Symptoms of MS

There is no real difference between MS symptoms in women and men. Also, two people with MS rarely have the same symptoms. Many people experience a variety of symptoms before a firm diagnosis is made. If you believe your symptoms may indicate MS, consult a doctor.

Multiple sclerosis can cause a wide variety of different symptoms. They may even mimic other diseases, because:

Different parts of the brain control different neurological functions
The spinal cord transmits impulses to and from the brain in a variety of ways
As MS lesions can affect different parts of the brain and spinal cord, symptoms vary markedly from person to person

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The most common symptom of MS is profound fatigue, but others may include:

Diminished vision
Pain
Feelings of hot or cold
Pins and needles
Numbness
Sensations resembling electric shocks
Depression
Heightened sensation
Weakness/tremors/dragging leg
Gait problems
Speech disorders
Loss of balance/falling
Altered hearing/taste

You can find more information below about these symptoms and what treatments and actions are available to improve them.

At Overcoming MS, we support evidence-based lifestyle changes which, over time, can help you with your MS symptoms and/or with your mental well-being. Make sure you sign up for our newsletter for the latest resources and news to help you manage the impact of your MS and your symptoms.

MS Gait | Walking (Gait) Problems & MS

If you are finding that you have walking (gait) difficulties as a result of MS, and this is changing the way you walk, read on to discover what you can do to take back control.

MS Numbness, Tingling & Pins and Needles

If you have MS and you are experiencing tingling and numbness find out what you can do to feel better.

MS Cognitive Symptoms & Impairments: What you need to know

Do you feel like a word is on the tip of your tongue but you can't quite remember it? People with MS can experience cognitive problems and symptoms. There are lots of strategies to help you take control, become more organised and more confident in yourself.

Bladder Spasms & MS: What you need to know

MS can cause bladder spasms, but fortunately there are management and treatment options so that you can feel better including making positive lifestyle changes.

MS & vertigo: what you need to know

As a person with MS you may feel off-balance or lightheaded sometimes – much less often you can have the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning (vertigo). Read on to find out what action you can immediately take to feel better.

MS & Bowel Problems: what you need to know

People with MS often suffer from bowel problems and symptoms, but the good news is that there are actions you can take now to manage them and make life much easier. Read on to find out more.

MS Sexual Dysfunction & Problems

MS sexual problems can be hard to talk about, but they are actually very common with the general population too. Read on to discover some treatment options that will help to improve your sex life and wellbeing.

MS hearing loss: Everything you need to know

MS hearing loss is very rare, but it is possible. If you are experiencing hearing problems which you think may be related to your MS, read on to find out more.

MS & Swallowing Problems: Everything you need to know

Swallowing problems when you have MS can cause anxiety, but rest assured that there are treatments available. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this MS symptom.

MS Foot Drop: Everything you need to know

If you think you have MS foot drop read on to find out everything you need to know and how we can support you.

MS Tremors: Everything you need to know

MS tremors are a common symptom of MS, so find out everything you need to know right here. There are many ways of coping and leading your best life.

MS hug: Everything you need to know

The MS hug can be a frightening and painful experience, but there are ways to deal with it. It can range from a mild ache to intense pain in the chest or ribs, anywhere between the waist and neck.

Heavy legs & MS: Everything you need to know

Weakness and fatigue are common MS symptoms and can make your legs feel heavy and uncomfortable. We explain everything you need to know including ways of helping ease this symptom.

MS & Nausea: Everything you need to know

Many people with MS experience nausea due to dizziness and vertigo or MS medications. We explain how the OMS Program can help.

MS & Anxiety – symptoms, treatment and more

Anxiety disorders are common and can be even more so in people that have received a diagnosis of MS. Stress and anxious feelings can affect the body’s ability to fight disease, so it’s important to learn ways of managing anxiety levels as much as possible. The Overcoming MS Program dedicates a whole step to mindfulness and meditation as a clinically proven way of reducing stress.

MS & memory loss – symptoms, treatment and more

About half of people with MS have some cognitive problems, including memory loss, often these problems are mild and don’t interrupt your daily life. Read on to find out more and techniques to help you live with memory loss.

MS & Fatigue: Overcoming Tiredness

If you are experiencing MS fatigue we have some information about what it is and tips on how you can manage it to feel better.

Depression and MS: Everything you need to know

Depression is a low mood that lasts for a long time, and affects your everyday life. The severity can vary from mild to severe. The challenges presented by multiple sclerosis can increase the risk of depression.

MS eye symptoms & vision problems

Take a look at our MS symptoms guide to find out what changes you can easily make to prevent MS vision problems.

MS Spasticity – what you need to know

Gain back control over MS muscle spasms and spasticity with management strategies and lifestyle changes – you can make a difference.