Yes, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) wears people out significantly, primarily through debilitating fatigue, known as lassitude, which is physical and mental exhaustion far beyond normal tiredness, affecting up to 80% of people with MS and impacting daily life. This exhaustion stems from nerve damage in the brain and spinal cord requiring extra energy, alongside other MS symptoms like pain or poor sleep, creating a cycle of inactivity and worsening fatigue, though strategies like pacing and gentle exercise can help manage it.
In multiple sclerosis, the protective coating on the nerve fibers is damaged and may eventually be destroyed. This protective coating is called myelin. Depending on where the nerve damage happens, MS can affect vision, sensation, coordination, movement, and bladder or bowel control.
Many people with MS live for as long as the general population. Studies on the effect of MS on life expectancy have been carried out in several countries. The results from these studies suggest that, on average, having MS reduces your life expectancy by six to seven years. This gap is closing all the time.
It's important to remember that there are also secondary causes of fatigue that are very common, results of having MS. Many symptoms of MS negatively affect sleep that in turn makes fatigue worse. Anxiety, spasticity, pain, and urination problems can reduce the amount and quality of sleep in a person with MS.
As we age, our brain's ability to adapt and reroute messages around areas of MS nerve damage (known as neuroplasticity) gradually reduces. This can contribute to reduced recovery from relapses and the increasing disability we see in progressive MS.
The average age of MS diagnosis is 34 years old, and the symptoms of MS typically start between the ages of 20 and 40. However, in the US, multiple sclerosis is more prevalent in people aged 55 to 64 than in any other age group.
Tests used to diagnose MS may include: MRI, which can reveal areas of MS on the brain and spinal cord. These areas are called lesions. A contrast dye may be given through an IV to highlight lesions that show the disease is in an active phase.
Some of the most common symptoms include: feeling extremely tired (fatigue) problems with your eyes or your vision, such as blurred vision or eye pain. numbness or a tingling feeling in different parts of the body.
There are no medications approved by the FDA for the treatment of MS fatigue. The most commonly used off-label symptomatic medications are amantadine and modafinil.
MS is not considered a terminal illness and it's very rare for someone to die directly because of MS. But MS is a lifelong condition and if someone is severely affected, the risk of dying from a complication related to MS (like an infection) is greater.
For those with MS, avoiding too much exercise is a big concern. Too much activity can cause fatigue and worsen symptoms. It's important to listen to your body and know when you've done too much. Pacing activities and taking breaks helps manage energy.
How do you get MS? MS isn't directly passed on. While over 200 genes might affect your chances of getting MS, genetics only play a part. Having someone else in your family with MS increases your risk slightly, but the chances are still low.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disorder that affects the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system).
Some people with MS lose sensation in their tongue. Some health care providers refer to MS-related tongue issues as “MS tongue.” Loss of sensation or numbness can make it difficult to move your tongue when you speak, chew, or swallow. Tongue numbness may also diminish sense of taste.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
You can spend it on whatever you need, such as paying for support to remain independent during relapses, or to help with extra costs such as heating, transport or help around the house. Some people with MS assume they can't get PIP because they're 'not disabled enough'.
The exact cause of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is unknown, but it's triggered by a combination of genetic susceptibility, environmental factors (like low Vitamin D, infections, smoking, and stress), and immune system dysfunction that leads the body to attack its own nervous system. Triggers that can worsen existing MS include heat, infections, stress, lack of sleep, and childbirth, while factors like smoking, obesity, and low sun exposure increase risk or severity.
For many, fatigue is considered to be the single most debilitating symptom, surpassing pain and even physical disability. Fatigue also imposes significant socioeconomic consequences, including loss of work hours and in some instances, loss of employment.
Researchers at Michigan State University suggest that a blood test can distinguish patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) from people with other neurological conditions, according to a recent study published in EBioMedicine.
If your MS symptoms feel worse at night, you are not alone. Many people find their MS is worse or harder to cope with at night time. It can disrupt your sleep and play havoc with your energy levels, concentration and emotions the next day.
What are the early symptoms of multiple sclerosis?
Types of fatigue
Primary fatigue is a type of fatigue caused directly by MS. It happens because the brain and spinal cord have to work around damaged areas to send messages. This takes more effort and energy, so people with MS often feel very tired, even when doing everyday things.
So in certain cases, your provider may do a mental health screening before or after a neurological exam. A neurological examination typically assesses movement, sensation, hearing and speech, vision, coordination, and balance. It may also test mental status, mood, and behavior.
More specifically, a brain or head MRI can show if there are any abnormalities in your brain or the surrounding tissues, including, but not limited to: Inflammation and swelling. Structural issues. Abnormal growths or masses.
Your MS specialist will most likely be a neurologist. Neurologists are either Doctors of Medicine (MDs) or Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) who have completed residencies in neurology. They'll have a broad understanding of diseases that involve your nervous system (such as MS).