Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the central nervous system. It disrupts the flow of information between the body and the brain. The disease progresses as time goes on and can affect your ability to see, talk, or walk. The symptoms and how they occur are often unpredictable. Those with MS can treat the symptoms of the disease.

You may wonder if you or a loved one suffers from MS. Here are common early warning signs to look out for:

1. Vision problems

In MS, vision issues are one of the most common symptoms. This occurs because inflammation affects the optic nerve in the eye. It can cause double vision, blurriness, or loss of vision. People that generally have clear vision might not notice vision troubles right away because the process can be slow. Sufferers might experience pain when they look to the side or up in addition to vision dysfunction.

2. Tingling and numbness

The most common early warning sign of MS appears with tingling or numbness sensations. Commonly affected sites include the face, legs, arms, and fingers. MS affects the nerves in your spinal cord and your brain. These nerves are responsible for sending messages and signals throughout the body. Sometimes, this causes the signals to become erratic or not send any at all. When a signal isn’t sent it causes numbness or tingling.

3. Pains and spasms

Muscle stiffness and involuntary spasms are common in people with MS. Sufferers might experience only stiffness in the muscles or joints, while others may have uncontrollable and painful jerking in the extremities. Most people will notice this happen in the legs but other areas like the back are affected too. One study conducted by the National MS Society found that half of those with MS experienced chronic pain.

4. Weakness or fatigue

About 80% of people experiencing early symptoms of MS have unexplained fatigue and weakness. Chronic fatigue appears seemingly out of nowhere and lasts for weeks before it improves. Weakness occurs in the legs first. Chronic fatigue occurs when the nerves in the spinal column begin to deteriorate.

5. Balance problems or dizziness

People with MS often have trouble with their coordination and balance. This leads to mobility issues or problems with your gait. Sufferers feel symptoms of vertigo like lightheadedness, dizziness, and spinning. Typically, it occurs when you stand up.

6. Bladder issues

Up to 80% of those diagnosed with MS suffer from bladder dysfunction. Some people have trouble holding their bladder or feel a strong urge to urinate. Others may make frequent trips to the bathroom. Bladder-related symptoms are usually treatable or managed. A small percentage of those with MS might suffer from constipation, diarrhea, or uncontrollable bowels.

7. Cognitive problems

Over half of those that suffer from MS develop cognitive dysfunction. These dysfunctions can range from memory problems, trouble with language, the inability to stay organized to something like a shorter attention span. Emotional problems are often reported such as depression or anxiety.