The early signs of MS can be varied or overlap with symptoms of other illnesses. However, a proper diagnosis is critical, as early MS treatments can delay the disease’s progression. Most adults with MS in the U.S. receive their diagnoses between the ages of 20 and 50.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
As the attacks seem to target nerves at random, symptoms vary widely.
What Are the Early Signs of MS?
Some of the more common early signs of MS include:
- Tingling and numbness
- Weakness
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Vision problems
- Pain
- Muscle spasms or cramps
- Bladder issues
- Fatigue
- Cognitive problems
- Sexual dysfunction
In some patients with MS, the condition initially presents with neurological symptoms that have no other known cause and last at least 24 hours. These symptoms are known as a clinically isolated syndrome (CIS).
CIS doesn’t always lead to MS, but since CIS results from demyelination or damage to the myelin that occurs with MS, it often serves as an early sign of the disease.
For example, a CIS episode could include optic neuritis resulting from damage to the myelin of the optic nerve that causes eye pain and vision issues. Another condition associated with CIS is transverse myelitis, which can cause muscle weakness or numbness.
Diagnosing MS
There isn’t a standard test to diagnose MS. Instead, most physicians start by ruling out other medical conditions with similar symptoms. For example, Lyme disease, diabetes, nerve damage, and lupus are sometimes mistaken for MS, and vice versa.
After a thorough exam and medical history, your doctor may request testing to determine whether you have MS. Blood tests, a spinal tap, and an MRI can help your physician rule out other conditions or identify telltale signs of MS, such as lesions on your brain or spinal cord.
Most patients have relapsing-remitting MS, which typically allows for a more straightforward diagnosis. However, those with unusual symptoms or an uncommon disease progression may require further testing.
Managing Symptoms of MS
Aggressively managing early signs of MS as soon as possible has the potential to slow the disease’s progression. That’s why identifying early symptoms is critical to maintaining your health.
Research status and treatment decisions
Research into emerging medical approaches is ongoing. Early laboratory findings, small studies, or preliminary clinical results do not establish that a product or procedure is safe or effective for every person with this condition. Treatment decisions should account for the quality of the evidence, regulatory status, known risks, established alternatives, and the patient’s individual medical history.
Questions to discuss with a licensed clinician
- What diagnosis has been confirmed, and what else could be causing the symptoms?
- Which established treatment options are appropriate, and what are their expected benefits and risks?
- What evidence supports the specific product or procedure being considered?
- Is the proposed use FDA-approved for this exact purpose or being studied in a registered clinical trial?
- What side effects, costs, follow-up needs, and alternatives should be considered?
This article provides general educational information and is not medical advice. It does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition, and it does not promise a particular outcome.
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