The early symptoms of multiple sclerosis are different for each person. Because the disease develops differently in each individual, the symptoms will depend on what part of the brain the disease is affecting.
What Multiple Sclerosis Does
Multiple sclerosis, or MS as it is more commonly known, is an autoimmune disease. The body's immune system attacks healthy cells in the nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord. This results in loss of muscle control, vision, balance and sensation.
In multiple sclerosis, myelin, which is the protective coating on the nerves, is destroyed in a process known as demyelization. The demyelization causes a buildup of scar tissue, or sclerosis, to form on the brain and spinal cord. Without the protective myelin coating, nerves are unable to transmit electrical signals throughout the brain and spinal cord properly. After demyelization, the brain is unable to send messages to and receive messages from different parts of the body.
MS Symtpoms
The symptoms of MS are a direct result of the broken communication with the brain. While the body does replace the myelin coating on the nerves, the rate is not fast enough to offset the symptoms of MS.
Most cases of MS develop between the ages of 20 and 40. Once you reach age 50, the risk of developing MS declines. MS develops more often in women then in men, and heredity is a key risk factor. If you have a family history of MS, it is important to provide this information to your doctor.
The symptoms of MS may be dramatic or they may be nearly unnoticeable. It is not usual for some patients to experience only one symptom, while other experience several symptoms. Many times the symptoms of MS are attributed to fatigue or another disorder. Only a doctor can accurately diagnose MS.
Sensory Symptoms
Other Symptoms
Because damage builds up in the brain and spinal cord over time, the prognosis of multiple sclerosis is best for those who are diagnosed early and begin treatment right away. Not everyone responds to every treatment, but some treatments have slowed the progression of the disease and even reversed some nerve damage in patients.
 | Multiple sclerosis warning signs are important to recognize. Early intervention can make a difference in your treatment options for MS. |
 | Multiple sclerosis warning signs can be very subtle or come on all at once. Learn the symptoms common to the early stages of this condition. |
 | Understanding the early symptoms of multiple sclerosis can help you take a proactive approach in your health. Early intervention can make a world of difference in how the disease affects you. |
 | What causes multiple sclerosis? Although the cause is not entirely clear, doctors have been able to identify important patterns related to this disease. |
 | What causes multiple sclerosis? While the exact trigger is unknown, researchers now consider genetics and environmental factors to be possible causes. |
