Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive immune disease that affects the immune system and makes it attack parts of your body that are responsible for your vital functions. Over time, the destruction of the protective myelin sheath can compromise the functioning of the brain and the spinal cord. Since MS has unpredictable symptoms, it is important to recognize these early signs to prevent long-term damage and get timely treatment.

1. Vision-related problems
The most common symptom of MS is vision problems. Persistent inflammation can interfere with central vision by damaging the optic nerve. As a result, one experiences double vision, loss of vision, or blurriness. These vision-related problems can be recognized immediately and must treated as a red flag.

2. Numbness
MS can affect the spinal cord and brain functioning. This means it sometimes sends wrong signals or no signals at all. A person may experience numbness due to this. If the numbness is preceded by a tingling feeling in your fingers, arms, legs, or face, then it can be a sign of MS.

3. Chronic pain
Pain and discomfort followed by spasms is also one of the most common early signs of MS. You may also experience muscle stiffness or painful jerking movements. The most affected area in this case are the legs. However, one may also suffer from back pain.

4. Fatigue
If an individual is experiencing inexplicable weakness or fatigue, they should get themselves tested as it could be a sign of MS. Chronic fatigue occurs when your nerves in the spinal column are damaged. It may happen suddenly and takes weeks before showing any signs of improvement. The weakness is mostly discernible in the legs.

5. Dizziness
Someone with MS will have problems with coordination and balance. Therefore, if you face regular spells of dizziness, you need to bring it to your doctor’s attention. People with MS feel lightheaded, dizzy, and loss of balance. These symptoms mostly occur when you stand up.

6. Bladder dysfunction
Bladder dysfunction is another warning sign of MS that occurs in more than 80% people. It can include a strong urge to pass urine and frequent urination.

7. Loss of libido
Another problem faced by people with MS is loss of libido. Since MS attacks the central nervous system, it can have an adverse effect on your sexual life.

8. Cognitive dysfunction
Degeneration of cognitive functions is also a common symptom of MS. It includes problems like memory loss, incoherent language, shortened attention span, depression, and difficulty staying organized, among other things.

9. Emotional difficulties
People with MS often have a hard time processing their emotions in a healthy manner. Due to this, they face stress that can lead to mood swings and irritability. It can also include spells of uncontrollable laughter and crying.

Recognizing these warning signs is the first step towards recovery. If one experiences one or more of these symptoms on a regular basis, they should consider scheduling an appointment with the doctor.