Actress Selma Blair recently revealed to the world that she has multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a disease that affects the central nervous system. It is considered an autoimmune disease because the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective coverings of nerves. This causes nerves to function improperly. The symptoms of the disease vary according to the nerves that are affected. Because of the variance in symptoms, it is a difficult disease to diagnose. In Blair’s case, she believes she had the disease for 15 years before she finally received a diagnosis. Typically, the symptoms of MS begin between the ages of 20 and 40, but they can occur at any age. Below are some of the early warning signs that may indicate a family member has MS.
Extremities Fall Asleep Easily
Everyone has an arm or leg fall asleep once in a while. It’s that tingly feeling that happens when you put pressure on a limb for too long. However, if arms, legs, hands, or feet seem to fall asleep for no reason, it could be a sign of MS. The feeling happens because the brain and spinal cord aren’t sending any signals to the nerves in that part of the body.
Feeling Tired All the Time
Around 80 percent of people with MS experience fatigue in the earliest stages of the disease. They may also feel unexplainably weak. Fatigue usually comes on suddenly and lasts for days or weeks. It can affect a person’s ability to do their normal daily tasks.
Dizziness and Lightheadedness
Dizziness is common in the early part of MS. It happens when the nerves that are involved in coordination and sensory abilities are damaged. Some people also experience vertigo, which is a feeling of the room around them spinning. Nausea is also common.
Forgetfulness
MS can cause cognitive problems. It can cause unusual forgetfulness and make it hard to pay attention. It can also change the way a person speaks, causing a nasal tone or slurring.
If you are a family caregiver to someone with MS and you need help, consider contacting an elder care agency. Although elder care agencies specialize in offering help to people aged 65 and older, they can also help younger adults who are debilitated by MS. Elder care providers can drive your family member to the places they need to go, assist them to walk safely, and do things around the house for them, including cleaning and cooking.
Sources
https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/early-signs
https://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/multiple-sclerosis-symptoms
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19996617/7-early-signs-of-ms-to-know-about/
If you are considering hiring elder care in Clearfield, UT, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Seniors Helping Seniors of Ogden, UT. Call today 801-821-4535.