6. Sensory Disruptions: A World Distorted
Imagine a constant tingling sensation in your limbs or an unexplained numbness that just won’t go away. For NMOSD patients, these aren’t just hypothetical scenarios but everyday realities. Sensory disruptions, characterized by either heightened or diminished sensations, are a hallmark of this disease.
The world, as perceived through the touch, can become distorted. Some patients report feeling as if they’re wearing gloves or socks even when they aren’t. Others might experience sharp, shooting pains or a persistent itch that doesn’t relent.
These symptoms, while not life-threatening, can severely impact a patient’s quality of life. The constant barrage of distorted sensations can be mentally exhausting. Moreover, it can lead to inadvertent injuries. For instance, a diminished sense of temperature might result in burns from hot surfaces. (6)
