Your nervous system controls almost every action in your body, from moving to breathing, and everything in between. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that attacks the nervous system, causing damage to the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Because the symptoms of MS are often unpredictable, it can be difficult to recognize the early signs. To help you understand what to look for, we spoke with Nida Laurin, MD, a neurologist with Banner Brain & Spine.
The challenge of identifying early MS symptoms
“The early signs of multiple sclerosis can be hard to identify,” said Dr. Laurin. “I often tell my patients that they know their bodies best. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to pay attention to it.” Tracking changes you notice and sharing that information with your health care provider can help ensure a timely diagnosis.
Dr. Laurin also noted that “your brain is remarkable. Even as MS affects your nervous system, your brain might find ways to work around the damage. This can cause symptoms to come and go, which can be confusing.” This is why paying attention to unusual sensations and tracking symptoms over time is so important.
Common early symptoms of multiple sclerosis
The symptoms of MS can vary from person to person, and because they can come and go, many people delay seeking medical attention. However, Dr. Laurin stressed the importance of not ignoring potential signs, as early intervention can make a significant difference in managing the disease. Here are some common early symptoms of MS:
- Numbness: You might feel numbness or a tingling sensation in your limbs or face, especially in one side of the body.
- Blurred or double vision: Vision problems are common in MS and can happen when the optic nerves are affected.
- Dizziness: A feeling of dizziness or vertigo, where you feel off-balance or lightheaded, can be an early sign.
- "Pins and needles" sensations: This sensation, often referred to as paresthesia, can be felt in the hands, feet, or other parts of the body.
- Weakness and fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, especially if it affects one side of the body, is another early symptom.
Dr. Laurin pointed out that the development of these symptoms can vary widely. “Some people may experience early signs much later than others. What might seem like a typical MS symptom could appear much sooner or much later than expected,” she explained.
Why early symptoms can be confusing
Because MS symptoms can appear suddenly and disappear just as quickly, it can be easy to dismiss them as temporary or unrelated to a serious condition. This can cause delays in seeking medical care. Dr. Laurin emphasized that it’s vital to keep track of unusual symptoms, especially if they come and go over time.
“Symptoms may seem to improve and then return. This can be frustrating and confusing for those affected,” Dr. Laurin said. However, early recognition of symptoms can be vital in preventing the disease from progressing more quickly.
Next steps if you notice early MS symptoms
If you or a loved one experiences any of the symptoms listed above, it’s important to consult with a health care provider as soon as possible. Early detection can help with diagnosis and ensure you have the necessary treatment to manage the condition.
Dr. Laurin encourages patients to trust their instincts and seek care if something feels wrong. “Even if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are related to MS, it’s always a good idea to reach out to a doctor,” she advised. "The sooner we can identify the condition, the better we can manage its impact."
Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health provider near you.
Recommended reading
- Does Vertigo Have Your Head Spinning?
- Restless Leg Syndrome or Neuropathy? How to Tell the Difference
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Exercise: Benefits, Types and Safety
Content in this article was updated on January 22, 2025.
