Which of the following is NOT a typical symptom of MS?

• A. Visual problems
• B. Fatigue
• C. Hearing loss
• D. Cognitive changes

Answer: (C)

MS affects central nervous system white matter, so the symptoms reflect disruption of pathways involved in vision, movement, sensation, and higher-level processing. Visual problems from optic neuritis are a classic early sign, and fatigue is one of the most frequent complaints. Cognitive changes—such as slowed processing or memory difficulties—also occur as networks involved in attention and executive function are impacted. Hearing loss, on the other hand, is not a typical feature because the auditory pathways are not commonly targeted by MS lesions. While rare brainstem involvement could theoretically affect hearing, it is not a usual presenting symptom. So hearing loss is not a typical symptom of MS.