MS: Symptoms
The symptoms of MS are highly variable from person to person, depending on what part of the nervous system is affected. Some symptoms that may occur include:

• Vision pain or loss - Optic Neuritis - An inflammation of the optic nerve, that controls vision. Over a period of 1 or 2 days blurred vision develops and there may be pain behind the eye which increases when the eye is turned.
  
• Loss of Muscle Strength in Arms and Legs - Loss of muscular strength can range from reduced dexterity to actual paralysis. This occurs in both relapsing forms and progressive forms. It occurs more frequently in the legs than in the arms. Depending on severity, a cane, crutches or wheelchair may be needed.
  
• Numbness or tingling - This can include a "numb" feeling, burning, "pins and needles" sensations or prickly feeling in various parts of the body. Sometimes it's in just an arm, or in patches all over the body, or sometimes the lower half of the body from a particular point such as the navel. These symptoms can be painful.
  
• Pain - MS can involve one of the nerves of the face becoming painful, known as trigeminal neuralgia. Loss of muscular power can cause overstrain and pain.
  
• Loss of Bladder/Bowel Control - Patients may have retention or difficulty urinating, or more often, bladder urge incontinence. Some people, because they move around less, can be troubled with constipation.
  
• Sexual Problems - Men may find it difficult to get or maintain an erection. Women can experience a loss of sensitivity, pain or reduction of lubrication.
  
• Loss of Balance/Coordination - Due to disturbances in the cerebellum (which controls and corrects all movement) patients may experience difficulty grasping small objects, often accompanied by a hand tremor. With loss of balance, patients may experience difficulty walking.
  
• Fatigue - Can often last a few months during which energy is used up every day after just a little effort.
  
• Decline in Cognitive Function - Memory, speed of thinking and concentration can be affected.
  
• Mood Changes - Depression is sometimes linked directly to MS.