Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that impacts around 2.3 million in the world. It is a progressive disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack healthy nerves. Although most people are diagnosed with MS between the ages of 20 and 50, the disease does occasionally occur in people who are older. Knowing the signs and symptoms of MS could mean getting your aging relative treatment sooner.
Below are some signs of MS that are usually among the first to appear.
Changes in Vision
MS causes inflammation that can interfere with the optic nerve. Vision problems are often one of the first symptoms that people with MS report. Some vision changes that may occur are:
- Blurry vision.
- Double vision.
- Changes in the way they see red or green.
- Vision loss.
- Pain that occurs when the person looks up or to the side.
Tingling Sensations
Many people with MS experience tingling sensations in their arms, face, legs, or fingers. It happens because the disease attacks the nerves of the central nervous system, causing it to send confused signals. Sometimes the damage to nerves causes there to be no signals sent, which can result in numbness.
Feeling Tired and Weak
Around 80 percent of people with MS experience fatigue (a feeling of extreme tiredness) and weakness. Weakness typically starts in the legs first, but may affect other parts of the body, too. Feelings of fatigue come on quickly and can persist for weeks.
Feeling Dizzy or Unbalanced
People with MS often have trouble with balance or feel lightheaded and dizzy. They may also experience vertigo, a feeling like the room around them is spinning. These problems can cause mobility problems and increase the risk of falling.
Cognitive Changes
Around 50 percent of people with MS will have changes in cognition. Some changes they may experience include:
- Trouble with memory.
- Difficulty paying attention.
- Problems with language.
- Trouble staying organized.
- Slowed ability to process information.
If your family member has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, regardless of their age, home health care can help them to live comfortably and safely at home. Home health care providers can offer medication reminders and transportation to medical appointments or other places the person needs to go. Home health care providers can also help with tasks that are difficult due to MS symptoms, like cleaning the house, making meals, and doing laundry. A home health care provider can even help with personal care tasks, such as dressing, bathing, and grooming.
Sources: https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/multiple-sclerosis-symptoms#1
https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/early-signs
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323130.php
https://www.verywellhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis-age-and-treatment-2440939