Overview

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary by individual, depending on the area of the brain or spinal cord affected, and occur over time. The symptoms are caused by demyelination--destruction of the insulating myelin sheath that protects nerve fibers and helps to conduct the electrical impulses that control muscle action and sensation. When demyelination occurs in nerves that send messages to muscles, it causes problems with mobility (motor symptoms). Demyelination along nerves that carry sensory messages to the brain causes disturbances in sensation (sensory symptoms). The most common early symptoms of MS are tingling, numbness, loss of balance, weakness, and blurred or double vision. Less common symptoms include slurred speech and lack of coordination.

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Symptoms fall into three categories and can also be characterized by the bodily functions they affect. This section contains more information on:

Categories of symptoms

Bodily functions affected