Multiple sclerosis is one of the most debilitating diseases known to man.

It is an autoimmune disease in which the body's own immune system attacks the central nervous system, destroying the protective sheath of the nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. As the sheath is destroyed, communication within and between nerve cells is impaired, resulting in a variety of symptoms which can be both temporary and permanent. It is estimated that over two and a half million people around the world suffer from the effects of multiple sclerosis, and the incidence rate continues to rise. Despite this, however, there are still a great deal of misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding the disease – including its associated symptoms.

In this article, we will take a look at the wide range of multiple sclerosis symptoms which can affect those living with the condition – from the most common through to the rarest. By understanding these symptoms, we can have a better appreciation of the impact that the condition can have on an individual's life – and how best to provide support and relief.

Common Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

There are a range of symptoms which are particularly common when it comes to multiple sclerosis. The most common of these include:

Fatigue One of the most common MS symptoms is fatigue – a feeling of intense tiredness that keeps recurring even when the individual has had adequate rest and sleep. Many with the condition find that the fatigue can be so disabling that they cannot perform normal everyday activities such as going shopping or walking the dog. It is important for physicians to properly diagnose the fatigue as being MS-related, as some common medications used to treat MS can make the fatigue worse.

Cognition Problems Cognition problems can be particularly difficult to combat when it comes to multiple sclerosis. These problems refer to difficulties with attention, memory, problem-solving, and even executive functions, such as decision-making. Memory problems are particularly common, and those with multiple sclerosis often have difficulty retrieving information within a short timeframe. It is important to note that these problems should not necessarily be confused with depression – which is an entirely separate concern.

Muscle Weakness and Spasticity Muscle weakness and spasticity are particularly common symptoms of MS. Spasticity is caused by damage to nerve pathways that help to regulate muscle tone, resulting in involuntary muscle contractions and spasms. MS-related muscle weakness can be triggered by physical exertion or by changes in temperature.

Sensory Issues Those with multiple sclerosis can experience sensory issues such as numbness or tingling, as well as sensations of ‘pins and needles’. Other common issues include feelings of burning and pain. These issues can be particularly difficult to deal with, not least because they often interfere with basic tasks such as writing, eating, and even walking.

Tremors Tremors, or shaking movements, are another common symptom of multiple sclerosis. Tremors can vary in intensity and frequency depending on the individual, and can even affect the entire body.

Less Common Symptoms In addition to the more common symptoms associated with MS, there are also some less common symptoms which can affect individuals living with the condition. These include:

Bladder and Bowel Problems Many MS sufferers experience problems with urination and defecation. Patients to experience bladder issues such as urinary urgency and incontinence, while bowel problems can include constipation and difficulty passing stools.

Visual Problems Vision problems are a common symptom of MS, and can range from blurred vision to blindness. As the disease affects the optic nerves, vision loss can occur suddenly without warning.