Numbness is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) and can affect daily activities. Medications can help reduce symptoms, and avoiding stressors can help. Numbness is not an indication that the disease is getting worse, and early treatment can help manage symptoms effectively.
Numbness in multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common symptom of MS patients and is characterized by a numbness or tingling sensation in the arms, legs or face. Although described as “numbness,” this symptom can manifest with a wide range of sensations. Tingling, tingling sensations, vibration-like sensations, and burning are all common. These physical sensations often accompany any numbness, which commonly feels similar to when the hands or feet “fall asleep,” but last for a much longer period of time.
Although many doctors list the numbness of multiple sclerosis as a benign rather than a dangerous problem, it can lead to difficulty performing many daily activities. Numbness in the tongue can lead to speech problems, while in the hands and legs it can lead to fine motor skills problems and pain when walking. Patients may need help getting around, feeding, writing, using the toilet, and sleeping.
The numbness of multiple sclerosis can last for days, weeks, or sometimes months. Some medications, such as corticosteroids, can help reduce symptoms over time. During a period of remission, symptoms may disappear completely or decrease dramatically.
The symptoms associated with the numbness of multiple sclerosis are not life-threatening, although they can be quite annoying. Patients may need medications to help control uncomfortable feelings. Patients may also need to avoid certain situations or activities, because numbness will sometimes occur due to an external stressor, such as extreme changes in temperature. In these cases, they should subside once the stressor is no longer present.
Having multiple sclerosis numbness is not an indication that the disease is getting worse. This is a common symptom, even in the early stages of the disease and often eventually subsides for long periods. Medications can help patients avoid the onset of symptoms or lessen them until a period of remission begins. Many MS patients do not lose total mobility and are able to continue self-sufficiency with appropriate treatment.
The numbness of multiple sclerosis is often the first indication that they have the disease for many patients. It can start as a slight tingling sensation and numbness and eventually cause painful stinging and burning sensations. The severity of the discomfort varies widely from patient to patient, as does the duration of the initial symptoms.
Anyone experiencing numbness or other unusual symptoms should see their doctor for an evaluation. MS is one of the most common neurological disorders in young and middle-aged adults. There is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but the symptoms can be managed effectively in most cases.
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