Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis may include numbness, pain, and other sensory disturbances. MS affects the central nervous system, the brain and spinal cord. The underlying cause of MS is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks normal body tissues and the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers in the central nervous system.
The symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis can vary from person to person. In some cases, the symptoms will become less severe with the use of treatment. Other symptoms may be more severe and lead to more difficulty in day-to-day life. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention and find out what you can do to help.
Numbness is one of the most common warning signs of MS. Often, numbness affects only one part of the body, but it can be present throughout the body. This can affect walking, coordination, and balance. Many people with MS also have a sensation of prickling or tingling when touching certain areas. Another common symptom is dizziness. If you are experiencing dizziness, it is important to make sure that you are taking the proper measures to prevent falls. You may also want to take physical therapy to help you improve your strength and balance.
Approximately five percent of people with MS also experience bladder dysfunction. When bladder problems occur, social activities can be disrupted. These symptoms can also interfere with vocational activities. However, this symptom is common and is often manageable.
Aside from bladder dysfunction, MS patients may also experience constipation. Constipation may cause problems for up to 50 percent of people with MS. In many cases, this problem is caused by muscle spasms. These spasms may affect the bowels and cause a person to lose control of their bowels.
Occasionally, MS can cause urinary tract infections. This can lead to bladder dysfunction, fecal incontinence, and other urinary symptoms. People with urinary tract infections are more likely to experience bladder dysfunction.
MS may cause problems with vision. Vision problems may be triggered by optic neuritis, an eye condition that causes pain, vision loss, and other symptoms. In addition, MS can cause a person to experience pruritis, which is a tingling sensation on the skin. It is also important to check your skin for pressure sores. Pressure sores can cause serious injuries.
Other common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis include back pain, difficulty with walking, and pain in the arms or legs. A person with MS may also have trouble with swallowing. If this happens, it may cause food to enter the airway, raising the risk of urinary tract infection.
There are several drugs for MS. These drugs include muscle relaxants, such as Zanaflex, and analgesics for pain. These drugs help ease the muscle spasticity and pain that people with MS often experience. In addition, patients should make sure that they are getting enough fiber and water. The use of cold clothing, relaxation techniques, and exercise can also help.
