Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which your body's immune cells attack the protective covering surrounding the nerves in your body. This protective covering (myelin sheath) protects the signals that go through nerves similarly to the way rubber protects electrical signals that go through copper wires. Without an intact myelin sheath, nerve signals can become altered. According to the Mayo Clinic, MS is more likely to occur in women between the ages of 20 to 40. Symptoms of nerve damage can differ depending on the location of the damage.
Eye Nerve Damage
According to the Mayo Clinic, MS can result in nerve damage of the eyes. A common first symptom of MS is pain in the eye during movement, called optic neuritis. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) reports that the 10-year risk of developing MS after an episode of optic neuritis is 38 percent. In other words, out of 100 people who have optic neuritis, 38 will have developed MS in a 10-year period. Additional eye nerve damage due to MS includes a partial or complete loss of vision, and double vision or blurry vision. If you are experiencing abnormal changes in your vision, seek proper diagnosis and treatment from your doctor.
Pain
Pain is a common symptom of MS nerve damage, according to the Mayo Clinic. The pain can range from tingling, dull, to sharp, and can occur in multiple parts of the body. In addition, the Mayo Clinic states that electric-shock sensations can occur with certain head movements. If you are experiencing varied types of pain in multiple parts of your body, you may have MS. However, pain is a common symptom of many conditions, so a proper diagnosis should be sought by your doctor.
Numbness and Weakness
The Mayo Clinic states that numbness and weakness can occur in one or more limbs. These symptoms usually occur either on one side of the body or just at the bottom half. In addition, the NMSS reports that numbness of the face may be so severe that you may unknowingly bite the inside of your mouth or tongue. The NMSS also recommends that people with MS should avoid hot objects, because a raise in body temperature can worsen MS symptoms. Numbness and weakness are never normal symptoms, and should be thoroughly investigated by your doctor.
