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There are lots of possible symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Everyone with the condition is affected differently.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
Symptoms may come (called "flare-ups" or "relapses") and go (called "remissions"), and may get worse over time.
These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different conditions.
Having them does not definitely mean you have multiple sclerosis (MS). But it's important to get them checked by a GP.
These could be signs of a stroke and need urgent medical attention.
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
If your GP thinks you could have multiple sclerosis (MS) they'll refer you to a brain and nerve specialist (neurologist).
At your appointment the neurologist will ask about your symptoms.
There is no single test to diagnose MS.
Tests you may have include:
There are 3 main types of multiple sclerosis (MS). They affect everyone differently.
Your neurologist may need to monitor your symptoms and test results for some time to diagnose which type you have.
| Type | How symptoms might affect you |
|---|---|
|
Type
Relapsing remitting |
How symptoms might affect you
You have flare-ups of symptoms where they get worse (relapse) and then go away or get better (remission). Over time, this type often develops into secondary progressive MS. |
|
Type
Secondary progressive |
How symptoms might affect you
Your symptoms are there all the time, and get slowly worse. This type of MS can come after relapsing remitting MS. |
|
Type
Primary progressive |
How symptoms might affect you
Your symptoms slowly get worse over time. You do not have periods when they go away or get better (remission). This is less common than the other types of MS. |
There is currently no cure for multiple sclerosis (MS). But there are treatments that can slow the progression of MS and help ease symptoms.
The type of treatment will depend on the type of MS you have and your symptoms. You'll probably need different treatments over time.
You'll be supported by different healthcare professionals. This may include a specialist MS nurse, a neurologist (brain and nerve specialist), physiotherapist and occupational therapist.
Treatments you may have include:
You'll also be offered treatment and support for the symptoms of MS. Every person's needs will be different depending on their symptoms.
Support you might need may include:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is different for everyone. No one can predict how much your MS might affect you.
For some people, MS only has a small impact on daily life which means you can continue with your work and usual activities.
Others have more severe symptoms which can have a much bigger impact.
MS symptoms can affect mobility, and you may need to adapt your life by using mobility aids, reducing working hours or needing more help around the home.
MS treatments are improving, so if you're diagnosed with MS today you can expect a better quality of life than was possible before.
Most people with MS live into old age although life expectancy, on average, is a few years less than the general population.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) happens when your immune system attacks your brain and nerves. It's not clear what causes this.
You might be more likely to get MS if:
Multiple sclerosis (MS) can be a difficult condition to live with, both physically and emotionally.
As well as support from your doctor and MS nurse, you may find it helpful to get support from other people with MS, either at a local support group or online.
There are also national charities that can offer support and information about MS.
Information and support for anyone affected by MS.
Information and support for anyone affected by MS.
Information and emotional support for anyone affected by MS.
