Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. The condition is not fully understood but contributing factors include genetics, environment, and possibly even viruses. There is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis. Symptoms of multiple sclerosis MS can be interment and flare up. These include:

1. Vision problems
Vision problems are often the first symptom people with multiple sclerosis will experience. Half the people with MS will experience vision issues which could include blurred vision, gray vision, short periods of blindness in one eye, or eye pain. The issue occurs when the nerves between the eyes and brain get inflamed. These flare up quickly and can last for several weeks. Vision issues are intermediate and can come and go.

2. Tingling and numbness
People with MS will often feel numbness or tingling sensations in their face, body, arms or legs. The tingling sensation can occur in one or both arms and legs. This is a very common symptom.

3. Pains and spasms
One of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis is pain and spasms in the body. Spasms frequently occur in the legs but can occur in other parts of the body. Pain and tightness is often felt in the joints and lower back. Research has shown that more than half of multiple sclerosis patients experience pain and spasms.

4. Weakness or fatigue
Fatigue is a notable symptom in multiple sclerosis patients. Although the exact reason for the weakness is unknown most doctors attribute it to the constant activation of the immune system. Other research attributes the fatigue to patient’s brains working harder especially during MS flare ups.

5. Balance problems or dizziness
Many people with MS will experience dizzy spells and balance issues. Less common is a conditional called vertigo where a patient’s surroundings are spinning. These episodes occur because of lesions on the pathways between the patient’s visual, spatial and other inputs to the brain. The lesions break the normal connections and lead to the person’s balance becoming off.

6. Bladder issues
Eighty percent of multiple sclerosis patients experience bladder dysfunction. This is caused by blockages between nerve signals in the central nervous system. These blocks occur because of lesions on the nerves. The condition, although treatable, can be embarrassing until under control.

7. Cognitive problems
Half of all multiple sclerosis patients have cognitive issues. These could include memory loss, lower attention span, trouble making plans, problems making decisions, issues with comprehension and understanding, or general concentration issues.

It is important to recognize the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. If you experience these symptoms you should consult with your doctor.