INFOGRAPHICMS

4 Types of Altered Sensations in MS

November 03, 2023
Altered Sensations in Multiple Sclerosis Up to 40% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) may experience altered sensations, called dysesthesias, in their lifetime. These sensations may cause long-lasting feelings of: Prickling Stabbing Freezing or burning Squeezing Itching Numbness Electric shocks They tend to interfere with day-to-day life. What Causes Altered Sensations in MS? Damage to the nerves in the brain and spinal cord disrupts how the brain receives and interprets messages. The brain translates the disrupted nerve signals as these unpleasant sensations. Because they’re caused by nerve damage, dysesthesias may also be called nerve pain or neuropathic pain. 4 Types of Altered Sensations Trigeminal Neuralgia Quick but repeated sharp, stabbing pains on the side of the face or jaw, sometimes confused with dental pain May affect about 6% of people with MS Lhermitte’s Sign An electric-shock-like sensation that typically runs from the back of the head, down the spine, and into the arms and legs, triggered by bending the neck May affect about 19% of people who have MS MS Hug An uncomfortable squeezing sensation around the torso, often compared to the feeling of a tightening blood pressure cuff It’s not known how common the MS hug is. Pruritus A chronic itching, burning, or pins-and-needles sensation that can occur anywhere in the body May affect about 35% of those with MS Ways to Manage Abnormal Sensations Altered sensations can affect everyone differently. Try some of these tips to see which can help you most. Ask your doctor about treatment. Common painkillers aren’t usually helpful, but your doctor may be able to recommend other options, like gabapentin. This depends on your specific type of nerve pain. Avoid overheating. Heat may trigger abnormal sensations. Avoid hot baths and showers. Make sure you don’t overheat during activities or exercise, such as by wearing a cooling vest as needed. Bundle up when it’s cold. Exposure to drastic changes in temperature or wind can trigger altered sensations, too. Dress warmly in layers to protect yourself in chilly weather. Dress comfortably. Tight-fitting clothing may trigger altered sensations. Instead, wear looser, breathable clothing. Stay active. Improving or maintaining your strength and flexibility may help you manage these sensations. Try walking, stretching, swimming, or yoga. Practice relaxation techniques. Strategies like deep breathing and meditation can help relax your body and lower your sensitivity to unpleasant sensations. Prioritize sleep. Fatigue can make you more sensitive, so try to get enough rest. If painful sensations cause trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. Work with an OT. An occupational therapist can provide tools and tricks to help minimize abnormal sensations. They can also help you accomplish daily tasks more easily. Sources Drulovic, J. et al. (2015). The Prevalence of Pain in Adults with Multiple Sclerosis: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Survey. Pain Medicine. Ingrasci, G. et al. (2022). Chronic pruritus in multiple sclerosis and clinical correlates. Journal of The European Academy of Dermatology & Venereology. MS Focus Magazine. 14 Natural Ways to Calm and Prevent Discomfort from Dysesthesia. November 2016. MS International Foundation. Pain. October 2021. MS Society (UK). MS Hug. Multiple Sclerosis Trust. Altered sensations. July 2018. Multiple Sclerosis Trust. Pain. July 2018. National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Pain & Itching.