When unusual MS symptoms appear, especially in women, it can often come as a relief to finally have an explanation.
Even if there isn't an easy or quick treatment understanding that a symptom is linked to multiple sclerosis can be an important first step towards managing it.
Below are some of the less common or unusual MS symptoms, including those that may be more noticeable or distressing for women with MS. They are not the only symptoms that can occur, and everyone's experience with MS is unique.
If you're living with MS, or supporting someone who is, it's important to discuss any new or changing symptoms with your healthcare team.
Navigating unusual symptoms may involve several specialists as other causes are ruled out. It can be hard to describe what you're feeling, and it's normal to experience anxiety or uncertainty. Your MS nurse or neurologist can help guide you through this process.
If you’re experiencing new or worrying symptoms, speak with your healthcare team, or make a free appointment with an experienced MS Nurses by calling .
Uncontrollable or inappropriate crying and laughing (Pseudobulbar affect)
Pseudobulbar affect (PSA), also called pathological crying or laughing, is uncommon but not rare in MS. It occurs when the brain circuits that link emotions and facial expressions are disrupted. People with PBA might laugh uncontrollably when nothing is funny or cry intensely without feeling sad. This can be distressing and isolating, especially for women, who may already experience higher emotional sensitivity due to hormonal fluctuations. Certain medications can help manage this symptom. Loss of humour can also occur in MS, though it's unrelated to PBA and may happen independently.
Itchiness (Pruritis)
MS-related itch can be severe and debilitating – often far more than a mild irritation. It's a neuropathic symptom, meaning it stems from the nervous system rather than the skin. Because of this, typical creams or antihistamines rarely help. Treatments often include the same medications used for nerve pain.
Lifestyle adjustments may also reduce discomfort, such as wearing soft, loose-fitting clothing, avoiding heat and rough fabrics, staying hydrated and managing stress, and noticing whether hormonal cycles or diet changes affect the itch.
Intractable hiccups
Intractable hiccups are persistent hiccups lasting weeks or even months. They can result from MS lesions in the brainstem and may be very uncomfortable. They are more often seen in Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO), a condition related to MS, but can occur in rare cases of MS too. Severe cases may require hospital treatment.
Intractable vomiting
Persistent vomiting may occur alongside intractable hiccups or as a separate paroxysmal symptom. If vomiting continues or worsens, seek medical advice immediately to rule out other causes.
Hearing loss
Hearing loss from MS is very rare, affecting fewer than 6% of people with the disease. Sudden deafness in one or both ears can sometimes indicate an MS relapse. In one case, a young woman with MS developed sudden hearing loss in one ear. An MRI revealed a new MS lesion, and after IV steroid treatment, her hearing returned.
Crocodile tears (Bogorad syndrome)
Crocodile tears or Bogorad syndrome can cause tear shedding while eating or drinking, also known as gustatory lacrimation. It can appear after facial weakness (Bell's palsy), which occasionally occurs in MS. Women with MS may be more prone to facial weakness or tear gland changes during hormonal shifts, which can affect tear production. This symptom may resolve with time, and physiotherapy or Botox can assist recovery.
Pseudoathetosis
Pseudoathetosis causes slow, involuntary writhing movements, often of the fingers. It's linked to damage in the brain pathways that process body position (proprioception). Although extremely rare, it can occur as part of an MS relapse. Once treated with steroids and effective MS therapies, symptoms usually resolve.
Seizures
Seizures affect about 2–5% of people with MS and result from abnormal electrical discharges in an injured or scarred area of the brain. While seizures may occur as part of MS, they can also result from fever, infection or medication changes.
Possible seizure symptoms include:
- Sudden loss of consciousness or awareness
- Confusion or behaviour changes
- Falls without warning
- Strange sensations and emotions
- Uncontrollable jerking of arms and legs
- Staring or blank episodes
- Aura
If you think you've experienced a seizure, contact your medical team right away.
When to seek help
If you notice new or unexplained changes, talk to your healthcare team. Investigating rare symptoms often takes time while other causes are excluded. This can be a frustrating or worrying period, especially if symptoms are hard to explain.
MS specialist neurologists and MS nurses have seen a wide range of symptom patterns, including those that may appear unique or gender-specific. They can help you find clarity and reassurance. You can also make a free appointment with an experienced MS Nurse at MS Plus by calling .