Multiple sclerosis is a neurological condition that leads to abnormalities in the brain and spine functionalities. Also referred to as MS, it leads to permanent disabilities and this chronic condition can only be managed with the right medications and treatment. Here are some of the early signs of MS that you should be aware of.

1. Numbness
One of the early problems with MS is brain-body coordination. Sometimes, signals are not sent at all or sometimes they are sent late. When signals are not sent from the brain to the body, the result is numbness. Tingling sensations in the legs, hands, and face are also considered one of the early signs of MS.

2. Spasms
Spasms are involuntary muscle contractions that can happen in different parts of the body. If you are experiencing involuntary painful jerking motion of the arms, legs, or on one side of the face, then do talk to your doctor right away about it. It could be an early sign of the condition.

3. Incontinence
Incontinence is the inability of the bladder to hold urine. It is very common in the elderly. However, when you have MS, urine incontinence could be one of the early signs you should be aware of. Some people also experience loss of bowel control and diarrhea or constipation.

4. Cognitive disturbances
Another of the early signs of MS that you should be aware of is cognitive disturbances. Cognitive function is the mental ability of a person to reason, think, remember, and solve problems. Abnormalities in the brain can lead to lowered cognitive abilities or problems in normal cognitive functioning. Such individuals may have:

• Shorter attention span
• Problems in understanding and speaking
• Memory loss
• Problems in following rules

5. Vision problems
For many individuals, the first sign of this neurological disorder is vision problems. This could be in the form of some kind of disturbance or any other issue. Common signs of these are:

• Loss of vision (could be temporary or permanent)
• Color blindness (inability to distinguish between different colors)
• Pain in the eye
• Flashes of light blocking view when you move eyes around the socket
• Double vision

6. Mobility issues
Mobility issues slowly start showing up as the other early signs of MS are identified. Most people with MS will have a problem moving around independently. Here are some problems you can face early on.

• Coordination problems (Not able to take steps confidently)
• Imbalance while walking (Increases the risk of falls)
• Tremors while walking or moving
• Clumsiness
• Sudden bouts of dizziness

All these early signs of MS have to be identified during the initial stages to start treatment. Some people may have very subtle early symptoms that can get ignored until the disease has progressed to the next stage. If you notice any of the above symptoms in yourself or those in your family, get tested right away.