Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the brain and central nervous system (via the spinal cord). MS is progressive in nature, meaning the signs are often subtle in the early stages. If you notice any of the following early warning signs or symptoms of MS, it is important to see a doctor right away. Catching the early warning signs of MS can better help slow disease progression and manage symptoms, both mentally and physically. Here are some of the most common early warning signs of MS:

1. Pains and spasms
A common warning sign of this disease is pain and muscle spasms. Many people who suffer from arm and leg spasms that result from their nerves and muscles not working in sync. Others often report chronic pain. This pain is often felt in the back, but can be experienced anywhere in the body.

2. Vision problems
Vision problems are one of the most common issues of MS and affects nearly everyone that has this disease. The inflammation of your body affects the optic nerve, and this in turn affects your vision. Many people may see double, have blurry vision, or lose their vision over time.

3. Tingling and numbness
MS affects your nervous system and when it disrupts your nerves it affects the signals that are being sent throughout your body. This can often result in signals not being sent or felt throughout your body. The most common places to feel tingling and numbness are your extremities.

4. Weakness or fatigue
Like most chronic diseases, MS also results in weakness and fatigue. You may find yourself feeling more tired than usual, but if it occurs for an extended period of time you may want to see your doctor. Take note of anything that changes in your daily life, like more stress or exercise. These could be the reason for your weakness or fatigue. However, if nothing in your life changes it could be an early warning sign of MS.

5. Balance problems or dizziness
Those who suffer from MS often find themselves with vertigo. This is a sudden lack of balance or a sudden burst of dizziness. This feeling most frequently occurs when a person goes from a sitting to a standing position. It can put you at risk for falls and further injuries. It is important to always hold on to something when you go to stand and to stand up slowly. This can help you maintain your balance and help reduce your risk of falls.

6. Bladder issues
Another common problem includes the inability to hold your urine or the need to urinate very frequently. This is an ongoing problem that will likely get worse as you age and as your disease progresses. While it likely starts with urination problems, it can also include constipation and diarrhea.

7. Cognitive problems
If you find yourself forgetting things more than a couple times a week, you may wonder if you have dementia. However, if you find yourself forgetting things and having one or more of these other symptoms it could be a sign of multiple sclerosis. Cognitive problems may also include language concerns, the inability to properly formulate sentences, logic issues, and a short attention span. Cognitive concerns will likely affect each person differently.

Treatments for MS attacks

There is no cure for multiple sclerosis. MS treatments typically aim to speed the recovery from attacks, manage symptoms, and slow the progression of the disease. There are several disease modifying therapies (DMTs) for relapsing-remitting MS and medications such as Ocervus, Mayzent, Aubagio, Ponvory, and Kesimpta that can help reduce nerve inflammation.