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MS ExplainedVisual problems

Visual problems are common in MS and are often one of the first symptoms people experience.

Double vision

Visual disturbances in MS can be caused by damage to the nerve pathways that connect to the 12 muscles that control the movement of the eyes. A reduction of coordination in the eyeballs leads to double vision (diplopia).

Nystagmus

Sometimes nerve damage results in a flickering or jerking motion of the eyeballs, often when moving the eyes to a certain position. This disorder is called nystagmus.

Uhthoff's phenomenon

Some people find that an increase in temperature affects their vision in some way. This effect is known as Uhthoff's phenomenon or Uhthoff's sign. These symptoms lessen or disappear when the individual cools down again.

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