Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive changes can be one of the earliest manifestations of demyelination associated with MS and will affect between 40-70% of people. Memory problems, especially short term memory, are the most common.

Management

MRI studies have demonstrated a clear relationship between MS lesions and cognitive problems.

Research has also shown that MS can cause a reduction in brain size (or atrophy). This atrophy is closely linked to the presence of cognitive difficulties and may be a more likely cause of cognitive problems than brain lesions.

Read Cognition and MS for more information.

Key Healthcare Professionals

• Family physician
• MS nurse
• Psychologist
• Neuropsychologist
• Occupational therapist speech/language pathologist