Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an auto-immune disorder that progressively attacks protective coatings of nerve cells. Your body’s communication system is altered during the onset of multiple sclerosis. The protective sheath is vital for your body’s response system and MS can permanently damage these nerve cells. As a result of this, brain function and spinal cord efficiency is diminished. This disease has many symptoms and some are unpredictable.

These symptoms of MS also differ in intensity when experienced. Although there is no cure, knowing the early warning signs of MS is important for timely treatment:

1. Vision loss
Vision is one of the first senses affected by the onset of MS. Although loss of vision can be caused by many things, painful vision loss in one or both eyes is a common early warning sign of multiple sclerosis. Those dealing with this symptom often experience a blurred or smudged visual from one eye. The nerve cells that are damaged by this illness can cause optic neuritis; which results in vision impairments.

2. Persistent weakness and numbness
Occasional limb numbness is something that everyone experiences. Common causes for limb numbness are sleeping in the wrong position and being immobile for too long. When a physical numbing sensation lasts more than a few hours however, it should be further investigated. When the protective layers of nerves become damaged, certain limbs may lose strength as a result. Body parts that are commonly targeted by multiple sclerosis are fingers, arms, legs, and face.

3. Ongoing dizziness
Dizziness lasting more than 24 hours has been associated with the early onset of multiple sclerosis. Those experiencing this symptom may feel physically off balance and foggy. This is the body‘s response to diminishing nerve cells. Individuals may also experience highly-intense dizzy spells; also known as vertigo. This level of dizziness can be accompanied by nausea and mental fatigue. Ongoing dizziness is a symptom often accompanied with vision impairments. MS causes nerve lesions that disrupts communication between the central nervous system and other parts of the body. When this symptom is experienced, it‘s recommended to sit down until it stops, turn off bright lights, and seek medical attention.

4. Bladder dysfunction
More than 75% of all people dealing with multiple sclerosis also experience dysfunctional bladder. Oftentimes, MS patients find it difficult to hold in efficient levels of urine. This is the result of MS lesions blocking response signals being sent to the central nervous system. Spastic bladder is an early warning sign of MS that can negatively impact your overall health if not tended to. This symptom can lead to a challenging social life, intensifying other MS symptoms, and repeat urinary tract infections.

Millions of people worldwide are affected by multiple sclerosis. Becoming familiar with the early warning signs of MS can significantly impact your overall health. If you are experiencing signs of multiple sclerosis, it is recommended to seek a qualified medical professional.