Early Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis in Women

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease that affects the nervous system and is more common in women than in men. Recognizing the early signs of MS in women is crucial, as it allows for early diagnosis and management, significantly improving the quality of life for those affected.

This article focuses on the early symptoms of MS in women, how it is diagnosed, how it affects women’s health, as well as available treatment options.

What Is Multiple Sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that primarily affects the brain and the spinal cord. The immune system attacks the myelin sheath that surrounds the nerve fibers, causing inflammation and destruction. As a result, communication between the brain and the body is progressively disrupted, and various symptoms appear due to disintegration. 

First signs of MS in females include neurological symptoms such as fatigue, numbness, and weakness. Some studies suggest that women may have a higher incidence of pain and sensory symptoms, while men may exhibit more motor symptoms such as muscle stiffness and coordination issues. 

The main types of multiple sclerosis (MS) include:

• Relapsing-remitting (RRMS); 
• Primary progressive (PPMS); 
• Secondary progressive (SPMS);
• Progressive relapsing (PRMS).

The exact causes of MS are unknown, but genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development. Scientists continue to study the pathogenesis of this disease. 

What Are the Early Symptoms of MS in Women?

Symptoms of MS differ greatly among individuals and may evolve unexpectedly over time. Consequently, the early signs of MS in women are frequently overlooked or confused with other conditions, complicating the problem of early diagnosis.

Here are some frequently observed early symptoms of MS in women:

1. Fatigue

One of the most prevalent early MS symptoms in females is weariness, which can be crippling. In contrast to usual tiredness, MS-related weariness manifests itself as an overpowering kind of tiredness that remains unabated even after taking some time out or taking a nap.

It can hinder individuals from executing their everyday routines and deteriorate their general life quality. This fatigue occurs because the body works harder to compensate for damaged nerves and immune system activity caused by MS.

2. Vision problems

MS typically causes painful eye vision problems, such as blurry vision, double vision, partial vision loss, or complete blindness. Painful eye movements or vision impairment are usually early signs of MS in women.

In most cases, these early symptoms of MS in females are triggered by an inflammation of the optic nerve, called optic neuritis. In more severe cases, this condition causes temporary loss of sight or permanent blindness in one eye, and some patients may report mild pain around the affected area.

3. Numbness and tingling

Periodic numbness and tingling are the classic first symptoms of MS in women. People with MS often feel numbness and tingling in the body’s limbs. Some parts of the body where this tingling is commonly felt include the face, arms, legs, and fingers. These feelings may be intermittent or persistent.

This occurs due to nerve damage that disrupts the sensory system’s normal functioning. As a result, individuals may feel anything from mild tingling to complete sensory loss in affected areas.

4. Muscle weakness and spasms

Many individuals with multiple sclerosis tend to feel muscle weakness and cramps. Limb weakness can make walking or performing simple tasks challenging. It results from nerve damage that disrupts communication between the brain and muscles.

There are times when one feels good, but at other times, all they experience is discomfort.

5. Balance and coordination issues

Sometimes balance and coordination problems can be early signs of MS in women. A patient may exhibit an unsteady gait, may often fall, or find it hard to do some tasks like buttoning a shirt.

These early MS symptoms in females are caused by lesions in the cerebellum, which plays a key role in coordinating movements, as well as damage to sensory tracts that relay information about the body’s position. Balance and coordination problems can significantly impact a person’s independence and safety.

6. Bladder and bowel dysfunction

In some cases, the early signs of MS in women can include urinary incontinence, urinary frequency, and urge incontinence. This happens because nerve damage interferes with signaling from the brain to either the bladder or rectum.

As a result, the person loses control over even basic involuntary body functions. This, in turn, can lead to bladder issues, increasing the risk of urinary infections, bowel problems, pain, and social discomfort.

7. Cognitive changes

Cognitive disruption can manifest as one of the early signs of MS in young females. This condition can disrupt a person’s thinking abilities, leading to difficulties with memory recall and concentration. Known as “cog fog,” cognitive declines can vary from mild to severe, affecting the ability to perform everyday tasks.

These issues arise from disturbances in brain neurons that disrupt signal transmission between them. Early intervention and cognitive retraining can help reduce many of these symptoms, enabling the mind to perform normal activities.

8. Pain

People with MS often experience different types of chronic pain. Two types of such pains are neuropathic pain and musculoskeletal pain. Neuropathic pain results from damage to nerves and leads to sensations like a sharp, stabbing pain or burning.

On the other hand, musculoskeletal pains manifest as a result of muscle stiffness and muscle spasms, as well as associated factors such as poor posture or limited movement. Various treatments, such as medications and physiotherapy, can help manage these symptoms and reduce pain intensity.

9. Depression and mood swings

Fluctuations in mood, such as feelings of sadness or worry, are common in people with MS. These changes can be attributed to alterations in the brain regions responsible for mood regulation due to the disease state.

Furthermore, dealing with MS throughout life may lead to depression or anxiety.

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MS Symptoms Specific To Women

There are various symptoms of MS that are common in both genders. However, some symptoms are gender-specific and unique to women due to hormonal differences and reproductive health issues. Some of these multiple sclerosis early symptoms in females include:

• Menstrual problems

These can include changes in the periods experienced by female patients with multiple sclerosis. Hormonal fluctuations during monthly cycles can intensify early MS symptoms in women, such as fatigue, widespread pain, cognitive changes, and other issues associated with the condition. 

Before or during menstruation, these symptoms can get worse. It is important to know how best to manage them.

• Pregnancy-related symptoms

Early signs of MS in women can be significantly affected by pregnancy. A lot of women see their symptoms lessen during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. The reason is believed to be in pregnancy hormones, which are immunosuppressive. 

In spite of this, there is a higher chance of a recurrence after giving birth. All women suffering from multiple sclerosis disorder should keep in touch with their doctors so they can handle it well before or after they get pregnant.

• Menopause

Signs and symptoms of multiple sclerosis in females may also be influenced by menopause. Specifically, hormonal shifts during this time can intensify fatigue, cognitive changes, and mood swings. Comprehensive management involving hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle modifications, and treating symptoms where necessary could ease these symptoms.

In addition, new symptoms can arise, or early signs of MS in women can worsen, including hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in sleeping habits, all of which can further complicate the treatment of MS.

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Because bladder dysfunction is linked to the disease, women with MS have a greater likelihood of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bladder issues, such as incontinence, urinary frequency, and urgency, are some of the symptoms that may put a woman at risk of having a bladder problem. 

UTIs can worsen MS symptoms, leading to increased discomfort and further deterioration.

• Sexual dysfunction

Another symptom that may particularly occur in women with MS is sexual dysfunction; it comprises decreased sex drive, vaginal dryness, difficulty in reaching orgasm, and pain during sex. The cause of these problems can be both physical (caused by the disease itself) and psychological (e.g., depression and anxiety). 

How Is Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosed?

To diagnose MS, the physician must perform a comprehensive evaluation. This includes taking a detailed medical history, performing a neurological examination, and running some tests to make an accurate conclusion. Early detection plays a key role in getting the right treatment and managing symptoms effectively. 

Ways to Treat MS

There are various ways to manage multiple sclerosis symptoms in young females. The treatment plan focuses on decreasing the frequency of relapses and slowing down disease progression, even though multiple sclerosis has no definitive cure. The specific patient’s problem determines the type of care that would be found appropriate; therefore, the treatment could involve some of the following:

1. Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs)

   Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) focus on reducing the rate and intensity of relapses, slowing down the disease progress, and preventing the development of new lesions. Some common DMTs include interferons, glatiramer acetate, and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) among others.

2. Symptom management

   Various drugs and therapies are used to handle certain multiple sclerosis early symptoms in females, for example, tiredness, muscle spasms, fatigue, and issues with the bladder. Occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy could also be part of this treatment.

3. Lifestyle modifications

   It is important for a person with multiple sclerosis to exercise regularly, get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, and most importantly, watch their diet, as this would greatly improve their health.

4. Stem cell therapy

   Stem cell therapy for MS includes the use of adult multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). MSCs can help:

   • Reduce inflammation;
   • Regulate one’s immunity;
   • Promote repair of damaged tissues;
   • Potentially protect the nervous system from further damage.

   Research is ongoing, but studies indicate that MSC therapy may help improve symptoms and slow down disease progression.

   The therapy conducted by Swiss Medica has given hope to a lot of patients suffering from MS. Stem cell therapy aims to reduce early signs of MS in women and improve quality of life in general.

Does Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Affect Fertility?

Infertility is not a direct symptom of MS. However, certain medications used to treat multiple sclerosis early symptoms in females and hormonal imbalances caused by the disease may impact fertility. Women planning to conceive should discuss their treatment plan with their healthcare provider to ensure safety during pregnancy.

Additionally, fatigue, stress, and other symptoms may indirectly affect a woman’s ability to conceive by impacting her health and well-being. 

Does Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Affect Menstruation?

Multiple sclerosis can affect menstruation in women. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can exacerbate early signs of MS in women, making them more severe or more difficult to manage. Women with MS may experience increased fatigue, pain, and cognitive changes just before or during their menstrual period.

Managing early symptoms of MS in females may involve tracking the menstrual cycle, adjusting medications, and incorporating lifestyle modifications to reduce the impact of hormonal changes on their condition.

Why Are Females More at Risk?

Women are more likely to develop MS than men, with a female-to-male ratio of approximately 3:1. The exact reason for this disparity is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to the increased risk in women:

Conclusion

Timely recognition of early signs of MS in women is critical for timely treatment and effective management. The early symptoms of MS in women can vary widely, but a comprehensive approach that addresses menstrual disorders, pregnancy-related concerns, and menopausal changes can improve quality of life.

Therefore, women with this condition should consult their healthcare practitioners to explore new solutions, including stem cell therapy, to improve their quality of life and manage early symptoms of MS in women more effectively.

For more information on stem cell therapy for MS, please visit Swiss Medica’s stem cell therapy for MS page.

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Dr. Aleksandra Fetyukhina, MD

Medical Advisor, Swiss Medica doctor

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Dr. Lana Reviewer

MD, Pediatrician, Regenerative Medicine Specialist