A nurse is assessing a client who has multiple sclerosis. Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse anticipate?
(Select All that Apply.)
A.
Paresthesia
B.
Nausea and vomiting
C.
Dysphagia
D.
Spasticity
E.
Vertigo
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition that affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by a wide range of symptoms due to demyelination of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. The assessment findings commonly associated with MS include:
A. Paresthesia
C. Dysphagia
D. Spasticity
E. Vertigo
Explanation:
- A. Paresthesia: This is a common symptom of MS, often presenting as tingling, numbness, or a “pins and needles” sensation in various parts of the body.
- C. Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) can occur in MS due to involvement of the nerves that control swallowing.
- D. Spasticity: Muscle spasticity, or increased muscle tone and stiffness, is a frequent symptom in MS. It results from disrupted nerve signals that affect muscle control.
- E. Vertigo: Vertigo or a sensation of spinning can be experienced in MS due to lesions affecting the brainstem or cerebellum, which are involved in balance and coordination.
- B. Nausea and vomiting: While nausea and vomiting can occur in some neurological conditions, they are not typical primary symptoms of MS. They may occur secondary to other factors such as medication side effects or complications.
Therefore, the assessment findings that should be anticipated in a client with multiple sclerosis are:
A. Paresthesia
C. Dysphagia
D. Spasticity
E. Vertigo