Women between 20 and 40 are most susceptible to multiple sclerosis, a disease of the immune system that damages the myelin sheathing surrounding the nerves. Symptoms can vary from woman to woman depending on which nerves are affected. The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America states that symptoms may appear, last for a short time and then disappear for months or years. In some, the disease may progress at a more steady pace.
Vision Problems
Difficulty in seeing can manifest as blurred or double vision. Uncontrollable eye movements or pain or discomfort may be present. Optic neuritis, described by the Mayo Clinic as an inflammation of the nerve bundles that transmit visual information from the eye, is found in 55 percent of MS patients and can be instrumental in diagnosing the disease.
Coordination and Balance
Numerous symptoms related to muscle coordination, balance and weakness occur in the woman with MS. Difficulties with arm movements or walking, inability to grasp, muscle stiffness or pain, spasms and shakiness of the hands may be noticed. Dizziness or the feeling of being off-balance is common as is difficulty with speech and swallowing.
Fatigue
Extreme tiredness that cannot be rectified by sleep or rest is a common symptom of MS. Weariness may be exacerbated by heat or activity and be more prevalent at midday. It may be accompanied by weakness in the extremities and mental fatigue.
Numbness
Numbness on one side or the lower portion of the body can occur. Many women with multiple sclerosis experience tingling sensations, itching, burning, pins and needles. Some feel electric shocks with head movement. Most of these symptoms are treatable and pose no severe threat.
