Cognitive disorders
Cognitive processes comprise of attention, memory, and concentration. They also include the ability to interpret facts and draw conclusions for action. In the case of multiple sclerosis (MS), cognitive abilities are impaired over time in nearly half of patients.
Some concrete examples
The cognitive functions that are affected the most are information processing speed, attention and memory. But what does this mean in practice? For example, you may have trouble finding the right words to express yourself, you may lose track of a conversation. Perhaps you are accused of being less efficient at work than your colleagues or you often forget to put the washing powder in before starting the washing machine.
Some people with mulitple sclerosis report that their short- or long-term memory has deteriorated and that they feel they are no longer as mentally flexible as they used to. Temporal and spatial orientation or intelligence are generally not affected by cognitive impairment.
Typical cognitive disorders of MS:
- Reduced attention and/or ability to concentrate
- Memory problems
- Difficulty in planning and acting in a targeted manner
- Slowing down of thinking and information processing
