In multiple sclerosis, what type of change in sensation could patients experience?

In multiple sclerosis, patients may experience a variety of sensory changes due to the damage to the myelin sheath that covers nerve fibers. This demyelination disrupts the normal transmission of signals within the nervous system, which can lead to decreased sensation. Patients often report numbness, a feeling of pins and needles (paresthesia), or a general loss of sensory input in different parts of the body. This can manifest as diminished ability to feel touch, pressure, heat, or cold, which can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.

While other changes in sensation can occur, such as increased sensitivity or abnormal sensations, the primary and most common experience tends to be decreased or altered sensation. This is particularly relevant for multiple sclerosis, as the nature of the disease impacts sensory pathways distinctly.