Approximately 34-65% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are confronted with cognitive problems sooner or later. These include problems with the speed of information processing, memory, attention and executive functioning. Cognitive problems in patients with MS are currently often not examined on a routine basis and therefore remain unrecognised, or are not recognised in time. This may have a negative impact on their work and lead to social problems. In this article, we talk about the importance of early recognition of cognitive problems in patients with MS. Routine questioning about cognitive problems and the use of a short screening test are first steps in the right direction.