According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, multiple sclerosis (MS) is "a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system." It's thought that MS is a form of autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the myelin sheath that insulates nerve cells. However, environmental factors are believed to play a role, because the incidence of MS is higher furthest from the equator. MS is more prevalent in women than men and is usually diagnosed between ages of 25 and 40. A number of common symptoms may signal the onset of MS.
Optic Neuritis
A vision problem is the first symptom of MS for many people, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Optic neuritis is an example of a visual disturbance that may signal the onset of MS. Optic neuritis is associated with loss of visual acuity and eye pain. According to the National Eye Institute, over half of people who experience first-time optic neuritis go on to develop MS. However, research has revealed that treating a first episode of optic neuritis with corticosteroids may lower the chance of developing MS within the next two years.
Walking Difficulties
According to the University Hospital of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, "gait and balance disturbances are common in patients with MS and are the initial complaint in about 15 percent of cases." In 2010, the Food and Drug Administration approved the drug, fampridine-SR to improve walking in patients with MS.
Sensory Problems
According to the University Hospital of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, sensory problems affect 20 percent to 60 percent of MS patients and are often the first symptom of MS that causes a person to visit her doctor for tests. If you experience sensory problems, you may complain of tingling sensations in the body and may even feel as though you're having an electric shock, particularly down your back and legs.
Spasticity
Spasticity, defined by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation as "weakness [and] slowness in building up to maximal power of muscle activity and relaxing again," occurs with the initial attack of MS in 30 percent to 40 percent of patients. It's also believed to affect 60 percent of patients with progressive MS. However, it's "amenable to efficient treatment," the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation says.
References
- National Multiple Scleosis Society:What we know about MS
- The National Eye Institute: Corticosteroids for First-Time Optic Neuritis Lowers Risk of Developing Multiple Sclerosis
- University Hospital of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics: Multiple Sclerosis
- The Multiple Sclerosis Resource Center: Ampyra
- Multiple Sclerosis International Federation: About MS: Spasticity
