The list of possible MS symptoms is long, but you are unlikely to experience all of them. Here we give a general overview of the different types of symptoms found in MS and look at which symptoms are most common.
MS is a very personal condition because the symptoms you experience relate to the positions of the lesions or nerve damage that you have. MS symptoms can appear in any order and range widely between almost unnoticeable to very disabling.
Common first symptoms
Some of the most common first symptoms are:
A kind of exhaustion which is out of all proportion to the task undertaken.
Stumbling more than before
Indicating problems with balance or co-ordination in the legs.
Unusual feelings in the skin
Such as pins and needles, pain or numbness.
Resulting in forgetting things, poor concentration, or getting lost.
Problems with eyesight
Blurred or altered vision, or pain moving the eyes.
As the course of MS changes the following symptoms may occur
Bladder and bowel disturbances
Problems with regulating your bladder and bowel are also quite common in MS.
There are several fairly common MS symptoms that might involve pain of some kind. Most are temporary, but some can be more persistent.
It is common for people with MS to notice that their symptoms get worse with extremes of heat or cold.
Both men and women can sometimes find that MS can affect their participation in and enjoyment of sex.
Emotions and mood
People with MS often find that their mood or emotions are affected, and they notice symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Might have trouble dropping off or staying asleep, or feel that your sleep is not refreshing.
There are lots of other symptoms so please speak to your GP or MS professional about symptoms you may be experiencing.
You can find much more information about MS symptoms by visiting the MS UK website.