Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative condition which can lead to permanent disability. This condition is caused by the body’s immune system attacking the protective sheath that surrounds the nerves. Known as myelin, this coating helps to transmit the nerve impulses to the brain and without it motor functions decrease. It is important to recognize the early warning signs of MS:

1. Balance problems and dizziness

As nerve impulses become more compromised this can have a notable effect on general stability whilst moving. Contracting muscles and loss of sensation can cause an unusual and noticeable change to your walking gait. Sufferers also report developing vertigo in the early stages of MS suffering from lightheadedness upon standing. Coordination and balance can be greatly impacted by the increasing damage caused by the MS

2. Tingling and numbness

Tingling and pain and numbness can be a noticeable early sign of developing multiple sclerosis. As the immune system attacks the nerves in the spinal cord this can cause confusing nerve signals to be sent around the body. This can cause intermittent nerve signals which result in tingling and sometimes feelings of electric shock when moving. There can also be no nerve impulses which can result in feelings of numbness. Numbness of the face, arms, legs and digits can be early indications of the condition. If there is no other probable reason for numbness such as cold or other medical condition MS may be the cause.

3. Pains and spasms

A very common indicator for multiple sclerosis is attacks of sharp pain and muscle spasms. As the myelin is destroyed from the nerves the messages sent to the brain become very confused. Muscles will contract for no reason and can often result in extreme pain especially during an intense flare up of the condition.

4. Vision problems

Some of the first nerves to be affected by MS are the optic nerves meaning that vision issues can be a good early indicator. The damage caused to the optic nerves can result in blurred vision, seeing double or ultimately loss of eyesight entirely. This can be a slow process but an accompanying indicator could be pain when you look upwards or to the side. Gradual sight degeneration accompanied by ocular pain when moving the eyes can indicate the beginning of MS.

5. Bladder issues

A very common symptom which studies show affects 80 percent of MS sufferers can be bladder dysfunction. Sufferers may find that the need to urinate more frequently, have strong urges to pass or may struggle to hold their urine. This is a symptom that can usually be managed but potentially can become worse. Some sufferers can also experience bowel issues. These issues can include constipation, diarrhea and potentially loss of bowel control.

To manage MS symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, doctors will often prescribe a mix of lifestyle and diet changes, physical therapies, and prescription medications such as Aubagio teriflunomide immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory properties.