Which symptoms can occur during multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of the myelin sheath in the central nervous system, which impairs the transmission of nerve impulses. Symptoms vary depending on the affected areas of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves.12

Common symptoms include:

• Sensory and Vision: Blurred or double vision, partial blindness, eye pain, facial numbness or pain, and altered sensations, particularly regarding touch and joint position.12
• Motor and Coordination: Muscle weakness, spasticity, incoordination of the limbs, unsteady gait, and increased reflexes. In advanced stages, this may progress to complete paralysis.12
• Neurological and Cognitive: Speech disorders, depression, memory loss, emotional instability, and in severe cases, impairment of intellect.12
• Other: Bladder dysfunction (frequency and urgency) and dizziness.12

Symptoms often occur in cycles of exacerbation and remission, though some forms of the disease involve steady progression.12