How do i know if someone has multiple sclerosis?

Can be tricky: Multiple sclerosis is a very difficult disease to diagnose, because the symptoms can be so variable from person to person. Classically, it presents as discrete attacks of symptoms (vision loss, weakness, numbness, etc) that each wane over a few weeks. Definitive diagnosis can be made by a neurologist, usually with a combination of physical exam, lumbar puncture, and mri.

Diagnosis of MS: Ms is a clinical DX supported by MRI brain and spine imaging as well as spinal fliud analysis. The hallmark in DX this condition is neurological sympotms and signs that have developed over time and space. The most imporant step is a good history followed by a complete neurological examination, then neuroimaging.

Might be difficult: In a friend who is being treated and controlled with potent meds, you might think they look completely normal. If undiagnosed, they might display inordinate fatigue, get confused with poor memory, have bad balance, trouble with visual loss, weakness in legs, etc. This is a complex area for most physicians, and an ms specialty focused neurologist is critical.