The immune system protects the body against harmful pathogens. When potentially dangerous agents enter the body, the immune system acts promptly to nullify their effects. However, at times, the immune system acts strangely and attacks the healthy cells in the body. Diseases caused due to this effect are called autoimmune diseases. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one such autoimmune disease, which affects the brain and spinal cord.

In MS, the immune system disrupts the communication between the brain and spinal cord by attacking myelin, an insulating sheath that protects the nerves in the two organs. When the myelin sheath gets damaged, the nerves within it also suffer, leading to a range of problems.

Since there is no definitive cure for MS, managing symptoms is the only way to help someone recover. Getting the symptoms diagnosed early can also help prevent the condition from worsening. Here are some of the earliest symptoms of MS to watch out for.

• Vision concerns
  The optic nerve sends visual signals to the brain, which then converts into image impulses, helping us see the things that we do. MS, though, has a profound effect on the brain. Hence, by extension, it also adversely affects vision, causing problems like double vision and loss of vision.
• Problems with movement
  This again stems from the effects of MS on the central nervous system. The brain and spinal cord are together responsible for coordination, balance, and awareness. By damaging the myelin sheath, MS disrupts communication between the two pillars of the central nervous system, causing dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems.
• Numbness
  Nerves carry signals throughout the body. When they’re damaged, the signals they send also suffer. Alternatively, they might not send signals at all, further causing numbness. It is one of the most common symptoms of MS, so look out for it.
• Fatigue and weakness

Many common diseases also cause fatigue and weakness, but when it lasts for weeks, it could be a sign of MS. Get yourself checked with your doctor, as about 80% of patients with MS in the country suffer from fatigue and weakness in the early stages.

• Deteriorating emotional health
  Many MS patients suffer from depression, mood swings, and strange behavior. It again comes directly from the effect the disease has on the central nervous system.