Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a debilitating autoimmune disease caused by the deterioration of protective nerve coverings, known as the myelin sheath. Without a protective covering, nerve impulses to the brain slow down or stop. Episodes of an MS outbreak alternate with periods of remission. The condition is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 20 and 40. MS is progressive, and nerve damage worsens over time. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the nerve fibers affected; MS affects all portions of the brain and spinal cord. The nerve deterioration is eventually irreversible, and complications including paralysis, mental changes and depression can occur.
Muscle Weakness and Movement
MS affects major muscle groups. A person experiences weakness of the extremities, including the hands and feet. Numbness is commonly felt on one side or half of the body at a time -- often the lower half of the body. Muscle weakness may lead to difficulty walking or moving arms and legs. Coordination and small movements may also be difficult for the MS patient. Tremors and unsteady gait are common. Symptoms associated with muscle weakness can be compensated for with exercise as well as assistive devices, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Loss of Vision
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society reports vision problems as one of the first symptoms of MS. MS may cause a person to temporarily lose vision partially or completely. Vision problems commonly only affect one eye at a time. Optic neuritis, or painful eye movement, is often present. Double or blurred vision is also a common symptom associated with MS. The sudden loss of vision causes great amounts of anxiety in many MS patients, reports the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Fatigue
A common symptom as MS progresses is fatigue. The symptom occurs in about 80 percent of MS cases, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society; it is the most common reason why MS patients depart from the workforce. The type of fatigue experienced by MS sufferers is different than the type of fatigue most people experience. MS fatigue commonly occurs during the morning, even after a full night's rest. Fatigue occurs daily and progressively worsens throughout the day. MS fatigue is more tiring than regular fatigue. Fatigue is generally aggravated by heat and humidity.
