Multiple sclerosis (MS) is infamous for causing physical symptoms such as numbness, spasticity, and loss of balance. However, it also leads to cognitive impairment in 45 to 70% of MS patients which can manifest as problems with thinking, learning, and memory. When people receive an MS diagnosis, often the focus is placed on treating physical symptoms, leaving cognitive issues such as memory problems, slower thinking, and mental fatigue frequently overlooked. Yet, these cognitive problems can significantly impact a person's quality of life, including their ability to remain employed.

Cognitive function testing can identify which cognitive abilities are affected and determine the best forms of rehabilitation. Initial cognitive problems can be subtle and include difficulties with finding the right words, making decisions, following conversations, and performing tasks which are crucial for maintaining employment or day to-day functions.

Affected individuals can experience compromised white matter tracts in the brain, leading to a less efficient neural network that may result in slower processing speeds, attention deficits, and difficulty retrieving information such as words or past events.

Adults and children aged eight or older with clinical or MRI evidence of neurological damage consistent with MS should receive an early baseline cognitive function screening. This helps medical practitioners to monitor any changes as the patient ages or as the disease progresses. Different cognitive function tests can be used for assessments, and the severity of the symptoms determines the depth of testing required.

Cognitive evaluations available online can be useful, but are not a replacement for a professional diagnosis. Avoid interpreting these results without proper expertise. Some more advanced testing technologies, like the Qr8 touch screen tech, allow self-administration with the results interpreted by healthcare providers.

To help counter cognitive function loss, activities that help improve cognition such as memory and learning activities, organizing and keeping track of information, using phone reminders are recommended. At work, an understanding employer can make adjustments to accommodate cognitive deficits while legal protections like the Americans with Disabilities Act protect the rights of those with cognitive impairments.

Collaboration with a neurologist in finding the right cognitive rehabilitation specialists is crucial to an optimal personalized plan. MS patients should have their cognitive function tested regularly, especially if functional changes are noticeable. Ongoing research is exploring if medication reducing MS lesions can also help with cognitive problems.