Multiple sclerosis is caused by damage to a protective covering that surrounds nerve cells called the myelin sheath. Nerve impulses are slowed or stopped. Researchers are not sure what triggers the damage, but it could be a virus or genetic defect, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The progressive disease gets worse over time, but how fast it develops depends on the individual. Various symptoms depend on the severity of attacks and can last for days, weeks or months.
Muscle
MS patients experience a loss of coordination and have problems walking or making small movements. Tremor or weakness occurs in one of more arms or legs. Painful muscle spasms can result. Numbness or abnormal sensations can occur in areas around the body, such as tingling or burning feelings. Sometimes there is facial pain. Fatigue, stiffness and unsteadiness can become bothersome as the disease progresses. Fatigue occurs in about 80 percent of patients, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS).
Intestinal and Bladder
Constipation and stool leakage are problems. Diarrhea can occur. Urinating can be difficult to begin or there may be a frequent need to urinate and incontinence. Bladder dysfunction occurs in at least 80 percent of people with MS, but the problem can be managed, the NMSS notes.
Vision
Vision problems are often the first symptoms for people with MS. Vision loss that may affect one eye at a time, double vision, dim or blurred vision, eye discomfort and uncontrollable and rapid eye movements are possible, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Mental
Mood swings from giddiness to depression can occur. Patients can develop an inability to control emotions, such as crying or laughing for no reason. Mental impairment can be subtle or obvious. Problems include memory loss, poor judgment, inattention and difficulty reasoning or solving problems. About half of all people with MS develop problems with cognitive function.
Sexual
Some men develop impotence and some women have a lack of sensation in the vagina. Sexual response begins in the central nervous system. MS may damage the nerve pathways, leading to sexual difficulties. Sexual disorders may be related to fatigue, depression and mood changes facing MS patients. The NMSS says it is difficult to determine if sexual dysfunction is directly related to MS.
Dizziness
Dizziness and vertigo are common problems among MS patients. They may feel off balance and have a sensation of spinning surroundings.
Pain
Nearly half of MS patients are troubled by chronic pain, according to the NMSS. More than half have significant pain at certain times.
