Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms may range from mild to severe and may include:

Numbness or tingling in the face or limbs
Impaired vision in one or both eyes, including:
- Blurred vision
- Double vision
- Loss of vision
Eye pain
Fatigue
Dizziness
Muscle stiffness
Muscle spasms
Muscle weakness
Incoordination or falling
Trouble walking or maintaining balance
Weakness in one or more limbs
Bladder problems including:
- Urgency
- Hesitancy
- Incomplete emptying
- Incontinence
Bowel problems, including constipation
Sexual dysfunction
Slurred speech
Difficulty swallowing
Forgetfulness, memory loss, and confusion
Difficulty concentrating or solving problems
Depression

Factors that may trigger or worsen symptoms include:

Heat including:
- Hot weather
- Hot baths or showers
- Fever
Overexertion
Infection

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.

Tests may include:

MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the brain and spinal chord
Evoked potentials—a test that records the electrical responses evoked after a sensory stimulus
Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)—removal of a small amount of fluid from around the spinal cord to check for white blood cells, antibodies, and proteins

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.