If you have been diagnosed with MS or have a loved one who is suffering from it, you are familiar with the unpredictability of the condition; the highs and lows of living with this disorder are incomprehensible to those who are not affected. Although you may have grown accustomed to your altered situation, that doesn’t necessarily make it any simpler. Gaining knowledge of the potential extra obstacles that may arise and how to effectively manage them can have a major influence on the comfort of yourself and those around you.
8 Early Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis People in Their 20s and 30s Should Know
1. Fatigue
Most people with Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.) experience an extreme level of exhaustion that does not subside with sleep, known as fatigue, which shows up in up to 95% of patients, as the Cleveland Clinic reports. It is common to be one of the initial indicators of M.S., even though it has nothing to do with the severity of the illness and can happen during any point of the disease. The exact source of exhaustion related to M.S. is still a puzzle, but there are a few plausible explanations for it. The presence of M.S. has been linked to an overactive immune system, where a person may have an increase in cytokines, which are chemical messengers. This could cause a constant feeling of exhaustion, similar to the feeling of having a virus. It is proposed that individuals with M.S. require more effort to accomplish regular tasks since they have to employ more areas of their brain than those who do not suffer from the condition.
Dr. Vollmer advises any young female with persistent and unexplained tiredness that hinders her from doing everyday activities to get an MRI. It is one of the many diagnostic techniques employed when it comes to Multiple Sclerosis.
2. Depression
Depression can be a symptom of M.S., in addition to feeling tired. M.S. patients can be affected by depression for a variety of reasons, according to Abbey Hughes, Ph.D., who is a clinical psychologist and assistant professor in the Johns Hopkins Medicine Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Neuropsychology. Initially, Multiple Sclerosis can cause a direct impact on the brain. Hughes states that when someone has Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.), the inflammation caused by the chronic condition can interfere with the neurotransmitter systems in the body, which is linked to depression. In contrast, depression can be a typical response to other parts of the illness, like trying to understand unexplainable symptoms with no solution.
It can be difficult to recognize depression due to its prevalence as an indication of other health issues and as its own medical condition. This age range is often a period of transformation and evolution which, on its own, can cause difficulties in regards to mental health for women. Therefore, it can be beneficial to view depression as an indicator of M.S. when it appears in combination with other signs on the list.
3. Sleep disturbances
In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in 2014, it was found that out of 2,300 people with multiple sclerosis (M.S.), approximately 70% had a positive screening result for one or more sleeping disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea (where breathing ceases multiple times during sleep), and restless leg syndrome.
Hughes suggests that while neurological damage caused by M.S. can lead to sleep issues such as apnea, there are probably behavioral components involved as well. Hughes points out that if someone is exhausted due to Multiple Sclerosis, they may try to catch up on sleep during the day or consume too much caffeine, which can have an adverse effect on their nighttime rest.
4. Numbness or tingling
The feelings experienced are a result of the demyelination in the brain, as we discussed before, which is a major component of Multiple Sclerosis. The majority of these occur in the legs, however, they can also be felt in the arms, torso, or facial area. Be aware of pain, burning, or itching in addition to numbness or tingling, as advised by the Merck Manual.
5. Weakness and motor control problems
Muscle dysfunction is a big part of Multiple Sclerosis, due to nerve damage, and this can show up in different forms, like weakness, tightness, or abnormal, uncontrolled movements like spasms. The Institute of Medicine’s Committee on Multiple Sclerosis has reported that during the early stages of M.S., weakness tends to become more apparent when an individual is active, however it may become more apparent as the illness advances. It is important to pay attention to any unfamiliar symptoms that feel different than your usual state of health. Hughes stresses that if you discover something you usually would not be able to lift becomes easier to lift, or if you are unable to do physical activity for as long as before, you should seek medical advice.
6. Vision problems
When discussing M.S., issues with vision usually fall into two categories: afferent visual pathway ailments, which have an effect on the perception of the world, and efferent visual pathway problems, which affect the coordination of the eyes. The Mayo Clinic has stated that one of the first signs of Multiple Sclerosis is optic neuritis, which involves inflammation causing harm to the optic nerve and resulting in an afferent visual pathway symptom. Generally, this type of condition impacts only one eye and causes discomfort when the eye moves, as well as a short-term lack of sight. Conversely, a malfunction in the nerve pathways that transmit visual signals away from the brain could lead to symptoms such as misaligned eyes, resulting in double vision, or involuntary, recurrent movement of the eyes.
No matter what is happening with your eyes, be aware of signs such as eye discomfort, decreased or lost sight, loss of peripheral vision, inability to distinguish colors, seeing flashes of light, double vision, or blurred or wavering vision.
7. Bladder dysfunction
M.S. can have a negative impact on the neural pathways responsible for bladder control, causing a range of difficulties that can have a negative effect on many parts of life, and can also cause a great deal of embarrassment, according to Hughes. The Cleveland Clinic states that bladder dysfunction can be exhibited through a lack of control over urination, a sense of immediacy when needing to use the restroom, a frequent urge to go, or difficulty initiating urination.
8. Sexual dysfunction
M.S. can cause difficulty in achieving orgasm due to a lack of sensory feedback to the spinal cord, as Dr. Vollmer points out. It should be noted that the psychological effects of M.S. symptoms, such as depression, exhaustion, and bladder problems, can have an effect on an individual’s libido and appetite for sex, claims Hughes.
Managing Daily Life and Complications of MS
It is essential to monitor your symptoms and be aware of how your body is feeling if you have MS and you want to stay healthy. Exerting too much effort over a prolonged period of time can result in an increase in indicators or a flare-up, or even a relapse. Sticking to a healthy routine can be difficult when people with MS face obstacles such as limited mobility, financial difficulties, or even depression, that make it challenging to follow a healthy lifestyle. Identifying what is beneficial to you and what isn’t can help you live a satisfactory life with Multiple Sclerosis.
Diet for MS
The effects of food on different long-term illnesses is being explored increasingly. Although certain dietary changes may provide symptom relief to those with MS, there is no proof that any certain type of diet can change the progression of the disease.
It would be beneficial to talk to your doctor about any specific dietary modifications you are interested in making; certain diets that have become trendy may not be the best choice for people with multiple sclerosis. Presently, the diet advised for MS is comparable to what is suggested for all: ample amounts of fiber, fruits, and vegetables, with restrictions on the quantities of unwholesome fats and sugar consumed. It is essential for all individuals to maintain a balanced weight, but this is especially relevant for those with Multiple Sclerosis. Being overweight can lead to feeling tired and down, and there have been connections between obesity during adolescence and a greater likelihood of Multiple Sclerosis in adulthood.
Exercising With MS
Despite the exhaustion and soreness that can be associated with multiple sclerosis, engaging in physical activity can enhance mobility and create a feeling of wellness. A physical therapist or someone with expertise in exercise can provide tailored exercises to help with foot drop, walking, balance, and transitioning from sitting to standing.
You can boost your power, suppleness, and physical fitness when you suffer from MS. Working out with the help of a specialist can help make sure that you don’t become too sore or tired from exercising. Having a regular exercise routine that increases your strength and endurance can actually help reduce tiredness over time.
It is essential that individuals with MS take precautions to avoid becoming too warm when exercising, as an increase in temperature can make MS symptoms worse. Three different strategies to prevent overheating during exercise are to work out indoors in a temperature-controlled environment, to do physical activity outside when it’s not too warm, and to take breaks regularly to let your body cool down.
Managing Your Prescriptions for MS
When it comes to treating Multiple Sclerosis, there is now a wide array of medication to choose from – 20 different disease-altering treatments have been approved. Once you obtain a diagnosis and you and your doctor decide on the most effective medication for your condition, you should begin the treatment promptly.
Dr. Michael Hutchinson, an associate clinical professor of neurology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, states that a disease-modifying therapy can reduce the relapse rate of those with multiple sclerosis, regardless of the rate of progression, by as much as 50 percent.
Your doctor will let you know which type of treatment is best for you and show you how to properly take your medication. It can take a while to figure out if the medication is effective or if you should try a different one. In many instances, it is necessary to have regular blood tests to see if your body is responding and processing the medication in a suitable way.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Multiple Sclerosis
A lot of individuals with MS look for natural solutions and alternative treatments to complement their treatment for controlling the sickness. Ellen M. advises that you speak with your physician prior to taking any new vitamins, herbs, or supplements. Dr. Mowry, an associate professor of neurology at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, is a specialist in treating individuals with Multiple Sclerosis.
- Vitamin D. There is evidence and several ongoing studies that show a connection between vitamin D and MS. If you haven’t had your vitamin D levels tested, ask your doctor; they may recommend a supplement if you’re deficient. Too much vitamin D can be toxic and cause serious side effects, so it’s best to take it under the supervision of a doctor who can monitor your level.
- Ginkgo biloba. An extract that comes from the leaves of the ginkgo tree, ginkgo biloba is taken to improve brain function and memory. Although study results on the effectiveness of the herb for MS memory loss have been mixed, there is evidence that it can help with fatigue.
- Ginseng. This herb failed to improve fatigue in MS in a six-week study and caused some study participants to experience insomnia.
- Green tea. Although there’s no proof that green tea helps MS symptoms, it is rich in antioxidants and other healthy compounds.
Essential oils are extracted from plants through distillation methods that employ steam or cold pressing. The extracted material is blended with a base oil to create the final product. Despite some small studies suggesting potential advantages for both mental health and intellectual functioning, most of these experiments were done on animals rather than humans. It is recommended to consult with a physician before trying any type of alternative treatment.
Turmeric, a popular seasoning used in a variety of dishes and a major component of curry powder, is derived from the subterranean stems of a plant in the ginger family. The rhizomes can be pulverized and dried out to produce a powder, which can then be encapsulated or made into extracts. Many tests have been conducted on animals that point to turmeric having anti-inflammatory effects, yet most professionals believe that further research is needed before it can be suggested as a substitute remedy for Multiple Sclerosis sufferers.
Apple cider vinegar is created by the process of fermentation with apple juice; the tart flavor is caused by the acetic acid present. This probiotic has Vitamin B and antioxidants that come from plants known as polyphenols. Research has indicated that it may be beneficial in managing gastrointestinal issues, though there are no studies specifically focused on its effects on individuals with Multiple Sclerosis. Inform your physician if you are exhibiting a symptom or would like to achieve a particular health goal and feel that apple cider vinegar may be of assistance. They can assist you in deciding if apple cider vinegar is the most suitable option.
Multiple Sclerosis Is Treatable, and the Earlier, the Better
Dr. Vollmer emphasizes the importance of starting M.S. treatment right away since its goal is to prevent the condition from worsening.
Typically, there are three types of treatment: medications that regulate the immune system, drugs that address particular symptoms, and changes in lifestyle. Regular physical activity has been shown to strengthen, tone and improve balance and coordination in people with mild to moderate Multiple Sclerosis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Hughes states that there are treatment options, such as physical therapy and psychological rehabilitation, which provide people with the strategies necessary to cope with the physical and psychological difficulties that accompany symptoms of M.S.
Discovering what choices are accessible to you in regards to treatment, particularly if you just have the early indicators of M.S., can be quite perplexing. Dr. Vollmer emphasizes that it is essential to obtain a second opinion to ensure that all of your choices are understood.