Multiple sclerosis: 15 warning signs you might have the condition

Although MS can occur in young children and older odults, the condition most commonly affects people between the ages of 20 and 50.

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a nervous system disease which affects the brain and spinal cord. MS is a lifelong condition that can sometimes cause serious disability.

The exact cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown. However, the underlying mechanism is thought to be either destruction by the immune system or failure of the myelin-producing cells. It can also be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Although MS can occur in young children and older adults, the condition most commonly affects people between the ages of 20 and 50.

While the symptoms of multiple sclerosis may vary from person to person, some of the common warning signs include:

• Vision problems
• Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Muscle spasms, stiffness and weakness
• Balance difficulties
• Bladder or bowel problems
• Pain in parts of the body
• Tremor
• Breathing problems
• Problems with thinking, learning and planning
• Depression and anxiety
• Speech problems
• Sexual problems

Unfortunately, there's no cure for multiple sclerosis, but treatments can help control the condition. It's important to recognize the early signs of the condition and pay attention to them. Early detection may help prevent multiple sclerosis from progressing quickly as well as have a positive impact on the treatment.