Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It cannot currently be cured, but treatment can often help manage it.

Symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS)

There are lots of possible symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Everyone with the condition is affected differently.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

• feeling extremely tired (fatigue)
• problems with your eyes or your vision, such as blurred vision or eye pain
• numbness or a tingling feeling in different parts of the body
• feeling off balance, dizzy or clumsy (uncoordinated)
• muscle cramps, spasms and stiffness
• needing to pee more often or not being able to control when you pee
• problems with memory or concentration
• sexual problems, including a dry vagina or erection problems

Symptoms may come (called “flare-ups” or “relapses”) and go (called “remissions”), and may get worse over time.

How multiple sclerosis (MS) affects your life

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is different for everyone. No one can predict how much your MS might affect you.

For some people, MS only has a small impact on daily life which means you can continue with your work and usual activities.

Others have more severe symptoms which can have a much bigger impact.

MS symptoms can affect mobility, and you may need to adapt your life by using mobility aids, reducing working hours or needing more help around the home.

MS treatments are improving, so if you’re diagnosed with MS today you can expect a better quality of life than was possible before.

Most people with MS live into old age although life expectancy, on average, is a few years less than the general population.

Help and support for multiple sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) can be a difficult condition to live with, both physically and emotionally.

As well as support from your doctor and MS nurse, you may find it helpful to get support from other people with MS, either at a local support group or online.

There are also national charities that can offer support and information about MS.

MS Society

Information and support for anyone affected by MS.

• Website: www.mssociety.org.uk
• Helpline: 0808 800 8000
• MS Society: local support groups
• MS Society: community forum
• MS Society: virtual support events

MS Trust

Information and support for anyone affected by MS.

• Website: www.mstrust.org.uk
• Helpline: 0800 032 3839
• MS Trust: support and services
• MS Trust: podcasts

MS-UK

Information and emotional support for anyone affected by MS.

• Website: www.ms-uk.org
• Helpline: 0800 783 0518
• MS-UK: peer support service
• MS-UK: online activities

Lincolnshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre

The Lincolnshire MS Therapy Centre is a drop-in Centre for those who have MS, and their friends, families and carers to meet, socialise and obtain treatments free of charge (donations accepted).

Opening times

Monday and Friday 6:30am – 3pm

50 Outer Circle Drive
Lincoln
Lincolnshire
LN2 4JH

Overview – Lincolnshire Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre – NHS

Lincolnshire MS Facebook Page

Skegness MS Society Support Group Monthly Coffee Morning

Coffee Morning for anyone with MS and a carer.