3. Sensory Disturbances: A Mismatch of Perception
Sensory disturbances in CIS create a strange disconnect between what the body feels and what it should feel. This may include tingling, numbness, or even a burning sensation in various parts of the body.
Unlike some other symptoms, sensory disturbances can be disorienting. The body begins to send incorrect signals to the brain, leading to perceptions that are entirely out of sync with reality. This mismatch creates a puzzling experience for the individual, often leading to confusion and anxiety.
The mechanism behind sensory disturbances is similar to other symptoms in CIS, where the immune system mistakenly targets the nerve’s protective layer, the myelin sheath. The damage causes a disruption in the way sensations are transmitted, leading to abnormal sensations or even loss of feeling.
Diagnosis of sensory disturbances involves understanding the exact nature of the altered sensations, their pattern, and associated factors. Neurological examinations and imaging tests such as MRI help in associating these sensations with CIS.(3)
