Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative disorder characterized by episodes of neurological symptoms followed by long periods of remission. Typically, as the disease progresses, symptoms become more severe and remission periods lessen. In MS, the protective covering of nerve cells becomes damaged and the resultant scarring interferes with the cell's ability to transmit messages. It is more common in women and often strikes in the 20s or 30s. The range of symptoms varies somewhat for each patient and often changes during the course of the disease.
Fatigue
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society explains that around 80 percent of MS patients experience fatigue. This fatigue, known as lassitude, is characterized by weariness and a severe lack of energy. Lassitude occurs almost daily, and tends to worsen in the afternoon and evening. It often causes the patient to cease all activity and rest. Hot weather or a hot ambient temperature indoors can exacerbate the feeling of fatigue.
Stiffness and Spasms
The typical sufferer has leg stiffness, making for an unsteady gait. The muscles of the arms and legs may spasm, especially at night. The patient's hands may tremble when she attempts to use them and she may be unable to control her movements at times. She may drop objects and seem clumsy or uncoordinated.
Numbness
Numbness and tingling may be felt in one or more areas of the body. It is often described as a burning sensation or the feeling that something is crawling on or under the skin. The patient may have a decreased ability to sense pain or an uncomfortable temperature, making him apt to hurt himself by touching something that is too hot to hold. A pain syndrome may develop in the face or throughout the body.
Vision Changes
The U.S. National Library of Medicine indicates that vision changes are common in multiple sclerosis. Eyesight may become blurred or double vision may occur, both causing great difficulty with performing everyday tasks. Some patients experience spots or areas of diminished sight in their peripheral vision. Eye pain is a typical complaint and it is not unusual to experience quick, jerky, involuntary eye movements.
Psychological Changes
A wide variety of psychological changes can occur due to the damage to the nervous system found in MS. Patients often become depressed, irritable or irrational. They may laugh uncontrollably or cry inconsolably for no reason. Short-term memory may be hampered and poor judgment may cloud decisions. Many patients with MS express a difficulty with concentrating or performing mathematical problems.
Dizziness
Another common symptom of multiple sclerosis is dizziness, also described as lightheadedness. Some patients have a sensation that the room is spinning around them, causing the need to hold onto something as they stand.
References
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society: What We Know About MS: Symptoms
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: X-Plain Multiple Sclerosis
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing"; Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
