3. Numbness and tingling
Because Multiple Sclerosis affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord; it may send confusing signals around the body. Sometimes, no signals are sent which may cause a person to experience numbness.
The most common places a person will experience numbness are in the legs, arms, fingers and face. Tingling and numbness are the most common warning signs of Multiple Sclerosis.
4. Balance problems and dizziness
Problems with dizziness and coordination are very common in people with MS. Multiple Sclerosis can prevent freedom of movement because an individual could feel lightheaded, dizzy and vertigo or like the environment is spinning, particularly upon standing up.
5. Bowel and bladder dysfunction
Bowel and bladder dysfunction happen in a large percentage of people with MS. The problem can include urinating frequently, inability to hold in urine, and a strong urge to urinate.
Less commonly, people with MS may experience diarrhea, constipation or total loss of bowel control.
6. Fatigue and weakness
Unexplained weakness and fatigue are quite common in people with Multiple Sclerosis. Chronic fatigue happens when nerves deteriorate in spinal column and it can happen suddenly and go on for weeks before getting better.
7. Emotions
Multiple Sclerosis can cause depression in some people. [6] In addition to depression, the disease can also cause mood swings, irritability and bouts of uncontrollable laughing and crying. The stress of living with MS can cause problems in a person’s personal relationships and also result in family issues.
8. Cognitive issues
Many people with MS will develop some sort of issue with cognitive function. These symptoms can include; language difficulties, memory problems, shortened attention span and organizational issues.
9. Electric shock sensations
People with Multiple Sclerosis can experience a shocking sensation with certain neck movements, particularly when bending the neck straight forward.
Living with a chronic disease like MS can be very hard. To manage the stresses of adjusting to life with Multiple Sclerosis, it is important to be aware of the condition and to adapt accordingly.
You can make balancing life with MS much more easily if you try to maintain your normal activities as much as possible, stay connected to your family and friends and continue to live your life to the fullest.
Through joining a support group, you can connect with others living with MS, and discuss your fears, concerns and questions with others who understand exactly what you are going through.