Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-lasting, progressive disease of the central nervous system. Signs and symptoms of the disease tend to vary greatly among individuals, depending on the location and the extent of nerve damage. Although MS manifests differently in different people, there are some common early signs that one must be aware of. Getting treatment at an early stage can help individuals manage the symptoms better and may even delay the progression of MS.

1. Fatigue and weakness
Over 80% of people with MS experience fatigue and weakness in the early stages. Fatigue often comes on suddenly and can last for several weeks. It occurs when nerves in the spinal column deteriorate. Weakness usually first affects the legs before spreading to other areas of the body. Like fatigue, it can also last for several weeks before it begins to subside.

2. Vision problems
Problems with vision are also among the most common early signs of MS. It occurs when inflammation damages the optic nerve that connects the eye to the brain. This can lead to blurred vision, double vision, and vision loss. These symptoms may also be accompanied by severe eye pain when looking up or to the sides. Although vision problems can be associated with various causes, it’s crucial to get them evaluated by a doctor to prevent them from worsening.

3. Tingling and numbness
Both tingling and numbness are among the first warning signs of MS. These symptoms can be felt anywhere in the body but are most common in the face, arms, fingers, and legs. Tingling and numbness occur when nerves in the body’s vital communication components, the brain, and spinal cord are affected. They are often mild in the beginning but tend to aggravate over time. Although these symptoms are not disabling, they can be a strong indication of MS.

4. Pain and spasms
Long-lasting or chronic pain and involuntary muscle spasms are also common early signs of MS. Some studies show that more than half the people with the condition suffer from chronic pain in the back, hips, arms, or legs. The sensation of pain can be burning, stabbing, or electric shock-like. Muscle spasms are also very common and involve painful, jerking movements of the arms and legs.

5. Bladder and bowel problems
Most people with MS face some bladder issues. Bladder dysfunction is the result of lesions impacting the nerve signals that control bladder function. Problems can include frequent urination, urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, and difficulty starting urination or emptying the bladder. Bowel problems are not as common as bladder problems but can include loss of bowel control, diarrhea, or constipation.

6. Dizziness and loss of balance
Dizziness and balance problems are observed in many people with MS. These symptoms can occur when an individual experiences lightheadedness, weakness, or nausea. Sometimes, people with MS also experience vertigo, which makes them feel like everything around them is spinning. All these symptoms can make an individual walk clumsily or lose their balance.