Symptoms of transverse myelitis typically develop over a few hours to a few days, sometimes progressing gradually over several weeks. They usually affect both sides of the body below the inflamed section of the spinal cord, though sometimes only one side is affected. Common symptoms include:-

• Weakness in arms or legs: This can range from a heavy feeling to severe weakness or complete paralysis (often starting in the legs and sometimes affecting the arms if the upper spinal cord is involved).
• Pain: Often starts as lower back pain or sharp, shooting pain that radiates down the legs or arms or around the torso. A “banding” or “girdle-like” sensation around the trunk is also common.
• Sensory Problems :-
  • Numbness, tingling, prickling, burning, or cold sensations.
  • Heightened sensitivity to touch or temperature.
  • Loss of sensation in affected areas.
• Bowel and bladder dysfunction:
  • Increased urinary urgency or frequency.
  • Difficulty holding urine (incontinence) or inability to urinate (retention).
  • Constipation or difficulty with bowel control.
• Sexual dysfunction.
• Muscle spasms and spasticity.
• Fatigue.
• Depression and anxiety.

The specific symptoms and their severity depend on which part of the spinal cord is inflamed. Inflammation in the neck (cervical spine) can cause symptoms from the neck down, while inflammation in the chest (thoracic spine) typically affects the trunk and legs.