Signs & Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of MS depend upon which nerves are affected. Different nerves control different functions and sensations in the body hence people can experience a variety of symptoms, some of which come on suddenly while others appear gradually.

A detailed description of symptoms can be found on the MS Society's website. There is also information on how to cope or deal with the problem. Other factors (aside from MS) that can produce the same symptoms are also covered, because the influence of other, unrelated, conditions is real and should not be ignored.

Symptoms may include blurred or double vision, strange sensations in and difficulty controlling and moving arms and legs, weakness, fatigue, 'pins and needles', impaired balance and bladder problems. There are numerous symptoms and anyone with MS may experience a few or many of them. No two people will have precisely the same spread and severity of symptoms. Similarly, people with MS may experience a variety of symptoms at different times and to varying levels of severity.

Fluctuations do not necessarily mean that the MS is getting worse; only that everyone has good days and bad days.