another website, All About Multiple Sclerosis, contains information in great detail about the symptoms of MS, as well as a number of other topics. It is written by lay people, not doctors, in plain language.
Regarding symptom, the compiler of this list reminds us that most people with MS won't get most of these symptoms and the ones that seem the most terrifying usually only manifest themselves in the later stages of the disease.
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