Double vision, my first visible symptom, was the key to my diagnosis in 2001. The optic nerves in both eyes are damaged, and the effects linger still. Although having double vision is annoying, I feel lucky because it led to a speedy diagnosis so I could begin treatment to slow the disease's progression.
I also have weakness on the left side of my body. Some days, I have trouble typing. Weakness in my left leg and compromised balance cause me to rely on a cane for support when walking. But the most debilitating symptom, which also is most common among those with MS, is fatigue. "MS fatigue" is unlike normal fatigue. Much of the time, something as simple as breathing is an effort.
Click this link to read the rest of my story and the three important lessons MS has taught me:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2868512/living_with_multiple_sclerosis_lessons.html?cat=5