Selma Blair’s MS Symptoms Dismissed by Doctors for Decades

Introduction to Selma Blair’s MS Journey

The world learned about Selma Blair’s multiple sclerosis diagnosis nearly seven years ago — but the autoimmune disease has been tormenting her for most of her life. The “Cruel Intentions” actress, now 52, can trace early symptoms back to her childhood, but claims doctors brushed off the red flags for decades.

Early Symptoms and Misdiagnosis

At the age of 7, Blair lost control of her bladder and use of her right eye and left leg — yet, after ruling out cancer, doctors and family branded her an attention seeker. What they missed: Juvenile MS, a debilitating disease that affects the central nervous system by disrupting the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body. “If you’re a boy with those symptoms, you get an MRI. If you’re a girl, you’re called ‘crazy’,” Blair told British Vogue in 2023.

Uncontrollable Emotions and Physical Symptoms

As a child, the “Hellboy” actress would wake up laughing uncontrollably in the middle of the night. Decades later, those laughs gave way to sudden, uncontrollable spells of sobbing. “I just thought I was a hugely emotional person,” Blair said. In reality, MS had damaged her frontal lobe — like a brain injury. It would be another 40 years until she received the diagnosis.

Diagnosis and Reaction

Selma Blair was diagnosed with MS on August 2018. Getty Images for Glamour
“I was thrilled,” Blair told People earlier this month. “I felt like people thought it had to be some tragic thing, but I was like, ‘No, you don’t understand,’” she said. “I was feeling tragic inside before.” Blair, who shares 13-year-old son Arthur with ex Jason Bleick, said she often wondered what was “wrong” with her before the diagnosis. Selma Blair with her service dog Scout at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in 2025. Getty Images

Understanding MS and Its Causes

Nearly 1 million Americans have been diagnosed with MS, according to the National MS Society. The disease can affect anyone, including children. You may be at higher risk if you’re female, between 20 and 40, and of Northern European descent, per the Cleveland Clinic. “If you’re a boy with those symptoms, you get an MRI. If you’re a girl, you’re called ‘crazy’,” Blair said. Getty Images

Risk Factors and Early Warning Signs

Doctors don’t know exactly what causes MS, but research suggests that factors like smoking, childhood obesity, low vitamin D levels and genetics could be possible triggers. Exposure to toxins like secondhand smoke and pesticides — as well as viruses such as Epstein-Barr or mono — may also increase the risk. Early warning signs of the MS include blurred vision, muscle weakness and numbness.

Managing MS Symptoms

As the disease progresses, symptoms can range from fatigue and dizziness to trouble with balance, bladder control, mood swings, muscle stiffness and cognitive issues like memory and concentration problems. Many patients experience periods of remission where signs of the disease fade. While there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups.

Current Status and Treatment

Last year, Blair revealed she suffered a major relapse after a stem cell transplant — but she’s now in remission thanks to a new provider. Her doctor — the first woman she’s ever been treated by — took a holistic approach, including factoring in the actress’s early menopause. “It really did change my life completely,” Blair said at the Women’s Health Lab panel. “We found a way to manage my MS and I am doing really, really well right now.”

Conclusion

Selma Blair’s story highlights the importance of listening to patients, especially women, and taking their symptoms seriously. It’s crucial to raise awareness about MS and its effects on individuals and families. By sharing her journey, Blair aims to help others who may be experiencing similar struggles and to encourage them to advocate for themselves in the healthcare system.

FAQs

• Q: What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
  A: MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, disrupting the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body.
• Q: What are the early warning signs of MS?
  A: Early warning signs include blurred vision, muscle weakness, numbness, fatigue, and dizziness.
• Q: How is MS diagnosed?
  A: MS is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical exams, and tests such as MRI scans.
• Q: Is there a cure for MS?
  A: While there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups.
• Q: How can I support someone with MS?
  A: Support someone with MS by being understanding, patient, and encouraging them to seek medical help and follow their treatment plan.