Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease and also a progressive neurodegenerative condition. While the exact cause of MS is not known, treatment options are also largely restricted to managing its symptoms. MS starts affecting the nervous system first and slowly impacts the rest of the body. The immune cells attack the healthy tissues over a period of time, affecting internal systems. Here are nine common issues that affect people with MS.

1. Bladder and bowel issues
MS eventually results in disruption of communication between the brain, urinary tract, and bowels. This means people with MS do not receive a message from the brain to release waste. The bladder is mostly either overactive or fails to empty completely. Some of the common issues include constipation, diarrhea, and incontinence. People with MS should stick to a high-fiber diet or consume stool softeners to help ease bowel movements. In addition, patients with MS battle frequently with bladder and urinary tract infections.

2. Mental health complications
This is the most common issue faced by people with MS. Bipolar affective disorder and depression are highly common among MS patients. Depression in the case of MS could largely be chemical-related than emotion-related. Sense of isolation and economic and social challenges also top the list when it comes to mental complications associated with MS.

Psychotherapy and prescribed medications are the only effective ways to manage these conditions.

3. Impairment with vision
Blurry vision, double vision, uncontrolled eye movements, and loss of vision are some of the complications associated with MS. These are often the first symptoms for a person with MS, and it usually starts off with poor contrast while trying to focus on objects.

4. Cognitive impairment
Nearly half of those living with MS have cognitive issues, like slower intellectual processing and memory loss. This results in impaired visual-spatial abilities, reduce problem-solving abilities, and trouble communicating. The only effective way to manage these  is to undergo medical treatment and cognitive rehabilitation. Support from family members plays a crucial part in the process.

5. Breathing difficulty
Trunk muscles are weakened due to damage to the nerves. The nerve damage is significantly experienced along the spinal cord and causes a lot of fatigue and inflammation while breathing.

6. Compromised immune system
MS compromises the immune system in the long run, making the person susceptible to pneumonia, inflammatory diseases, and nutrient deficiencies. These conditions cause MS to flare up further, creating a vicious circle.

7. Brittle bones
Inactivity coupled with nutrient deficiency weakens the bones, making them brittle. Yet another condition due to long-term inactivity is osteoporosis.

8. Muscle weakness
Nerve damage causes significant damage to one’s gait, and advanced MS results in muscle weakness. In such cases, wheelchairs are often necessary.

9. Sexual dysfunction
MS impairs arousal, increases fatigue, causes emotional change, and spasticity. However, MS does not reduce fertility.