Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system and attacks the nerves. Symptoms may come and go, especially in the early stages of the disease, and they range from mild to severe.
Here is a list of common symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Many of them can be produced by other conditions, and only a doctor can diagnose the condition.

Numbness
Numbness is a classic symptom of multiple sclerosis. Lack of feeling or weakness in one or more limbs may result in restricted use of arms and legs or the ability to grasp objects.

Tingling
Along with numbness may come a tingling sensation, as if the fingers or toes were falling asleep.

Vision Problems
Like numbness, trouble with eyesight is a hallmark symptom of multiple sclerosis and is one of the first symptoms to bring people to the doctor. Blurred eyesight and double vision are a result of the disease attacking the optic nerves.

Slurred Speech
Another symptom is change in speech patterns. Slurring words, speaking too loudly or softly, or speaking hoarsely can signal the onset of MS.

Balance and Coordination
Multiple sclerosis damages nerves that signal the muscles and may also damage the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance. This results in lack of balance and coordination.

Exhaustion
Most MS sufferers experience fatigue. In severe cases, the fatigue is constant and gets worse as the day progresses.

Tremors
Muscle spasms, and muscle stiffness, are another symptom of nerve degeneration. In severe cases, this spasticity can distort the limbs into frozen, uncomfortable postures.

Pain
Like tingling, a burning sensation in the arms, legs or appendages is also a symptom. Another kind of pain occurs as the result of walking unsteadily with body misalignment.

Bladder Dysfunction
Nerve damage from multiple sclerosis may cause the brain to give the wrong signals to the bladder. A person either feels the constant need to urinate, whether the bladder’s full or not, or no need to urinate at all. The latter condition can lead to urinary infections and a distended bladder.

Constipation
Along with bladder dysfunction is constipation. As the nerves become damaged, the digestive system may function poorly and not move food through the colon adequately.

Dizziness
The feeling that the world is spinning or that there is a danger of falling is a symptom that goes along with the lack of balance.

Sexual Dysfunction
The nerve damage attendant on multiple sclerosis can lead to reduced sensation in both men and women. There can be a difficulty in reaching orgasm. Men may find it difficult to sustain an erection. Lack of bladder control may be inhibiting.

Depression
Depression can be a result of the nerve damage. It can also arise from living with a chronic, painful, debilitating disease.

Anxiety
Anxiety, mood swings and irritability can all result from brain impairment. Like depression, anxiety is also linked to living with the limitations and discomfort brought on by the disease.

Cognitive Dysfunction
Multiple sclerosis may affect specific areas of the brain. Certain brain functions may be affected. Short-term memory loss, trouble focusing, or slowed speed of thinking are examples.

Emotional Dysfunction
A small percentage of multiple sclerosis sufferers may experience a disconnect with their emotions. They may cry for no reason or laugh without provocation.

About Author: Derek is currently blogging for MS Living Symptom Free, a site that shares some guides and tips in facing MS.
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