What are the symptoms?

There is no typical case of MS. Most people with MS will experience more than one symptom, and though there are symptoms common to many, no one person would have all of them. The initial symptoms of MS are most often: difficulty in walking, sensations of numbness or "pins and needles" pain and loss of vision due to optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve Less common initial symptoms may include: tremor, lack of coordination, slurred speech, sudden onset of paralysis, similar to a stroke decline in cognitive function - the ability to think, reason and remember The symptoms come and go and many can be attributed to any number of other medical conditions. MS is not an easy diagnosis.

Primary Symptoms

Primary symptoms are a direct result of de-myelination - the destruction of myelin. Weakness, pain, numbness, tremors, loss of vision, paralysis, loss of balance, bladder and bowel dysfunction and spasms are all primary symptoms of MS. Many of these symptoms can be managed effectively with medication and rehabilitation.

Secondary Symptoms

Secondary symptoms are complications that arise as a result of the primary symptoms. Bladder dysfunction can cause repeated urinary tract infection. Inactivity can result in disuse weakness (not related to de-myelination). Altered muscle tone can produce spasticity or muscle stiffness, poor posture and trunk control, muscle imbalance, decreased bone density, the increasing risk of fracture, shallow and inefficient breathing. Also, paralysis can lead to bedsores. Although secondary symptoms can be treated, the goal is preventative by treating the primary symptoms.

Tertiary Symptoms

Tertiary symptoms are the social, vocational and psychological complications that are often brought on by the primary and secondary symptoms. A person who becomes unable to walk or drive may lose his or her livelihood. Dealing with a chronic illness may disrupt personal relationships. Depression is frequently seen among people with MS. Professional assistance from psychologists, physical and occupational therapists, social workers and public health agencies can help manage many tertiary symptoms. Multiple Sclerosis is a variable condition and the symptoms depend on which areas of the central nervous system are affected. There is no set pattern to MS, and everyone with MS has a different set of symptoms, which vary from time to time and can change in severity and duration, even in the same person.

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