Which symptoms are characteristic of multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects the central nervous system, causing a range of symptoms due to the demyelination of nerve fibers. The characteristic symptoms associated with MS include heat sensitivity, bladder dysfunction, and cognitive deficits.

Heat sensitivity refers to the phenomenon where increased temperature can exacerbate symptoms, often leading to a temporary worsening of neurological function in individuals with MS. This occurs because elevated body temperature can affect the conduction of electrical impulses along demyelinated nerves.

Bladder dysfunction is another common symptom in MS. Many individuals with this condition experience issues such as urgency, frequency, or retention due to disruptions in the neural pathways that control bladder function.

Cognitive deficits are also prevalent among people with MS. This can manifest as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or slower information processing, significantly impacting daily functioning.

Other options do not encompass the hallmark symptoms associated with MS. For instance, symptoms like diffuse non-articular pain or prolonged morning stiffness are more characteristic of conditions such as fibromyalgia or inflammatory arthritis, rather than MS specifically. Therefore, the symptoms mentioned in the correct answer effectively highlight the distinct features commonly observed in multiple sclerosis.