Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis | National MS Society
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Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

Exploring Symptoms of MS

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis are variable and unpredictable. No two people have exactly the same symptoms, and symptoms can change or fluctuate over time. One person might experience only one or two of the possible symptoms. Another may experience many more.Learn more about your symptoms or those of someone you care about. Use our MS Symptom Tracker to keep track of what you are experiencing. With the help of your team of healthcare professionals, you can find the management strategies you need to manage your symptoms.

Common MS Symptoms

Bladder Dysfunction
Bladder dysfunction occurs in about 80% of people living with MS.
Bowel Dysfunction
Address bowel issues with the correct diet, adequate fluid intake, physical activity and medication.
Cognitive Changes
Changes in cognitive function are common in people living with MS.
Depression
Depression is a common MS symptom. Paying attention to your mental health and practicing wellness strategies can help.
Emotional Changes
Changes in your emotions can be a reaction to the stresses of living with MS and the result of neurologic changes.
Fatigue
For many people living with MS, fatigue is the most prominent symptom.
MS Hug (Dysesthesia)
An MS hug is a squeezing sensation around the torso that feels like a blood pressure cuff when it tightens.
Numbness or Tingling
Numbness of the face, body or extremities (arms and legs) can be an early symptom of MS.
Pain and Itching
Pain syndromes are common among people living with MS, possibly affecting up to half of all people living with MS.
Sexual Dysfunction
Damage to the nervous system and changes in roles and responsibilities may affect your sex life.
Spasticity
Common experiences of spasticity include muscle stiffness or involuntary contractions.
Vertigo and Dizziness
People living with MS may feel lightheaded or that their surroundings are spinning.
Vision Issues
If you live with MS, a change in your vision may have been your first symptom.
Walking (Gait) Difficulties
Muscle weakness, spasticity, loss of balance, sensory deficit or fatigue can cause mobility challenges.
Weakness
People living with MS may use their muscles less or experience damage to nerves that stimulate muscles.

Secondary Symptoms

Primary symptoms are the direct result of damage to the central nervous system. They can cause secondary symptoms. For example:
  • Bladder dysfunction can cause repeated urinary tract infections.
  • Inactivity can cause loss of muscle tone and decreased bone density.
  • Immobility can cause pressure sores.
It is best to avoid secondary symptoms by addressing the primary symptoms. Work with your care team to treat all symptoms.
Learn How to Treat MS

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©️ 2024 The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is a tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Its Identification Number (EIN) is 13-5661935.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is proud to be a source of information on multiple sclerosis related topics. Unless otherwise indicated, the information provided is based on professional advice, published experience and expert opinion. However, the information does not constitute medical or legal advice. For specific medical advice, consult a qualified physician. For specific legal advice, consult a qualified attorney.

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