Multiple Symptoms for Multiple Sclerosis

Answer 1

Approximately 400,000 people in the United States have multiple sclerosis. Between the ages of twenty and forty is when it typically begins. More women than men have multiple sclerosis. Good health or remissions alternate with bouts of symptoms that worsen which are relapses or flare-ups. This disorder gradually becomes worse.

Sclerosis is scarring that occurs from tissues being destroyed that wind around nerves. This process is called demyelination. Axons which are nerve fibers can be damaged too. When axons are destroyed, the brain’s size can shrink.

To diagnose multiple sclerosis a physician has to consider the symptoms. A MRI and a physical examination need to be done.

Vision change is a symptom of MS. Blurred vision or dim vision develops. The ability to look straight ahead and see may be lost. Double vision can happen due to one eye weakening while the other eye remains stronger. This stronger eye may move rapidly in one direction and then drift back slowly. These uncoordinated eye movements are labeled as nystagmus. When the eye moves, pain can occur and partial blindness may result. All of these symptoms are from optic neuritis. The optic nerve is inflamed.

Fifty-five percent of multiple sclerosis patients will experience optic neuritis. This symptom is the one that results in diagnosing MS in fifteen percent of the population.

Vertigo and dizziness are other symptoms. Feeling faint or lightheaded to the point of being nauseous can happen.

Arms and legs may have muscle-related symptoms. Loss of balance and coordination problems crop up. Walking may be impaired. People become clumsy. Spasms, pain, and stiffness are other symptoms.

Fatigue is another symptom. Heat can trigger fatigue or a lack of energy. This type of tiredness usually is not responsive to obtaining enough sleep or rest.

Tingling and numbness is parasthesias. These symptoms target the legs and arms.

The MS hug is a painful, girdle sensation. This is where a painful, tight, band encircles the stomach.

Tremors are a common symptom. Speech and swallowing may be problematic.

More than fifty different symptoms can exist for multiple sclerosis. See your physician if you have any of these described symptoms or have other suspicious signs.