According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system is believed to attack and degrade myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers. The exact cause of MS is unclear, and there is currently (2010) no cure for this disease. However, there are treatment strategies available to manage and treat symptoms or modify the course of the disease.
Visual Difficulties
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) states that the first symptoms experienced by MS patients often involve visual difficulties such as blurred or double vision. Certain MS patients may experience red-green color distortion, while others may develop partial blindness in one eye. These symptoms may resolve in later stages of the disease.
Muscular Symptoms
Muscle-related symptoms may include muscle weakness or spasticity, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. These symptoms may lead to additional problems, including difficulty walking or issues involving coordination. Patients with MS may experience frequent loss of balance or develop significant numbness in their feet, which can interfere with the ability to walk normally.
Acute Pain
According to the Mayo Clinic, patients with MS may develop pain in certain regions of the body. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society states that approximately 48 percent of patients with MS report experiencing chronic pain. The types of pain experienced by MS patients may be characterized as stabbing (trigeminal neuralgia or Lhermitt's sign), burning or aching (dysethesias), prickling or cramping, and other types of musculoskeletal pain.
Cognitive Impairment
The NINDS states that approximately half of patients with MS experience cognitive difficulties, including issues involving concentration, memory or impaired judgment. As these symptoms are typically mild, they may be overlooked by patients or doctors in some cases.
Fatigue
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, fatigue is one of the most common symptoms exhibited by patients with MS, and occurs in approximately 80 percent of these patients. Significant fatigue may interfere with a patient's ability to complete normal daily activities at work or home.
Dizziness
According to the Mayo Clinic and the NINDS, many patients with MS experience episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society states that certain MS patients may develop vertigo.
Additional Symptoms
Patients with MS may also exhibit a number of additional symptoms, including depression, bladder or bowel dysfunction, or emotional changes. Some MS patients may also experience sexual dysfunction, speech disorders, seizures, hearing loss or respiratory problems.
