Multiple Sclerosis |
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Multiple Sclerosis
 Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Signs and Symptoms It is important to note that symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) may mimic those of other conditions. Additionally, symptoms may differ in severity and longevity for each child. Children with MS can have a wide range of symptoms, depending on where the damage occurs in the central nervous system. Tingling, numbness and sensations of tightness or weakness may result when myelin in the spinal cord is damaged. Likewise, damage to the cerebellum portion of the brain may result in imbalance or a lack of coordination.
Because MS can cause a wide variety of symptoms, doctors frequently struggle to diagnose the disease. However, common symptoms of MS in children include:
- Eye problems, such as double vision or uncontrolled eye movements. Also, a sudden loss of vision is often a telltale sign of MS in children.
- Clumsiness or weakness
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Fatigue
- Slurred speech
- Problems with bladder or bowel control
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Tremors
- Tingling or numbness in body parts
Some children with MS also experience cognitive impairments related to the disease, which may range in severity. These include difficulty with concentration, attention and memory, which may affect a child's academic performance.
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Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated October 29, 2008
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