Multiple sclerosis (often abbreviated to simply MS) is an increasingly common health condition estimated to affect as much as 2.5 million people worldwide. While there is no cure, symptoms can be managed if the condition is diagnosed early – and there’s a lot of research being put into new treatments that could make life with multiple sclerosis easier for those who have been diagnosed.
Onset of the condition is known to be sudden, and can start at any point in someone’s life – so a close eye should be kept on factors such as a family history of the disease or an increase in symptoms mentioned on this list.
If you suspect MS, make an appointment with your doctor and seek the help of local support groups in your area that can be of great use.
Here are some of the symptoms and early signs of MS crucial to catch in time.
1. Balance/Dizziness
One of the first signs that you could be at risk for MS is a lack of balance or sudden dizziness when you don’t expect it to happen. There are many other things that could cause this, including problems with your ears or issues with your hips, but you should take note when it’s combined with any of the symptoms that are mentioned in this piece – especially if it keeps happening to you.
This lack of balance can be a dangerous symptom in itself, and could be the cause behind a very nasty fall – or a fatal accident. Even when it isn’t caused by MS, this is a symptom that you should get checked out if it’s happening to you often.
Visit your doctor if you are able to combine several of the associated symptoms on this list at the same time, especially if you have an associated family history of MS and can consider yourself at a higher risk of being diagnosed yourself.
