Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Early Signs and Symptoms

The earlier you receive in multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis, the greater chance your doctor has of developing a comprehensive treatment plan that keeps you ambulatory, physically functional, and comfortable for as long as possible. However, the only way to get an early diagnosis is to understand the early signs of multiple sclerosis. If you, a family member, or a loved one notices any of these symptoms, make an appointment with a physician as soon as possible.

Fatigue Without Direct Explanation

Everyone gets tired if they stayed up too late or worked hard the day before. Fatigue, without an obvious cause that lasts continuously for an extended period of time is an early sign of multiple sclerosis. It can be so severe that it interferes with normal daily living activities.

Tingling and Numbness

Since MS is a nerve problem, experiencing numbness and tingling in your fingers, feet, limbs, and face is quite common. If these get worse instead of going away quickly, tell your physician.

Muscular Changes

As the whole body is affected by multiple sclerosis, you may notice unusual stiffness, muscle weakness, or spasms. When these occur without a physical injury or after exercise, they can be the first sign of more severe problems. They can also affect mobility or make you feel clumsy, unbalanced, or even dizzy.

Pain Without an Obvious Cause

Neuropathic pain can occur in the face or spread throughout the body and limbs. This is associated with the tingling and numbness mentioned above but is severe to the point of discomfort. It also comes with muscular issues.

Bladder and Bowel Issues

Urinary issues such as urge incontinence and the need to pee frequently without the ability to do so completely are common in multiple sclerosis. Bowel issues usually manifest as constipation. Bowel incontinence may occur in later stages. However, these signs may be caused by many other health issues, so they are not definitive diagnostic criteria for MS.

Problems With Vision

A common first sign of MS includes changes to your vision, such as blurriness, single-eye blindness, colorblindness, or double vision. Some people do not have these symptoms until much later in their diagnosis, however.

Cognitive and Memory Issues

Although fatigue and pain may make it challenging to stay focused and remember everything you have to do in a day, multiple sclerosis can affect thinking, memory, and planning. This can affect education, work, daily living activities, speaking clearly, and solving problems that arise throughout the day. It is also not unusual for people with MS to have depression and anxiety. These alone are not signs of the condition because there are so many other reasons for them. However, if you feel this way, make sure to bring it to your physician’s attention.

Getting an early diagnosis for multiple sclerosis can help you get the care you need. LifeChoice Hospice & Palliative Care in Wheeling, IL, has helped many advanced MS sufferers lived their most comfortable and cared for life during the end stages.