Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a condition where the immune system starts working against the central nervous system rather than with it. Inflammation caused by the immune system damages myelin, the protective coating around the nerves, and the nerves themselves. As the areas get more damaged, scars start to form. The ability to send and receive nerve messages is altered or even stopped. MS is chronic and unpredictable.

MS seems to be caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors that are not yet fully understood, here are the earliest warning signs:

1. Vision issues

Vision issues are one of the first early warning signs of MS that people notice. Vision may blur or colors fade in contrast to each other in one eye. Some people feel pain when they move their eyes, have double vision, or have eyes that move rapidly on their own.

2. Tingling or numbness

Tingling or numbness in the extremities is another frequent early sign. Hands and feet (or arms and legs) may feel like they are “asleep”. Some people feel this in their face or other parts of their body as well.

3. Spasms

Muscles growing very stiff or having spasms is another warning sign. These incidents of spasticity in the legs most often. These incidents may occur with movement or even changes in the weather.

4. Pain

Nerve pain can be a direct result of MS. Other pains may be an indirect result of muscle weakness, stiffness, and mobility problems. MS pain are generally sharp and stabbing, but they can be itching or burning as well.

5. Cognitive issues

Some of the cognitive (mental) issues that may arise with MS include information processing, creating new memories, attention, concentration, inability to plan, visual perception, and word-finding. These changes can occur early, but more often happen as the disease progresses.

6. Weakness

Muscle weakness can happen at any place in the body. It can happen because of damage to the nerves directly. Weakness can also happen indirectly as a result of muscular deconditioning brought on by lack of use caused by other multiple sclerosis symptoms.

7. Depression

Depression is the single most common symptom of MS. It can occur after diagnosis linked to the grieving process. MS may also directly cause depression by creating brain lesions or neurological changes.

8. Fatigue

Fatigue may be brought on by MS or other conditions. However, 80% of people with MS experience fatigue, making it a highly common symptom. Lassitude, or MS fatigue, is generally more severe, happens daily, worsens as the day goes on, and is worse in hot weather.

9. Falls

Walking gait may change. Fatigue, numbness, or balance problems can also to changes in walking that lead to falls. Falling while doing basic activities about a normal day may be a signal to look for MS.

10. Bladder problems

Changes in your urinary habits may be a warning sign. Other symptoms such as spasms or weakness may cause you to go to the bathroom more often. It might be difficult to start urinating or leaking may occur.