Unsure of what is going on...

[Peaches806]

About 5 1/2 yrs ago I had a MRI done w/o contrast related to visual changes, tremors (especially fine motor tremors with my hands more on right side than left), ringing/buzzing in my ears, and tingling in hand and feet. That MRI showed 4 small lesions to the basal ganglion. My PCP had the MRI reread by one of the top neurosurgeons in central georgia and he advised him to have me see a neorologist immediately that he was positive that this was early MS. I did see a neurologist at that time and had a massive amount of blood work done to r/o thyroid, lupus, shoguns,lead exposure, toxicology reports, etc. All were normal. As far as my past medical hx I have long hx of migraines with aura since I was 13 yrs old, MVP w/ regurgitaion, and mild spinal bifida that was not found until I was 14 yrs old from last 2 throacic vertebrae to coccyx. He told me that because the risk was too high to complete a spinal tap and that that could be inconclusive if spinal fluid were not affected at the time he could not definelty say it was MS and he could not definitely say it was not. He stated that the MRI could indicate that but did not want to repeat it with contrast. He stated that it could be associated with my migraines and placed me on topamax 100 mg daily. He stated that if it was MS it was the progressive remissive type and that until I became more symptomatic I may never be properly diagnosed. Now 5 1/2 years later I have diminished sensation to BLE, burning to plantar surface of my feet, gait changes (increased falls I have learned to fall softly), increased tremors, in the morning it takes me 20 minutes to get out of bed related to tremors and stiffness in my lower extremities, I have had bowel pattern changes, mood and memory changes, increased roaring in my ears at times, and am unable to sustain my balance properly with my eyes closed, my reflexes are dimished, I have a facial tic at times. My TSH is normal, CMP and CBC w/ diff are normal normal PAP smear, negative for fluid or vestiblular changes of my ears, negative for clots to femoral arteries. I have appt to see an different neurologist next month in hopes of a definative plan of treatment for my current condition before I further deteriorate. Could this indeed be MS as suspected almost 6 years ago or what else could it be? I am 31 yrs old with 3 boys on top of that I am a nurse who loves what she does and doesn't want to have to sit by on the disablilty list if I can help it. We are hoping to have and MRI with contrast completed prior to my visit with neuro next month - please advise.

[dragonfly371]

I have watched my health go for 5 yrs. now from feeling 20 to now 80.e drs. all believe auto immune dis. 3 agree M.S. but untill full blown test will show neg. my mother had it my sister has it my immune system in the mean while is attacking my vital organs now lost gall bladder, now on meds to prevent kidney failure. have IBS. I work in a factory 10 hrs on feet lifting it is going to kill me. but without a diagnoses I cant apply for Dissability. I have3 kids would like to plan ahead also have pre cancer colon ,intestines
Llg place on rt kidney watching for a yr. and this Mo. it just was gone (yeah) b.ut have order for ct of abdomen and pelvic area. I am Tired I just want a diagnoses

[sllowe]

HI Peaches,

Welcome to the MS forum.  I'm glad you found us.  But, I'm sorry for all you are going through.  

I am happy to hear though that you will see a new Neuro next month.  You mention getting MRIs before this appt. Who would order those? Though anyone would be anxious to bring MRI results to a neuro - it might be best for this Dr. to order them.  Many of your sx do sound MSey to me.  But there are so many mimics.  

Your past Dr. should not have hung dx on spinal tap results (lack of).  But, good thing is you are moving on from there...  

You've given us a good history, but if you can, just break it up a little bit and put it in order before you go to the Dr.  Timelines are very handy for you and the Dr.  Peek at our health pages (located at the right hand corner of the page).  Timelines are in there and if you need help, please hollar.  

Until then, I hope you find some comfort and support here with us,

See you around,
shell