What Are Usually The First Signs of MS?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, complex neurological condition that affects the central nervous system. It causes changes to the signals between the brain and rest of the body, often leading to a range of symptoms that differ from person to person. While MS does not currently have a cure, early identification as well as proactive treatment can make a significant difference on long term health and quality of life. 

If you’re unsure of what the first signs of MS are, you’re not alone. Recognising the early signs and symptoms is a key step for diagnosing multiple sclerosis and treatment. Although often overlooked, exercise can play a vital role in helping individuals manage symptoms, maintain function and lead an active and fulfilling life. 

What are the first signs of MS? 

One of the most common early symptoms of MS is changes to vision which is usually caused by an inflammation to the optic nerve in our eyes. This can cause symptoms including blurred or double vision, loss of colour vision, pain in the eyes or temporary vision loss. 

Many individuals also experience unexplained numbness or a pins and needles sensation. This often happens in areas including the face, legs and torso. It is common for this to occur on one side of the body at a time and may appear gradually. 

Fatigue is a sign and symptom that is often associated with MS. It can feel like extreme exhaustion and may not always improve with rest. Fatigue is usually one of the most debilitating symptoms and often appears early in the disease process. 

Those who have MS might also experience changes to their balance and coordination. This can cause difficulty walking, frequent stumbling or a feeling of dizziness. This is often a result of MS related changes that damage areas in the brain that coordinate movement. 

Damage to areas of the brain can also cause early cognitive impairments. Signs of this may include memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or trouble with speaking and finding the right words. This can also cause changes to mood, with depression and anxiety being prevalent in this population. 

The benefits of staying active with MS 

After receiving a diagnosis, many people with MS may feel unsure about how to safely exercise and stay active. With fatigue being a major symptom, it is often thought that rest is better than movement when living with a chronic illness. Recent evidence has suggested that exercise is one of the most effective ways to manage MS symptoms. 

Exercise has found to have the following benefits for those with MS: 

• Improve strength and mobility – Individualised exercise programs help maintain and increase muscle strength, flexibility and mobility. This is important to help maintain balance and walking. 
• Reduce MS related fatigue – Consistent low to moderate intensity exercise has been found to reduce fatigue over time. Exercise can help increase overall energy and stamina, making daily activities more manageable.  
• Support mental health – Exercise causes a release in endorphins, which are a natural mood booster. Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms of depression and anxiety, which is common in those with MS. 
• Improve cardiovascular and respiratory health – An MS diagnosis can increase the risk of secondary health conditions, including heart disease. Decreasing sedentary behaviour and staying active support overall health and heart function to prevent further complications. 
• Maintain independence – By staying active, those with MS are more likely to maintain their independence. When avoiding activities, they become harder. Regular exercise and movement can reduce reliance on assistive devices or carers. 

The role of an exercise physiologist in MS care 

While exercise for MS is important, ensuring it is individualised and supervised allows it to be more effective and beneficial. This is especially important for those who are experiencing conditions where symptoms and energy levels are changing day to day. 

A clinical exercise physiologist is a health professional who is trained in designing a safe, evidence-based exercise program for people with chronic and complex conditions. For someone with MS, this may include an individualised program that takes into consideration your symptoms, limitations, goals and how you’re feeling on the day. Supervision ensures exercises are performed correctly and safely. Appropriate regressions and progressions can be made on days where fatigue is heightened or energy levels are higher, allowing for progress to be made over time. This allows us to monitor progress and adjust where needed over time. Constant education and support also allows for greater motivation and self awareness with exercise. Working with an exercise physiologist not only helps you move better, but also feel more confident in your body, even when MS symptoms are fluctuating. 

Whether you’ve just been diagnosed with MS, have been living with it for years, or are experiencing some similar signs and symptoms, exercise can help you achieve your goals. Our team of expert exercise professionals are here to help. We specialise in working with individuals with MS and other neurological conditions, creating individualised programs to support mobility, strength and overall wellbeing. 

Contact us today to get started with an initial consultation and take the first step to managing your MS with movement. We’re here to support you every step of the way.