Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms and Diagnosis

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Understanding Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease that's both difficult to understand and to live with. If you want answers, you'll find them on the Web. The nation's top MS research foundations, clinics, support networks, and health sites provide extensive information on the background of the disease, treatment options, coping, research, and much more. Use this guide to increase your understanding of MS, and become proactive in caring for yourself or your loved one.

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What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that, according to the Mayo Clinic ... read more »

Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms and Diagnosis

The signs and symptoms of MS vary wildly, not only from individual to individual, but from day to day. According to a primer on disabilities from Arizona State University, multiple sclerosis can have a person feeling great one day and horrible the next, with no warning or explanation. The disease is often characterized by weakness, numbness, and difficulty moving. In this section we'll direct you to sites that describe the symptoms of MS in more detail, and explain the tests doctors perform to diagnose it.

Dulcinea's Insight

The list of symptoms that someone with MS might display is extremely long. Before jumping to conclusions about your condition, consult your doctor for an expert diagnosis.

You'll often see the symptoms of MS separated into two categories: early and advanced. The "early" symptoms are those that characterize the onset of the disease, and the "advanced" symptoms are its mature effects. Be aware of this distinction in your research.

Dulcinea's Picks

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has a "Brochure" with overview of MS detection, that is found midway down the page. Toward the bottom of the page are overviews of testing procedures and diagnosis.

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The University of California, San Francisco Medical Center has a page describing the process by which MS is diagnosed. It lists the tests that are conducted as well as some illnesses that can mimic the signs and symptoms of MS.

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Merck.com lists the sensory, motor, and psychological and neurological symptoms people with MS experience. The "Diagnosis" section has an overview of how MS is diagnosed with more detailed accounts of particular tests.

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All About Multiple Sclerosis offers a comprehensive list of MS symptoms, broken down into categories: visual; sensory; motor; coordination and balance; bowel, bladder, and sexual; cognitive; and other symptoms. For each symptom you'll find a short description.

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MedlinePlus has an Encyclopedia that offers and overview of multiple sclerosis and provides a list of the common symptoms of the disease. Many of the symptoms are appended with links to expanded information.

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