Multiple Sclerosis Slideshow Pictures Medical Illustrations of the MS Image Collection Take the MS Quiz

Medical Author:

Fernando Dangond, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

View Full Profile

What Are the Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis?

Perhaps the most common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) is sensory disturbance, which manifests as tingling or numbness sensations, throughout the body.

Visual disturbances are also among the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis and include the following:

• Blurred or hazy vision



• Color perception alteration

Vision loss may occur because of the development of optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve). In a typical case of optic neuritis, the person with multiple sclerosis experiences ocular pain with eye movement.

Other common symptoms of multiple sclerosis include the following:

• Loss of balance and fine motor skills



• Facial pain or weakness



• Vertigo (a spinning sensation)



• Limb weakness or paralysis



• Impaired control of bladder or bowel function



• Fatigue



• Depression



• Memory loss

Individuals with advanced multiple sclerosis lose the ability to walk and may become bedridden, requiring assistance with most activities.